Source: BruDirect
Kuala Belait’s premier Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy The Refinery hosted Brunei’s first inter-club Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) competition last Sunday. The event saw the convergence of all four BJJ clubs in Brunei, namely Khalifa MMA and Jits Irmao from BSB, Wolfpack from Tutong and The Refinery from KB.
The competition aimed to bring the growing local BJJ community together and provide the opportunity for practitioners to gain competition experience, while also serving as a stepping stone for those who plan on competing in regional competitions later this year. For more than half of the participants, this was their first time competing.
The event started with the female White Belt divisions in the morning, with 18 competitors in 4 weight classes, the youngest competitor being only 11 years old. Men’s divisions commenced in the afternoon with 31 competitors spread over 5 divisions for White Belt, and 2 divisions for Blue Belt.
After some intense fights and an incredible display of sportsmanship, winners were awarded with medals and prizes sponsored by two local fightwear brands, Combatch and Dark Arts Fightwear.
“It was an eye opener. I came out feeling motivated and inspired. The support and love from the BJJ family and everyone was amazing”, said Annie Chia, a first time competitor who emerged with a gold medal in the open weight division.
The Refinery’s Head Coach and organizer of the event, Nobel Lee said, “I’m very pleased by the growth of BJJ over the past fews years and it seemed like the right time to hold this event since we now have four well-established clubs. With the positive feedback I have received, there is a possibility that there will be future competitions”.
A number of local BJJ practitioners have also been actively competing in regional and international competitions in recent years, earning medals and gaining recognition for Brunei in the sport.
Brunei’s first Inter-Club Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Competition was organized and hosted by The Refinery with assistance and support from other BJJ clubs, successfully merging local practitioners in the landmark event which is considered as a big development in the history of the local BJJ scene.
The Refinery runs Brazilian Jiu Jitsu classes in Kuala Belait, offering classes for beginners, intermediate level, kids classes, and a weekly class exclusively for women.