I was going to break it down, but then I realized I don't know some people's last names, and I know almost no one's weight class. So to avoid giving you incorrect information, or being a douche and not knowing everyone's last name I will break it down like this...
10 Students and Fabio competed.
White Belt -
1 - Silver Medal
2 - Bronze Medal
Blue Belt -
1 - Gold
1 - Silver
1 - Bronze
All of my teammates trained hard and fought well. Six of them had their preparation meet opportunity. I am so proud of everyone!! And like Fabio says, it's not about winning. It's about having the courage to go.
Paul, who earned his black belt the week before heading to the Pans competed. I don't think he is coming home with a medal (He is one of three people in this country without a Facebook, so I'm not sure) but I think he showed a whole truck load of heart for going and competing against some of the best black belts in the world, only having worn his for a week. So I feel a huge congratulations is in order for that alone.
Fabio also competed. He won bronze in absolute! I feel blessed to count myself among one of Fabio's students. Always. Not because of the medals he wins, or the trophies in his office, but because Fabio is one of the most outstanding human beings I've ever had the good fortunate to come across. Allie wrote a really great blog about him recently that sums him up pretty well. So, I won't fart hearts and rainbows about him again. I will just say that Fabio is one of the few people outside of my family that I truly respect and admire.
No one is home with pictures yet, but a few pictures of my team were snapped by the IBJJF photographers. I stole them.
Salsa John is on the bottom. I first recognized him by his hideous ankle brace. =)
This Fabio Reffing.
FABIO NOVAES BJJ!!
"It's not about winning. It's about having the courage to go." Enough said.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to Fabio & the rest of the team!
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