The subjects of each of the 44 photos in the gallery below are not well known.
This doesn’t mean they are any less important in the story of the 2011 Pan, though.
Each of them are part of the 900-competitor army that will pass through the eight fight areas on the opening day of the event and is key in the success of the Pan in particular and Jiu-Jitsu in general.
They therefore deserve center stage at this Thursday’s gentle art fest.
Photographer Dan Rod aimed his keen eye at these unknown warriors and, once again, caught the emotion, technique, dedication and, above all else, beauty on display.
Marvel at these 44 magic instants of Jiu-Jitsu.
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And don’t miss the complete coverage at the GRACIEMAG at the Pan Blog.