Strength and Skill Highlighted at 6th Annual Kids’ Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Championships

Kids from across the U.S. and around the world made their way to the 6th Annual Kids World Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Championships at Cal State University San Bernardino (CSUSB) this past weekend. This two-day event, which began Saturday, July 20 and ended Sunday, July 21, attracted over 800 kids between the ages of 4 and 17, where they competed for bronze, silver and gold medals, title belts and bikes. The Kids World International Championships is the only tournament in the world specifically held for children. This annual event provides an opportunity for kids around the world to compete against other elite Jiu-Jitsu competitors. The arena, which was packed with competitors, coaches and parents, boasted several blue and yellow mats allowing six different matches to go on at once. Upon arrival, competitors received a Kids World T-shirt. Kids competed either as individuals or with a school. Depending on their performance, a select few were asked to take the podium where they received their medals. With 258 brackets and families traveling from as far as Brazil and Japan, Tournament Director Rommel Dunbar calls this a “continuous education tournament.” “Education is important and self defense is practical for the real world.” Dunbar also offers free registration for kids with straight A’s. Dunbar, who began his training in traditional Tae Kwon Do, has 21 years of Jiu-Jitsu training under his belt. The biggest difference between the Tae Kwon Do and Jiu-Jitsu is the practicality, as Dunbar explained. “It’s hands-on right away, whereas Tae Kwon Do has a lot of eye–hand coordination trios and techniques,” he said. Announcer Anthony Torres explained that martial arts helped prepare him for life. Torres also believes that Jiu-Jitsu is a great way for kids to open their minds. “They learn at a very young age to control their fear, and fear is what stops most people in life from achieving anything. So when I see these kids get out there and they’re fearless taking on kids 20 pounds heavier than them and fighting a great fight, it’s like ‘Yes!’ because you know how that person is going to be as an adult. It’s just a beautiful thing to see,” he said. Volunteer Yevette Ramos said what makes this a rewarding experience is that it’s really a sport for the kids. “You see the kids able to practice their technique in a competition setting, but still really focused on the discipline of the sport.” Kids World awarded more than 238 medals and title belts at the weekend competition.