Day 1 of the 2016 European championship

The 2016 European championship opened this wednesday, Jan. 20, at the state-of-the-art Pavilhão Multiusos de Odivelas.

White belts and blue belts took to the 10 mats to display their skills and passion for Jiu-Jitsu.

As the newcomers gave their all, Professors like Braulio and Victor Estima, Roger Gracie, among others, coached from the black belt area.

Day 1 spammed for over 10 hours of Jiu-Jitsu before lights out.

Day 2 kicks off at 9AM (Lisbon time) this Thursday.

It will feature the remainder of the adult blue belt divisions and the purple belt division, including the male and female open classes for both belt colors.

For more info, go to ibjjf.org.

Coverage brought to you by Gameness.

Here is a quick photo gallery of day 1.

The pupils of black belt Zaid Mirza conquered nine medals on the mats, breaking the record of Middle East countries in the tournament.

“We took a big team this year and we were able to achieve amazing results.  We finished our preparation in lisbon’s Gracie Barra with instructor Kiko da Silva wich was great for the team.  Gave them a gerat deal of confidence.” says a proud Mirza.