INTERVIEW W/ ANDY WANG (TAIWAN BJJ)

This past weekend Andy took a moment to speak with us about what he's been up to and commented on the progress that BJJ has made in the area in the last 4-5 years since he first came to teach. Having spent the last couple of months in Taipei guest teaching at Taiwan BJJ, he is planning on heading back to the US to continue his training and MMA career. Andy's team had a great performance this weekend, taking 2nd in the gi and 1st in the no-gi. -Luke

COPA DE HONG KONG: GI RESULTS

Here are the results for the gi-day. Again, please inform me if there are any mis-spellings or corrections needed to be made.-Luke

WHITE-BELT
GAIO
1. Kwong (GB HK)

PLUMA (adult)
1. Robert Lucas (Shanghai BJJ)
2. Danilo (Macau BJJ)
3. Delfino (Macau BJJ)

PLUMA (senior)
1. Tiago (Macau BJJ)
2. Gus (KLN)

LEVE (adult)
1. Demitri Telfair (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Douglas Pieterse (BTT HK)
3. Kyle Belzer (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Donaldo Tong (GB HK)

LEVE (master)
1. Alexandro Esteves (Purebred)
2. Shiloong (GB HK)

MEDIO (adult)
1. Francois Lamothe Charlebois (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Luiz (Macau BJJ)
3. Oliver Hayakawa (Shanghai BJJ)

MEDIO (master)
1. Leo2 (KLN)
2. Danny (Impakt)

MEDIO (senior)
1. Charbel (Macau BJJ)
2. Danny (Impakt)

MEIO PESADO (adult)
1. Bryan (Macau BJJ)

MEIO PESADO (master)
1. Mike Kwok (BTT HK)
2. Robert Zen Berimbau (BTT HK)

PESADO (master)
1. Jan (GB HK)
2. Forrest (KLN)

SUPER PESADO (adult)
1. Chris Munro (GB HK)
2. Stanley Szeto (BTT HK)

SUPER PESADO (master)
1. Stanley Szeto (BTT HK)

ABSOLUTO (~76KG)
1. Demitri Telfair (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Mike Kwok (BTT HK)
3. Min (KLN)
3. Kyle Belzer (Taiwan BJJ)

ABSOLUTO (76.1KG~)
1. Luis (Macau BJJ)
2. Bryan (Macau BJJ)
3. Victor (KLN)
3. Nicholas Young (Taiwan BJJ)

BLUE-BELT
GAIO (adult)
1. Lee (KLN)
2. Leo1 (KLN)

GAIO (master)
1. Leo1 (KLN)

PLUMA
1. Kimihiro Hirose (NEX)
2. San Su Li (Trust)
3. Dennis Huang (Taiwan BJJ)

PENA (adult)
1. Yoshihiro Hara (KLN)
2. Donnly (KLN)
3. Stanley Tam (Shanghai BJJ)
3. Isaac Chang (Taiwan BJJ)

PENA (master)
1. Stanley Tam (Shanghai BJJ)
2. Donnly (KLN)

LEVE (adult)
1. Benny (KLN)
2. Hoin (KLN)

LEVE (master)
1. Kazuyuki Takase (KLN)
2. Justin Meinhardt (BTT HK)

MEDIO (adult)
1. Warren Wang (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Justin Lee (Taiwan BJJ)

MEDIO (master)
1. Warren Wang (Taiwan BJJ)

MEDIO (senior)
1. Mark Simmerman (EMAC)

MEIO PESADO (adult)
1. Ryan Meichiano (Shanghai BJJ)

MEIO PESADO (master)
1. Sebastien Desvignes (EMAC)
2. David Sinclair (Taiwan BJJ)

PESADO
1. Jon Jones (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Luke Chaya (EMAC)

SUPER PESADO (mix)
1. Dean Tompson (BTT HK)
2. Pat (Macau BJJ)

ABSOLUTO (~76KG)
1. Benny (KLN)
2. Hoin (KLN)
3. Lee (Trust)
3. Dennis Huang (Taiwan)

ABSOLUTO (76.1KG~)
1. Vaugh Boyd Anderson (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Jon Jones (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Mark Simmerman (EMAC)
3. Pat (Macau BJJ)

PURPLE-BELT
LEVE
1. Ralph Go (New Breed)
2. Brad Ku (KLN)

MEIO PESADO
1. Shotarou Suzuki (Paraestra Tokyo)

SUPER PESADO (master)
1. Ali Sulit (New Breed)

ABSOLUTO
1. Ali Sulit (New Breed)
2. Dimitrios Tsitos (Shanghai BJJ)
3. Ralph Go (New Breed)

FEMALE-ABSOLUTO
1. Soici (KLN)
2. Liz Law (BTT HK)
3. Aki (KLN)

BLACK-BELT ABSOLUTO
1. Andre Galvao (Brasa)
2. Eduardo Telles (Nine Nine)
3. Xandinho Izidro (BTT HK)

