TEAM BRONZE FOR PUREBRED AT ASIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS

PRESS RELEASE – From June 28th to 30th, Purebred Jiu Jitsu Guam’s dedicated athletes, supported by family and friends, embarked on a remarkable journey to Chiba, Japan, to compete in the prestigious IBJJF Asian Championships. This event, organized by the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF), is renowned as the premier governing body for the sport of jiu-jitsu worldwide. This year’s competition was the largest in the championship’s history, attracting athletes from 38 different countries.

Despite fierce competition, Purebred Jiu Jitsu Guam emerged victorious, securing the 3rd place novice trophy. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as it underscores the exceptional performance of our team, which operates from a single location in Hagatna, Guam. In contrast, the 1st and 2nd place winners, Tri-Force Jiu Jitsu and Carpe Diem respectively, have multiple locations in Japan and throughout the world, with many athletes representing them to help contribute to their teams’ overall scores.

Purebred Jiu Jitsu Guam sent a small team of 13 athletes to the competition, highlighting their remarkable achievement. Below are the accomplishments of our athletes at the event:

– Gold Medalist Francesca Ada Lizama placed first in the Adult Purple Belt Lightweight Division.

– Gold Medalist Pauline Cruz placed first in the Master 1 White Belt Heavyweight Division.

– Gold Medalist Stephanie Zualaga placed first in the Adult White Belt Featherweight Division.

– Gold Medalist Melvin Ngiratumerang placed first in the Master 1 White Belt Lightweight Division.

– Silver Medalist Marlo Cruz placed second in the Master 4 Brown Belt Medium-Heavyweight Division.

– Bronze Medalist Jesse Grijalva placed third in the Adult White Belt Middleweight Division.

These athletes’ accomplishments highlight not only the talent of our athletes but also the supportive community that surrounds them. The camaraderie and relentless spirit displayed by our team in Chiba are a testament to the high standards and strong foundation of our training program.

We are incredibly proud of our athletes’ hard work and dedication. Their success on an international stage brings honor not only to Purebred Jiu Jitsu Guam but also to our local community. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Tri-Force Jiu Jitsu and Carpe Diem for their outstanding performances and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship that defines our sport.

As we look ahead, Purebred Jiu Jitsu Guam remains committed to nurturing talent and fostering a love for jiu-jitsu. We thank our supporters, families, and friends who traveled with us and cheered us on. Your encouragement and belief in our athletes made this achievement possible. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence and represent Guam with pride in the world of jiu-jitsu.