Gracie Barra Juniors enjoy four wins in Dublin

Thu, 07 Dec 2023

Gracie Barra Isle of Man took their first ever Junior Competition Squad to the prestigious IBJJF Kids European Championship in Dublin at the weekend and had four wins at the tournament which is considered World level with the most talented competitors attending from all continents. 

Prior to this competition, the Junior Squad has attended more tournaments and had more wins than any previous year and they had their sights firmly set on this event, which is the biggest and most challenging they can compete in on this side of the globe.

Taking place at the Sport Ireland Campus, ten competition areas were utilised simultaneously over the course of the ten hour day with thousands in attendance, either partaking or spectating.

Cedric Brigino overcame some initial nerves to produce a great performance in his quarterfinal and, ultimately, a fantastic submission win over a determined opponent. Cedric is the Island’s highest belt ranked under 16, and he was keen to end his competing year on a high. He ultimately won a hard earned Bronze medal and therefore a podium finish, after securing a choke submission. 

Alan Greenhalgh has had a great year of competition in 2023 and he continued to show his trademark relaxed yet focused demeanour immediately prior to being called up to fight. He took on a seasoned opponent who initially found himself in a more advantageous position before Alan immediately turned the match around. Upholding a dominant position and very nearly finishing the match with a submission, Alan ultimately won with a significant point victory and took home Bronze.

Maisie Meban entered this tournament having won Gold in a UK National tournament in October, and like then, brought her enthusiasm along with a ferocious energy to this competition. Taking on a seasoned Brazilian Competitor, Maisie had her work cut out for her but utilised a rare submission that caught out her opponent and caused her tap out! Maisie took home a well deserved Bronze as a result. (Pictured below)

Jayden Mahey was taking part in his last ever Junior Competition before moving up to the Juvenile divisions in 2024. Competing in these Championships was a great way to round off a superb Junior career in the Sport for him. He had a fantastic qualifying round in which he won via a large point victory but was just outside of medal contention.

Head Coach Conrad Roberts added: “This was always going to be the biggest test for these young competitors but one they all needed to do, and it truly showed we deserved to be there with some superb results. Myself and the Coaching Team are all very proud of them and proud to represent the Isle of Man in this Sport at this level.”

Hartford Homes have greatly assisted the GBIOM Competition Squads this year, and the whole Team are extremely grateful for their support.

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Photos