COPA DE HONG KONG: NO-GI RESULTS

Here are the results for the no-gi, April 28, 2008. If there are any mis-spellings or errors please let me know and I will make the correction. -Luke

No GI Advance Under 65kg
1. Lawrance Law (KLN BJJ)
2. Lee (KLN BJJ)
3. Kai Huang (Taiwan BJJ)

No GI Norvice Under 75kg
1. Demitri Telfar (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Shiloong (GB)
3. Richard Clavy (GB HK)
3. Alexandro Esteves (Purebred/Loyd Irvin)

No GI Advance Under 75kg
1. Makoto Aramaki (KLN BJJ)
2. Ralph Go (New Breed)
3. Issac Chang (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Hoin (KLN BJJ)

No GI Novice under 85kg
1. Nicholas Young (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Luis (Macau BJJ)
3. Leo2 "Karagi" (KLN BJJ)
3. Robert Zen Berimbau (BTT HK)

No GI Advance under 85kg
1. Vaugh Boyd Anderson (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Sebastian Desvignes (EMAC)
3. Kensaku Kojima (TRUST Jiujitsu)

No GI Novice over 85.1kg
1. Forrest (KLN BJJ)
2. Mike Kwok (BTT HK)
3. Well Wang (Taiwan BJJ)

No GI Advance over 85.1kg
1. Dimitrios Tsitos (Shanghai BJJ)
2. Ali (New Breed)
3. Francis Magbitang (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Patrick (Taiwan BJJ)

No GI Absolute Novice under 75kg
1. Demitri Telfar (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Ming (KLN BJJ)

No GI Absolute Advance under 75kg
1. James AKA "Koji" (Academia Az)
2. Lawrance Law (KLN BJJ)
3. Leo1 (KLN BJJ)
3. Kai Huang (Taiwan BJJ)

No GI Absolute Novice over 75.1kg
1. Kurt Scholtes (Taiwan BJJ)
2. Ryan (KLN BJJ)
3. Well Wang (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Graham Ravdin (BTT HK)

No GI Absolute Advance over 75.1kg
1. Dimitrios Tsitos (Shanghai BJJ)
2. Vaugh Boyd Anderson (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Jon Jones (Taiwan BJJ)
3. Sebastian Desvignes (EMAC)

COPA DE HONG KONG RECAP (PART II)

APRIL 28, 2008Starting the second day early with weigh-ins I treated myself to a classic HK breakfast of noodles, fried egg, toast and what looked like a grilled slice of ham. The turn out for no-gi was smaller than the day before but from what I could see the same core group of competitors that were placing showed up. With the look on some of the faces I'm sure there were a few that stayed out a bit late so things didn't pick up to a little later than schedule. This time out, I decided to use a little more discretion with taking pictures and focused on my matches. The knee was feeling tight but I could roll without too much discomfort. With some added wrappings and knee-pads, I was good to go.With the brackets being smaller, it was separated between 'novice' and 'advance'. The latter consisting mostly of blue-belts and up so it definitely had a wider spectrum of skill but I think overall it matched up well. I kid you not, this day was all about guillotines and ankle-locks. There were a few triangles here and there but the footwork seem to take center stage when it came to the subs. I can vouch as I got tapped in my second match in the absolute to an ankle-lock. I'd say I'm lucky that I return home with just one injury and not two, haha. The matches were fast and intense as there wasn't much stalling and people were really going all out for the tap. Despite my knee, I felt really good about my performances and probably had more fun competing this day than the previous. I think by this point I had relaxed enough about injury and just decided to put it all out there.The rules were a definite factor as they hadn't really been defined until just prior to the event starting. I give a lot of credit to Mark 'Vesuvius' Simmerman for leading the meeting as one of the few in the area that have taken the referee course. Having done so at the recent Pan Ams, he's been a great resource for understanding the details that in many cases define who won the match. He's been very vocal about the importance being aware of the rules related to each event for the success and the safety of the fighters. I hope to see this as a growing trend as we all take responsibility for ourselves and each other.

SEMINARAs the day came to a close many would have to leave in order to return home in time for work on Monday but a decent number were able to stay for the seminar held by Eduardo Telles and Andre Galvao. The seminar was all about gi and gave the finer details of the final black-belt match on Saturday. The one move that everyone wanted to hear about was Galvao's reverse-ezekiel that won him the match over Telles. A funny thing about the seminar was that Makoto Ikuta was there with a whole series of questions for Galvao, having lost to him the previous night. Really nice guy but at one point Galvao jokingly told Ikuta that he would have to pay for a private with all the questions he had for him. Just watching Ikuta at the seminar you could see light-bulb after light-bulb over his head as Galvao went through the sequence of moves. With just a few minutes left, everyone formed two lines to have their asses kicked by the two instructors. I opted to watch and take pics as you can see in the pics.

