Victor won the absolute with tapouts in every match. Photo: publicity.
This weekend in England the third installment of the British Open, organized by our GMA Bráulio “Carcará” Estima, took place.
The Gracie Barra teacher counted more than 800 fighters and sent in a review of the biggest news from the tourney.
“There were over 800 signed up, a record for Jiu-Jitsu competitions here in the United Kingdom. Even with so many athletes, the competition ended earlier than expected,” reported Bráulio.
British punctuality was not the only thing the Brazilian was celebrating: “The standout at black belt was (my brother) Victor Estima, winning the absolute by submitting all his opponents. He won trophy in memory of our great friend Steve fan, one of the organizers of the first events, who passed away early this year. The absolute final was against one of the sport’s sensations here, Michael Russell. Victor ended up getting the submission, a tight footlock 2:30 minutes into the fight. Stuart Gwilt won the absolute championship, then his weight group too.”
Carcará was pleased with how successful the tournament was, while he recovers from back surgery: “I’m really glad our sport is taking another step forward in its evolution.”
The team placement was as follows:
1) Gracie Barra Birmingham
2) Roger Gracie Academy
3) Gracie Barra Midlands
4) CheckMat