So GRACIEMAG.com readers dream of competing in Abu Dhabi, right?
The quickest route to fame and fortune are the World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship tryouts taking place across the planet.
The coming 3rd and 4th of March in the southern Brazilian city of Gramado will mark the final qualifier in Brazil. Sign-ups only open on February 1 but we’re already spoken with some of the promoters and got a sense of the competition, so we bring you four points in a strong case for the event being quite different from the ones that have already taken place.
Proof GRACIEMAG.com believes what it’s saying, our team will be there. Why don’t you show up too!
Gramado will be the host city for the final Abu Dhabi qualifier in Brazil. There, even the secretary of sports practices Jiu-Jitsu. Publicity photo.
1. TOURISM AND JIU-JITSU
Gramado is a unique town, with tourist and gastronomical attractions that fill the senses. The landscapes and mountain air are perfect for “nourishing yourself with fresh air,” one of Grandmaster Carlos Gracie’s commandments.
2. FAITH IN JIU-JITSU
The city’s mayor, Nestor Tissot, spoke with the event’s promoter, Fernando Paradeda, and was enthusiastic about the repercussions from the last tryouts held there, with nearly a thousand Jiu-Jitsu competitors showing up for the occasion. The secretary of sport, Ubirajara Elias, liked it so much that he took up Jiu-Jitsu himself.
3. JIU-JITSU IN SCHOOLS
Gramado recently implemented Jiu-Jitsu in its schools. With the young town-folk training and tryouts on the annual calendar, Gramado has all the makings of a future gentle art hub.
4. SURPRISES FOR THE ATHLETES
And there are still surprises to come, guarantees Paradeda. “We have full faith the next one will be the best in the world. We have the backing of city hall, the local community, our partners, and some surprises for the participants,” the black belt promises.