To be honest, I think at that point I was a little overwhelmed with all things jiu-jitsu. For two days of fighting, taking pics, interviews and jiu-jitsu talk my brain couldn't retain any more. I come back and think of it as a jiu-jits fantasy weekend, haha. With a little business to take care the next day I could afford to head out for some beers and hang out with the other stragglers before the week would start.I made a lot of new friends this trip and got a lot of positive feedback for the blog. Not too many people know what I look like so it's a bit funny to be recognized for this geeky thing I do. Some tell me I offer them an office distraction and perhaps this is my own. Just want to thank everyone for their support and readership. Some of you may have noticed that Andy Wang is in some of the photos I took. He's been in Taipei teaching at his academy for the last couple of months and is heading back to the US. I got to speak with him for a few minutes and will post my video interview late this week.

Other than that, a congratulations to the organizers and competitors. I'll see you at the next one.

picture links:
DAY 2: NO-GI
DAY 2: EDUARDO TELLES + ANDRE GALVAO SEMINAR

-Luke

ARTICLE: MACAU DAILY TIMES

Sara Farr, a Macau BJJ representative, was kind enough to share the article she had written for the Macau Daily Times on this weekend's tournament. Check out the link: HERE

It's great to hear BJJ getting press and that more women are taking an interest in the sport. I hope to see the number of female competitors grow as there's a lot of talent out there.

***note: The only flying-armbar (and a successful one mind you) was accomplished be a female competitor this past weekend.

-Luke

COPA DE HONG KONG: PHOTO HILITES

OK, so from about 1000 pics I grouped and edited them down to 4 sets. You're more than welcome to check out my photos on my flickr account and if you want to use them go right ahead, just be sure to give me some credit as photographer. There are a lot of actions shots so be sure to check them out. -Luke

picture links:
DAY 1: GI
DAY 1: BLACK-BELT ABSOLUTE

COPA DE HONG KONG RECAP (PART 1)

A seriously intense jiu-jitsu weekend as I mentioned before with not just the tournament but a black-belt division for a $2,000 purse and a seminar with Eduardo Telles and Andre Galvao to top it off. A congratulations is in order to the Hong Kong/Kowloon guys that put this event together. Also to everyone who competed and the teams that came to support, it was a great turnout. I believe we had competitors from all the major areas; Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Singapore, Phillipines, Thailand, Shanghai, Japan and Brazil. Events like this are a real testament to the growth of BJJ in Southeast Asia and it was a pleasure to be there and take part. Now for the recap.

APRIL 27, 2008 (GI)Having arrived late the night before I got to the event rather early in hopes of making it the 88 kilos division but with my gi I came in at 90 kilos. Regardless, I felt good and was ready to compete. I learned a hard lesson this weekend as it was my first tournament where I came to compete in addition to reporting and taking pictures for the blog. Because of this, I realized my focus was split and had missed my opportunity to warm-up properly and get mentally ready for my first match. So when my name was called, I was busy taking pictures of other people and had to rush to put on my gi. So in the process of my first match, I came in cold and midway through I heard a pop in my knee as I took on my opponent's weight over my shin. I was able to finish the match but was really nervous as to what extent I had hurt myself. I figured I was good enough for that day and continued to fight three more matches. It's entirely my fault for not being prepared and giving respect to why I was there, which was to compete. At the same time, I can't take anything away from my opponents that day as they were all tough as hell. I believe the outcome would be the same, regardless of my knee. A big thanks to you guys cause I come back home with a lot on my plate to improve upon and even more hungry to train and improve. I learned a lot this weekend and had a blast rolling with you guys.

The heavier divisions had fewer fighters but all of which brought out monsters and it was a nice contrast to the speed and technical matches in the lighter divisions. I'm starting to see a stronger body of blue-belts in all weights that will soon be the future purples and browns. The teams with the larger number of competitors were Kowloon BJJ, JAB (BTT), Taiwan BJJ and Macau BJJ. I don't know where it comes from but I have this weird perception of myself not being a big-heavy guy but normal. So it surprises me when people tell me how much pressure I give or how heavy I feel when I play my top game. I guess in my mind's eye, I'm the pluma stuck in a pesado's body, hahaha. With that said, I really get into the lighter-weight matches and in some weird way, I see myself. Now whether that's how I actually look and play on the mat is a different thing but we all have our own way of visualizing BJJ.

The day ran relatively smoothly and outside of the bathroom issues, I think the space was able to accommodate the number of competitors. There were three mat spaces which was a bit of a squeeze but then it may for things moving faster than had it been two. There were only a few cases where there some bad overlaps but the refs took to safe-guarding the players. I think that's an important element to the refs and they're another group that deserve thanks and respect. It's one thing to represent the rules and fair play but it's also the ref's responsibility to protect the fighters. I can't stress enough how the quality of jiu-jitsu, events and reffing need to improve parallel to each other. Imbalance will only stagnate the growth, get players hurt and turn people off.

