More females are gathering to compete on the mats of the 2013 World Championship. Photo: Erin Herle
For the next reason of our 18 to be part of the 2013 World Championship in honor of its 18th year, we’re coaxing the women to come out on the mats. The competitions are growing with numbers spilling over into higher ranks as the years go on and dedicated athletes remain with the art. A part of that succession involves a fraction of persistent women.
So reason #6 is:
Get the females on the mat to prove the evolution of women in Jiu-Jitsu.
If you’re a female who competes, you’ll be glad to know that we are growing in numbers. If you look at the white and blue belts, the divisions are packed. Purple belts are coming in strong by filling up brackets and the brown and black belts are inviting more to follow their footsteps.
The first female black belt world champion was Leka Vieira in 1999 when the number of women competing could be counted on one hand. In previous years, Leka was claimed champion in many tournaments but only because she was the only one registered. Today, we have multiple female black belt world champions who continue to pioneer the upcoming competitors and strengthen the leadership for those looking to follow their paths.
As of now there are over 20 competitors in some of the blue and purple belt weight divisions. Watch out for the females if you’re a spectator and compete with me at the mundials May 29 – June 2 located at the Long Beach Walter Pyramid in Long Beach, CA. Register now if you’re a female competitor to be a part of the evolution. Register at www.ibjjf.org
See one of Leka’s 1999 Mundial matches below:
