This is an opportunity to learn from a fourth-degree black belt while working on the parts of your game that need the most focus. Spend time not just in training, but also socializing with top-notch Jiu-Jitsu players – hearing their thoughts on training, technique, conditioning – and having fun at the same time. And all of this in Point Lookout Resort, a 400-acre mountainside retreat tucked along the Maine coast, in Northport.

For more information and to sign-up, click here.

At the 2009 Worlds, in a photo by John Lamonica

Livened up with beer and finger food, samba fills the air at the Azeitona & Cia bar in Leblon, Rio de Janeiro’s upscale neighborhood. One customer asks only for water, though, and, when she feels the urge to eat, gets the waiter to bring her some crackers with gorgonzola cheese.

It is Kyra Gracie, who made the most of her encounter with the GRACIEMAG.com reporter to recount how the waning moments of 2009 went and what her plans are for 2010. In terms of competition, she should only be back for the Worlds. But that doesn’t mean she’ll be taking rest.

“I spent New Year’s in Fortaleza, and it was the best one of my life. I went several beaches, with Cumbuco standing out for its dunes and dune buggy rides that were like a roller coaster,” she said.

Kyra with boyfriend Leo Leite, on the beaches of Ceara. Photo: Personal archive

“The plan is to take a break from championships, and come back strong for the Worlds, in June. But my agenda isn’t empty. I’m teaching the gang at a social project in Vargem Grande, where Combate TV channel went and did a really cool show. It should be broadcast on the 21^st.”

Kyra’s latest project, however, is a Jiu-Jitsu camp exclusively for ladies, which has been sought after by students from all around the globe.

The camp shall take place in Rio de Janeiro from February 24 to March 3, and the champion is already excited about it.

“It’s my first camp and if all goes well we’ll organize one a year. Everything will be included for the girls and they’ll train with me every day. We put together a program for them to get to know the whole city, even the touristic parts like Sugarloaf mountain and the samba schools, beaches, Pedra da Gavea mountain and even boxing lessons for anyone who feels like it. I’m psyched, it’ll be real fun,” she said.

Places are limited. Greater information can be obtained via email: graciekyra@gmail.com or at the www.graciekyra.com website.

Kyra at the 2009 Worlds, in a photo by John Lamonica

The ladies who wish to brush up on their ground fighting technique shall have the opportunity to learn from one of those who know best over an entire week. Kyra Gracie will hold a Jiu-Jitsu camp between the 24^th of February and the 3^rd of March, in Rio de Janeiro.

In the eight-day training program, the timetable will be intense and varied. Kyra’s camp is restricted to women, and those to sign up will have access to an interesting set of activities:

– A private lesson with Kyra and two more semi-private classes;

– Board at a hotel in the Barra borough of Rio de Janeiro;

– Breakfast included every day;

– Tourism excursions to Sugar Loaf and Corcovado;

– Boxing at Nobre Arte;

– Natural gymnastics class on the beach;

– Hike up Gávea Mountain

– Transport to all activities included, as well as to airport (to and from).

Not to mention, of course, lots of Jiu-Jitsu training. To secure your place, email the fighter at graciekyra@gmail.com

Greater information on the website: Graciekyra.com.br

Royler in Rio. Photo: Gustavo Aragão

If you don’t yet have plans for January, Master Royler Gracie invites you to get immersed in the Jiu-Jitsu lifestyle in Rio, at Gracie Humaita Jiu-Jitsu camp.

The camp will be held from the 9th to the 17th of January, 2010. Provided below is the complete program designed by Royler. His official webiste is www.roylergracie.com, and his twitter is @RoylerGracie.

Package includes:

•       2 – 3 Classes per day (at least one private class every day exclusive for Jiu-Jitsu Camp participants)

•       2 Boxing Classes per week at Nobre Arte School (exclusive for Jiu-Jitsu Camp participants) – only techniques, no sparring

•       2 Ginástica Natural Classes (exclusive for Jiu-Jitsu Camp participants)

•       Housing in 4-Star Hotel for 9 days.

•       2 meals per day included.

•       Transportation to all activities and in/out of airport.

•       Sightseeing at Corcovado (Christ Statue), Pão de Açucar (Sugar Loaf), Barra Beach, shoppings malls and Maracanã Stadium with a bilingual guide.

•       Boat trip to Cagaras Island

•       Pedra Bonita Trekking

•       Samba School Visit

•       Night Clubs

•       Visit to secluded beaches

Further info: www.jiujitsucamp.com and e-mail: contact@jiujitsucamp.com.