Before the the medals were give out, the hilight of the gi-day was the black-belt open weight division for the $2,000 purse. Competing were; Eduardo Telles (Nine Nine), Andre Galvao (Brasa), Pedro Schmall (Beijing BJJ), Tony Eduardo Lima (Ralph Gracie), Makoto Aramaki (Kowloon BJJ), Makoto Ikuta (Trust Jiu-Jitsu) and Xandinho Izidro (JAB/BTT).
BLACK-BELT OPEN DIVISION

ROUND 1:

Tony Eduardo Lima vs. Eduardo TellesThe first match was between Tony Eduardo Lima and Eduardo Telles. My memory is a little sketchy since I was busier looking for the shot but Telles won this one by choke. By the way, if anyone has video of these matches PLEASE SEND THEM TO ME OR SHARE THE YOUTUBE LINK SO THAT I CAN POST.

Xandinho Izidro vs. Makoto AramakiThe second match was between Xandinho and Aramaki. Xandinho spent most of his time on top working for the pass as Aramaki favored the half-guard. Wanting to stay on his back, Aramaki kept to the floor but this one went the distance and Xindinho won by points.

Andre Galvao vs. Makoto IkutaThe third match was between Andre Galvao and Makoto Ikuta. This match I was definitely looking forward to watching since Ikuta won his weight division in last years Japan Open. From the get go, Ikuta ran from one end of the mat at full speed into Galvao to pull guard. If you haven't seen him do this before, it was a definite surprise for the spectators. Ikuta played a great game from guard and gave what looked like a hard time to Galvao for the pass. The size difference was significant but the exchange was fast and exciting. Galvao finished with a paper-cutter choke from inside Ikuta's half-guard. ***Side note: No one has passed Ikuta's guard since he was a blue-belt.

SEMI-FINALS:

Eduardo Telles vs. Xandinho IzidroTelles played his game with Xandinho working for the pass but making sure to keep this distance from Telles' grips. There were some near misses and strong take-down attempts from Telles before he was able to settle under Xandinho and work to win by armbar.

Pedro Schmall vs. Andre GalvaoPedro got the by on this one to fight Andre in the semi. Physically it looked to be a good match up as the first half of the match showed. Andre pulled guard early on with Pedro working the pass. Several submission attempts from Andre on his back but Pedro kept his shape and pressure. Eventually, it looked as though Pedro was gassing and Andre was right there to pick it up. Several flips later and going the distance, Andre would take it.

FINALS: Eduardo Telles vs. Andre GalvaoThere was a break for the competitors to relax before the final between these two friends but there was not mistake this would be a war. Telles immediately began working his turtle-guard against Galvao. The exchange was back and forth but with Telles gripping Galvao's leg from the turtle, stepping behind and jumping back for the sweep, Galvao kept an underhook to secure a reverse ezekiel. Telles fought but it was clear how tight Galvao had it and there was no way he'd let go. Taking the win and submitting his former teacher, Galvao couldn't be happier. Telles, disappointed but still smiling gave the credit to this friend and both received a huge applause from the crowd.

An amazing display by all the competitors.

BACK HOME!

Just got back from Hong Kong as I decided to leave late Monday which turned out to be a good decision since today was a mixture of hangover + tournament-aches. It was seriously a great jiu-jitsu weekend and a lot of strong performances, BJJ celebs, friends and good times. I took nearly 1000 pictures this weekend and will be uploading those as soon as I can.

Let me sleep and I'll write a nice recap tomorrow.

A big congratulations to the everyone who competed and came to support. I wish I could attend more tournaments and events but it's obvious from this weekend that the level of jiu-jitsu is just getting higher and higher.

-Luke

FABIO GURGEL

photo from: http://www.aliciaphotos.com/
I haven't been posting much this week but I have a little treat for everyone. It's not too often that I get to interview guests in person and most of the time it's done via e-mail. Here I had the unique opportunity to chat with Prof. Fabio Gurgel about his performance at the Pan Ams in addition to winning the team title. With 10 hours between us, me in Bangkok and he in Sao Paulo there was a slight lag in the response to the questions but for the sake of authenticity, I kept things unchanged. A big thank you to Prof. Gurgel for taking the time to speak with us and also to Danny for getting me in touch with 'The General'. -Luke

BJJ-ASIA:

First I want to thank you for making the time to chat with us. For those that are new to bjj, could you share with us a bit of your history?

Fabio Gurgel:

no problem it is a pleasure

BJJ-ASIA:

How you got started in bjj and under who? When did you get your black-belt, etc.

Fabio Gurgel:

i started when i was 13, with Toninho a old guy from gracie school, aftera few months of trainning the academy closed and Imoved to Jacar´'s academy where I stay until today and hope forever

Fabio Gurgel:

I got my belt when I was 19

BJJ-ASIA:

You're a very decorated competitor and have instructed a number of top level fighters as well. Even so, you still look to compete. I also wanted to congratulate you on your performance at the Pan Ams both as a competitor and for winning the team title with Alliance. Could you share your experience competing recently?

Fabio Gurgel:

Yes, Actually competitions is the most funny part of the game, rsrsr I do because I like and not to prove anything to anyone, I already reached all the titles in BJJ but it doesn't mean anything, when new competition is coming the challenge make me exciting, that is why I'm still there

BJJ-ASIA:

That's great to hear.

