On December 6th, 2015 Brazilian Top Team Austin Texas held it’s first Girls in Gis event. This was the last event of the year and everyone came out to be a part of it. The event was led by Patricia Machado and Laura Heiman Martin. Patricia and Laura are not only two of Texas’ esteemed purple belts, but extremely talented competitors with a wealth of knowledge. Brazilian Top Team Austin graciously opened their doors to fifty five females from all across Texas. For those that were able to make it, it was one heck of a way to end the year. The event was filled with lots of laughter, comrade and sisterhood.
The event began with introductions where several of the participants shared their heart ache, struggles and how Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu had helped them to overcome the turmoil in their lives. It was extremely moving and touching to hear these stories. There are so many reasons we are drawn to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. No matter what our reasons are for training, I think that for so many of us it is a tool by which we can grow, change and if anything step away from the chaos in our lives and take a “time out”. It is hard with the day to day grind to live in the moment, but when on the mats you have no choice but to live in the moment as you’re hunting for a submission or fending one off.
After the introductions Patricia and Laura led a quick warm up game followed by some Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu specific drills. Just enough to get everyone warmed up and ready for the next phase of the event. Following drills we split off into two groups. Adults went with Patricia and the kids went with Laura. Laura showed the kids the Pendulum sweep from closed guard, and an s mount arm bar. Patricia taught several variations to the adult ladies and via questions and answers Patricia showed one of her favorite chokes the girls had seen her do in competition.
Then it was on to some challenges. For our little girls we had a wall sit challenge. The competition was fierce, but the girls hung tough. The fun wasn’t just for the little girls. For the adults we had a head stand challenge which was fun and challenging. Congratulations to our 1st and 2nd place winners.
Last but not least it was time to get our roll on. The girls did three minute rounds and then it was open mat. For some girls this is the only opportunity they have to roll with girls their size, skill level and from other academies. It is something that is unique an valuable in their Jiu-Jitsu journey. Yet another one of the many benefits of Girls in Gis.
None of this would have been possible if not for the hospitality of Brazilian Top Team Austin, Patricia and Laura. Thank you for making this a memorable event. Thank you to everyone that came out to support the event and further the bonds that unite us. Thank you to Ketra and Jeane for running a great event. There was no better way to end the year. Thank you all for being a part of it. Happy Holidays!
Check out these photos from the event: www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1067798046585350.1073741908.223743377657492&type=3