Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming. John Wooden

Everyone left for Portugal determined to unify the GB TEAM around the ultimate principles of the teaching and practice of Jiu-Jitsu. A Jiu-Jitsu, where instructors, students, athletes, family, friends and fans of the red shield are able to enjoy to the full the lifestyle that the gentle art provides. And the goal was achieved! Defenders of the red shell from white to black belts, came from various parts of the world to Lisbon, where the meetings and events of the team took place. The result of the gathering of gentle art fans made for an unforgettable week for all participant with workouts, new friendships and reunion of friends we will remember forever!

The first activity at the event was the GB European Camp. It was the first official Gracie Barra camp endorsed by Master Carlos Gracie Jr. in European soil. It was exciting to witness more than 100 GB warriors standing side by side. Chosen by Master Carlinhos to lead the camp and share their techniques were the experienced GB champions Braulio and Victor Estima. The routine training was focused on Jiu-Jitsu as a sport and overall we had 16 hours of learning techniques, spread over four days. The Estima brothers (as Braulio and Victor are known ) demonstrated different techniques and strategies for advanced and novice athletes, taking into account the dynamics of points and advantages. Together we made history.

The beginning of the European Jiu – Jitsu Championship was eagerly awaited by all participants. A major part of the GB TEAM took park in the competition and the ones who didn’t enroll cheered and assisted with the fights. When the big day came the stadium was flooded with red shirt. It was an opportunity to reunite with old friends, make new ones and watch the biggest names in the gentle sport in action. Our team won two out of the five trophies with the highlight being the victory of black belt Lucio “Lagarto” in the super- heavyweight division of the black belts.

Following these achievements the team will gather in Lisbon on February 22 for GB COMPNET in Irvine . All Gracie Barra members are invited to attend ! Let’s fill the stadium with people who share the same ideals and vision to promote the ‘Jiu – Jitsu for everyone’concept  . You can find more information here .