Fabio Gurgel:

thanks, tha alliance victory was very important to me

BJJ-ASIA:

So what was the preparation like for the Pan Ams? For yourself + your team?

Fabio Gurgel:

me and jacaré are working very hard to rebuild the team after our split in 2002, and now I can say we did it

BJJ-ASIA:

I'm sure it hasn't been easy but it seems to be a common thing in BJJ as the community grows larger.

Fabio Gurgel:

my self just follow th team preparation, I do what I think will be the best for everybody, the results are consequence of the hard work

BJJ-ASIA:

I assume you'll go into the Mundials with the same attitude then. Could you comment on any of your students performances during the Pan Ams?

Fabio Gurgel:

yes now a days is very commmon but back there was a big surprise and we got very desapointed, but it tough us a lot to trebuild the team even stronger

BJJ-ASIA:

Even so, I think Alliance has shown to be one of the strongest teams competing and consistently so in the past year

BJJ-ASIA:

Were there any hilight matches that you saw at the Pan Ams?

Fabio Gurgel:

Yes our team goes to mundial with the full force, the preformance that I like most was the Brown belts , they foght very good and we got medals in all divisions

BJJ-ASIA:

I hear from friends that attended that one of the hilight matches was between Chris Moriarty and Krong Gracie. Any comment on this one?

Fabio Gurgel:

many, but I guess Kron was the one that surprised everybody, all his matches were awesome

BJJ-ASIA:

What do you see that separates him from other competitors? Do you see it as natural ability?

Fabio Gurgel:

Crhis is our student and a very tough guy and good athlete but he did a mistake and Kron was there, the fight was very quicly, but I believe that Chris is one that has a chance to beat Kron in the future

BJJ-ASIA:

Chris has also had an amazing competition season as well so I know there was a lot of excitement going into this match.

Fabio Gurgel:

Natural Ability? I prefer to believe that he trains a lot since he was a child, and he has a very good master, telling him what he need to do, giving him 100% of his attention

BJJ-ASIA:

As an instructor, what do you see as the most important aspects to your students development?

BJJ-ASIA:

Being and good fighter and instructor do not always go hand in hand but you've managed to excel at both.

Fabio Gurgel:

I think that the competitor must trainning very hard and cover all the aspects of the fight, including technical part, condition and mind control and of course when time is run believe in themselfs

BJJ-ASIA:

Do you have any words of advice for those here in Southeast Asia just starting BJJ?

Fabio Gurgel:

The think is I paid a lot of attention to understand what jiu jitsu is all about since I was a 13 year old kid, I had a good performance is my carrer maybe because i understood and as a teacher Jacaré told me everything how should I run the academy and take care of my students to make a unit force, it what I'm trying to do

BJJ-ASIA:

I don't want to take too much of your time since I know you must be busy. Do you have any last comments to share with the BJJ community here in Southeast Asia?

Fabio Gurgel:

My advice to the begginers is to they try to undestand the game, what are they doing and what for, the jiu jitsu must be an inteligent art, and of course they must have fun when practicing

Fabio Gurgel:

I'm glad to see jiu jitsu growing all over the world, when I started it is small even in Rio de Janeiro, I hope in the next future see with my own eyes the growing there in southeast Asia and if I can help this development in anyway would be a pleasure, my academy is also open for foregners and all praticioners form Asia: 21:33:49

Again, I want to thank you for taking the time to chat with us. I'm sure I can speak for the community that we hope to see you here in Asia soon.

Fabio Gurgel:

All right Luke it was a pleasure chat with you

BJJ-ASIA:

Best of luck to Alliance in the upcoming Mundials this June

Fabio Gurgel:

thanks

Fabio Gurgel:

bye

BJJ-ASIA:

bye

BUTTERFLIES

With the upcoming tournament this weekend, I thought I'd write a bit on what I've experienced from my first time on the mat to where I am now. Not to say that I've got it all figured out, far from it. What I'd like to make comment on is the process of taking these experiences and how they effect the future. One of the attractive elements of jiu-jitsu for me is that when you're in it, there's nothing else but that moment. At the same time, that moment is an expression of all those hours spent on the mat training. Sometimes it pans out and other times it's a platform for reflection and improvement.

The first time I had competed I was so nervous that I felt my stomach was going to drop to the floor and my hands were shaking. As soon as the ref said go my body tensed up as we fought for grips and both my shoulders and legs locked. Imagine going in for a single-leg with your back and legs completely straight. Basically it was 4 minutes of standing as the other guy was a newbie as well. We were warned several times to take action and if he hadn't of pulled guard, we probably would have stood for the entire match. Anyways I won by passing his guard but attribute it more to his inability to move than my skill at the time. The entire match, I couldn't hear a damn thing. As if all my senses had been shut down and the only that that would register was what was right in front of me, complete tunnel vision. Afterwards, both my hands locked up into a claw and my forearms were way over stressed. My second match that day it was more of the same but this time we spent more time grappling than standing. I had done better to defend but got stuck at open-guard and gave my opponent time to set up his pass. I had lost. I found myself in a position that I didn't understand or wasn't prepared for.

