Telles at Internacional 2009. Photo: Carlos Ozório
One of the main standouts from the 2009 International Masters and Seniors tournament was Eduardo Telles. The black belt leader of Nine Nine academy won both his weight group and the absolute. This year, we’ll see Telles and his famous turtle guard in action at the Tijuca Tennis Club.
“I’m going to participate and we’re taking a really big team. We’re getting all the old guys ready! We’re going in full blast!” he warns.
Last year, besides the International, Telles also tried his luck at the Rio Open championship, which takes place at the same time, but meant for the adult divisions.
“I think I’m only going to focus on the master this time. Last year I tried both, but it was rough. You end up getting really tired,” he says.
There are those who might think competing as a master would be easier than as an adult. However, there are complicating factors.
“It’s different. The hard part in the master division is match duration, as it is really short (6 min, four less than in the adult). I still plan on competing as an adult, but this masters championship is really great. It’s cool and we compete alongside a number of legends. I hope it stays that way and the event gets bigger and bigger,” he says in finishing.
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Check out two positions Telles will likely use at the Tijuca Tennis Club: