Ana Carolina Vieira and Rodolfo Vieira
One blue belt athlete who took runner-up in her division on day one of the WPJJ Trials competition in Gramado was the focus of special attention from the media.
Ana Carolina had five matches, won four and got the tapout in three.
Her hopes at winning the gold medal ended at Monique Elias in the under-63 kg final.
Even despite her solid campaign and a spot in Sunday’s absolute division, which could net her an all-expenses-paid trip to the main event in Abu Dhabi this April, what caused the cameras and microphones to turn towards the 18-year-old from Rio de Janeiro was her last name.
Ana Carolina bears the family name Vieira, the same as Rodolfo, the current kingpin of the gentle art.
While her famous sibling barked instructions at her from the crowd, reveled in her joy and comforted her in her disappointment, the spotlight was fixed on Ana.
In a GRACIEMAG.com interview, with her brother by her side, Carol addressed her big-name brother, broke down her performance and promised to strive for better results.
Her faithful sidekick Rodolfo assessed his sister’s strengths and guaranteed that she has much more to offer in the future.