With each following match, would come small victories but just as many mistakes and shortcomings. It's a process that I've learn to accept. The point is to not give up.

Since then, I have competed in roughly 5-6 tournaments which is not a big number but considering the circumstances, I take what I can get. With each match, my nerves get a little better and I can hear more clearly my teammates coaching me from the sidelines. Slowly, I can recall more and more from my matches without too much help from video. I'm more relaxed and am doing a better job of breathing. I wouldn't be able to make this kind of progress without taking what I've learned, applying it to my training and getting back on the mat to compete. For most of us here in SEA, the amount of comp experience can vary but most may have to settle with 1-2 tournaments a year while in other parts of the globe, a comp can be found every month. I heard in Japan there is a monthly tournament just for white-belts. What a great idea.

Outside of learning from your mistakes and improving your technique or fitness it is also about being comfortable in the competition environment. There you are in front of everyone watching, screaming and rooting for you to fail or succeed. For some the anxiety is too much while for others it's a rush. When I think about the environment of competition, it reminds me of my experience as a swimmer. Prior to BJJ, the only sport I had ever dedicated myself to was swimming. I had done it for 10+ years winning state titles, broke some local records and placed nationally. Towards the end of my swimming career, all the anxiety and nervousness was at a level that I could control or be comfortable with. If anything, just being familiar with those feelings and to know it's a part of the experience made it that much easier to just relax and focus on the task at hand. I even had my own little breathing ritual before each race as our names were called to the starting-block.

So now I find myself having to go through the very same process with BJJ, gathering my experiences and finding that comfort zone on the mat. Granted, I am now faced with an opponent that wants to armbar or choke me. A far cry from just me and the water, haha. I know there are a lot of guys that don't have any interest to compete but I do think it's an aspect of BJJ that should be given some attention. At whatever level, I think it's important to put yourself through that stress/pressure of applying what you know against an opponent. And I mean this outside of your regular training in class. So much changes when it's not just a part of your daily class training. In class I can see a guy trying to be Leo Viera with all these flips and acrobatics but come the tournament, their game becomes so conservative, like night and day.

If you haven't yet, I recommend giving it a try at least once. Afterwards you can decide whether it's for you or not but at least challenge yourself and get to know what you're capable of.

-Luke

CALENDAR UPDATE!!!

I thought we were overdue for a calendar update and wanted everyone to know a group of us here in Bangkok are organizing a bjj/grappling tournament for this coming September 27-28, 2008. While this is apart from the SEA Grappling Games, we are working together with everyone in the area to ensure it is a unified event towards the interest of the competitors. We are presently working on sponsorship and establishing the rules of the event. For the sake of having a title, I've called it the Thailand BJJ/Grappling Open but this can change. More info to come!

In case I have made a mistake on the calendar, please let me know so that I can make the correct changes.

-Luke

APRIL
(26) CDHK, Gi Open Tournament + black-belt-absolute (Hong Kong)
(27) CDHK, No-Gi Open Tournament + Andre Galvao/Eduardo Telles Seminar (Hong Kong)
*info: HERE

(26-27) All Japan Championship (Hikarigaoka Gymnasium)

(last week) John Will Seminar (Malaysia, KDT Academy)
*rate: KDT-members 300/550 RM, non-members 350/650 RM

MAY
(3-4) Pan Asians BJJ Gi & No-Gi International (PH)
*Registrations and payments are due by Wednesday April 30.
*Venue : SM Mall of Asia, Music Atrium
*info: HERE

(5) Rickson Gracie Cup (Hamamatsu Arena, JP)
*info: HERE

(9-10) Abu Dhabi International Jiu-Jitsu Cup
info: HERE

(25) Dumau Kimonos BJJ International Cup (Nagoya-Aichi, JP)

JUNE
(TBA) Southeast Asian Grappling Games (Bangkok)

(TBA) Dela Riva Cup (JP)

(5-8) Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu IBJJF World Championship (JP)

(14) Synergy Jiu-Jitsu Championship II (Jakarta)(gi)

AUGUST
(17) Dumau Kimonos BJJ Championship (Kita-Kanto, JP)

SEPTEMBER
(27-28) Thailand BJJ/Grappling Open (tentative title)
*info: more to be announced as details confirmed but dates are definite

OCTOBER
(TBA) 1st Asia Pacific Champions Cup Gi & No-Gi
*Winners of the Absolute / Advanced divisions will receive trophies
*Dates and venue to be confirmed ( Tentative date is Early October)
*info: HERE

(25-26) Japan Open Championships (Budokan in Aichi Prefecture, JP)

NOV/DEC
(29-30) 4th Indonesian Submission Championship (Jakarta)(open: gi/no-gi)

(29-30) Campeonato Asiatico (Tokyo, JP)

DECEMBER
(13-14) Philippine BJJ International Open Gi & No-Gi (PH)
*Venue : SM Mall of Asia
*Registrations and payments due by Wednesday December 10
*info: HERE

(21) Dumau Kimonos BJJ Japan Cup (Saitama, JP)

BLOG NEWS

I had reported earlier that Marcelo Garcia would be coming to Bangkok, Thailand this May but due to his fight schedule changing, that will no longer be happening. I'm sure a number of you are bummed out but rest assured, there are some new surprises in the works but rather than put my foot in my mouth again, I will wait till things are confirmed 100%.

