22.10.2009 II GB South Cal Classic a hitCheck out the best of the championship in Irvine
Text and photos by Deb Blyth
Over the October
17th weekend, Irvine Valley College was the scene of the 2nd Annual
Gracie Barra So-Cal Classic Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Tournament (BJJ) and
3rd GB CompNet event. Part of Gracie Barra’s mission statement is to
train the body and spirit, and go beyond the “winning-losing”
philosophy. The tournament is an opportunity for GB students to test
themselves and their skills in an environment of family spirit and fun.
Their moto, “organized like a team; fighting like a family” was evident
as competitors from over 30 GB schools in Southern California gathered
for two days to compete in Gi and No Gi matches.
  
Lots of kids
competed this year and they showed the best of sportsmanship and good
will. Spectators had a chance to see these future champions of BJJ
compete and they put on a great show!   The
homage to Master Carlos Gracie Junior was, for many of the professors,
the best part of the event. Here is what Master Carlos had to say:
"It's amazing to see what is happening here today. Without the best
effort of Gracie Barra students, instructors and professors, none of
this would be possible."      Many women competed on the mats
this year as well, and the skill level and size of the
women’s program increased. In the men’s categories, it was evident that
the competitors’ skill levels had improved: many GB competitors who
competed in the two previous GB tournaments started as rookies and are
now top level athletes in some of the most prestigious BJJ tournaments,
including the Pan Ams and Worlds. Once again, they did not
disappoint.
The GB tournament was a great
opportunity to showcase BJJ and the GB lifestyle to spectators, family
members and friends of students who had a chance to feel the GB family
spirit in action. The two days marked teamwork, friendship, good
sportsmanship and BJJ at its highest level of excellence.  
|
