journeyjjbluebelt

2^nd Stripe and 2012 The Gracie Tournament Experience

The Tournament was mostly higher belts and no white belts.  This tournament  has some similarities to kata, but more practical in regards to immediate self-defense.  There were half as many people from the year before. With higher belts, it means harder competition.  No one from last year made it into the third round except for a youth contestant.  No one was able do the Haymaker defense correctly.   A purple belt won the event.

First off, I had a great time; even though I failed in my goal to get past the 1st round, but I did get another stripe.  Sadly, with my second stripe, I can visibly see the passing of time.

As per my January goals, I wanted to make it into the second round. I think I was close.  Unfortunately, they don’t give out the evaluation; however,  I will request  feed back. I’ll let you know how that goes.

Before the match, purple belt, Robert, gave some quick tips.  Take your time in the move.  This would allow me to be more thoughtful in the all the details.  Make sure not to throw anyone which would be an automatic point deduction.  On the other hand, Oggie, another purple belt I trained with, went full speed.  Oggie made it into the third round.  Some of the black belt judges were the guys that had taught us the techniques.

Final message, Pedro and Gui both emphasized the importance of not changing the self-defense teachings of Master Helio Gracie.  This means by not changing the teachings of Helio, Helio Gracie Jiu Jitsu will be preserved for the next generation.  I couldn’t agree more.