-Luke

PROF. FABRICIO MARTINS

thanks to: Stephen Kamphius
While visiting the Philippines, Prof. Fabricio Martins took some time to answer a few of our questions. I want to thank Prof. Martins for taking the time to speak with us, it's great to hear from those who've had such a positive impact on the sport. If you haven't read already, we did an interview with one of Prof. Martins' students, Daniel Otero who at the time just won the Copa America de Jiu Jitsu. I've also included pics taken from the seminar held earlier this week. -Luke

Please share with us a bit of your background regarding where you are from, how you started BJJ and under who did you receive your black belt and when?

I come from Rio de Janeiro. I started training with my older brother when I was eight years old under now 9th degree Red belt Grand Master Osvaldo Alves. In 1985, I received my Black Belt at age 20 under Grandmaster Osvaldo.

I have had an Academy in Rio for over 17 years and have been teaching for over 23 years. I am now a 5th Degree Black belt.
Could you share with us what your experience was like going from white to black-belt? What was your training routine and how much did competition play into your development as a fighter?

I began BJJ at a young age and competed in all belts from Yellow to Black belt winning in most of the major competitions at all Belt levels.

My training routine involved techniques in the morning, conditioning in the afternoon and hard Gi training at night. This routine could vary. Competition I think is very important you need good preparation; time to focus on your techniques and the spirit to learn. Competition helps a lot.

As BJJ continues to grow in SEA, the Philippines represents the largest BJJ community with the most tournaments held within a given year. How would you compare the growth of BJJ in the Philippines to the rest of SEA?

I do not know so much about the rest of SEA, but I visited my Team in the Philippines under my Student 1st stripe Black belt Stephen Kamphuis and I see the techniques that they are learning and applying is very good technical and efficient BJJ. I see that many students in my Team like to compete this will be good for the growth and exposure of BJJ.

Team Fabricio has represented very well internationally as well as in the local scene here in SEA. Could you share with us your thoughts on the early days of Equipe Frabicio and where the future is for you and your team?

It is only in the past two years that I have left my Academy in Brazil. I have over 40 Black belts in my school in Brazil and I am certain the future or my Team is wonderful, we are starting to plant the seeds. I have students teaching in Serbia Montenegro, Jordon, USA, Taiwan, Kuwait, Korea, and of course the Philippines. We are doing our best and the results will come.

What do you see as the key aspects for the positive growth of BJJ in SEA?

There are many good fighters in different Martial arts in Asia. I think the development and support of competitions will help grow the sport. People like my student Stephen Kamphuis are pioneers of the sport and by organising International BJJ zevents in such a beautiful venue is an important showcase for the sport.

For a number of clubs/gyms there may not be a black-belt level instructor but a group of white and blue-belts. How might these students progress at a competitive level?

With time, continuous training and joining competitions they can be good fighters.

What are your plans for Team Fabricio and yourself?

See my Team grow , and work hard to develop BJJ around the World.

Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers out there?

I am very happy to stay in the Philippines helping my student and friend Stephen Kamphuis and very happy to see the development of BJJ in the Philippines. I am sure the work will give us a lot of happiness in the future.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to talk about BJJ and my Team.

I'M BACK!

Oh my, I ate way too well on my trip and this week will be a tough one for me. Regardless of what I can manage regarding my fitness before the tournament it promises to be a good one. Just got my ticket all squared away and will be attending with my teammates from Bangkok. Look out!

It's nice to be home and looking forward to getting back to my regular routine. There are a few things developing and will post later today an interview I just received via e-mail.

On other news, I have just been informed that BANGKOK FIGHT CLUB will be moving their location starting May 1, 2008. Their new location: 10th floor of the Panjit Tower, 117 Soi Thonglor, Sukhumvit 55. Just short walk (600 meters) from the Thonglor BTS Station. The Panjit Tower is located between Thonglor Soi 5 and Soi 7 right across the street from the Tops Supermarket on Thonglor and the Starbucks coffee shop. if you are coming from the Thonglor BTS Station the building is on your left hand side. take an elevator up to the 10th floor. -Alex

I am also working on some t-shirts and patches. Unfortunately they won't be ready for the coming tournament but hopefully this summer things will be good to go. Another bit of news that's in development is that a group of us are working on a tournament to be held here in Bangkok September 27-28, 2008. I will be updating the calendar soon, once things are set and I have more details to share.

Until then, thanks again for the e-mails and comments. Always appreciate the feedback!

-Luke

WITHDRAWAL

OK, so it's now been just short of two weeks (maybe less) since I've been able to train and besides the added weight, I'm starting to really feel the anxiety of not being on the mat. Usually I can go with a week of not training and be fine, provided that I am busy and there's an honest reason for not training but soon, I get a bit cranky.

I'm sure your wife, girlfriend or lover will attest to your mood swings when you don't train regularly. There comes a point in my house where my wife insists that I go train and come back in a better mood. She's an understanding woman, haha.

-Luke

PS-Looking forward to seeing everyone in HK later this month.

DISCIPLINE OR LACK OF...

Damn, I'm having the worst time keeping myself from indulging in the great food here in Korea. I'm still bummed that I don't have time to train but with new family, I'm sure we'll be making another trip some time in the future. I'll be back to Bangkok by the 17th and back to posting more regularly.

As for the upcoming seminar, I haven't gotten any dates locked down but will have something relatively soon.

-Luke

THIS MORNING...

Up and down seems to be the trend these days but I'll hold off the dramatics. Just got some great news that following the tournament in Hong Kong later this month, we will be hosting some big names here in Bangkok. And since this is a BJJ site, it would make sense to share with everyone that one of these greats is Marcelo Garcia.

We are working on the details now but I promise it'll be quite an event for both BJJ/MMA fans.

-Luke

DISAPPOINTED

In Hong Kong for a biz before heading to Seoul. Got a bit of bad news. No times for BJJ on this trip as it's been booked solid with familial responsibilities.

Can't wait to compete later this month!

-Luke

BLOG NEWS

I just got done with a detox to rid myself of toxins and some added weight I've accumulated from the holiday season. While I'm still a ways away from my ideal weight, I do feel better and hope to keep myself disciplined when it comes to the drinkin' and good food. In addition to the note taking and training routine I've really looked at my eating habits and hope to make some positive changes this coming year. I am not blessed with super-drive metabolism like a lot of my friends who can eat whatever they want and it doesn't collect on the love-handles. So, I can either be disciplined about my diet or become Luis 'Big Mac' Teodoro, haha.

So, with that said I will be heading to Korea this coming week for family holiday. It's the Thai New Year (Songkran Festival) so I'm getting out of town! It will not be an easy task but with Copa De Hong Kong the following weekend upon my return, I will need to practice some hardcore self-restraint. I love the soju and love even more the bulgogi, bimbimbop, japjae and whatever else that's got kimchi and meaty-goodness. Wish me luck, haha.

During my travels, there probably won't be much to post (picture-wise) as I will be away from the computer but I hope to visit at least one BJJ club while in Seoul. Not sure which one as it'll depend on my schedule. If so, I will be sure to have a report of my experience when I get back to Bangkok.

There are a few things in the works that may come up. Again, waiting on some interviews to pan through but am working on a new addition to the blog. I was thinking of adding a 'technique' section to the blog where I upload a video of a particular technique from our resident files for everyone to share. Hopefully, this will spur some discussion on the matter and act as a starting point to learn from each other. Not sure how often I'd post these but will see what's possible and go from there. There's a ton of stuff on youtube that can be posted but I'd like to be a little more focused and am working with the guys here in Bangkok to do that.

Another bit of news, I am working on more promotional material for the blog + BJJ in general such as t-shirts and patches. If things go well, I will be offering these for sale at events that I attend as well as using them as 'thank yous' for your participation with the blog. Please note, I will use discretion as to what amount of help constitutes a free-gift, mind you this is coming from my own pocket and I don't have any sponsors, haha.

-Luke

MAURICIO PONTALTI: TMT

by: Ray ElbeTiger Muay Thai would like to welcome Mauricio Pontalti from Brazil as one of the gym's grappling instructors. Mauricio is a brown belt in the Gracie Barra Jiu Jitsu system under legendary 6th degree BJJ BB Crolin Gracie. At 24 years of age and 78 Kilos, Mauricio is in his fighting Prime and will be competing for Tiger Muay Thai at the upcoming Pan Asian games in Manila. Mauricio joins an already strong stable of grapplers at TMT joining Juliano Prado purple belt Ray Elbe, Ricardo Murdle purple belt Wade Henderson, and Lordz of Pain champion Andreas Hesselback as instructors. Mauricio will be in Phuket for the next 3 months teaching both Gi and Nogi morning classes while Ray focuses on his training for the upcoming Abu Dhabi tournament. -Ray

PICS FROM 'LORDZ OF PAIN': SINGAPORE

by: Benjamin Liu

SINGAPORE: TOURNAMENT RESULTS

Alive Academy Singapore wants to thank you for your participation in the 2008 Singapore Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Tournament. We apologies for any inconvenience caused during the event. Please feel free to send us your feedback so that we can improve and organise the next event better. -Benjamin Liu

Benjo80@hotmail.com

PARTICIPATING TEAMS:

Indonesia

Synergy Jiu-Jitsu

Malaysia
Brutal BJJ

Ultimate MA Gym

Thailand

Tiger Muay Thai

Singapore
Fight G

Will Machado

Contacts Kinetics