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By Patrick Lujan
Robert Maloney strolls into Denver and takes double gold in Colorado Open. (courtesy photo)
He’s rolling with the big boys now – and Robert Maloney is showing that he belongs.
The two-time world champion in the youth divisions made a statement in the 2013 Colorado Jiu Jitsu and Grappling Open, winning both the blue belt gi and no gi gold medals this past weekend.
“This was the first time I have ever gone and competed in Colorado,my biggest concern was the altitude,” said the 17-year-old from Arizona about the competition in mile-high Denver. “Everything went well. I was super excited to experience new styles and training.”
Competing against grown men is supposed to be more challenging than juveniles. Apparently not for Maloney.
He had four matches in gi and four matches in no gi – winning all by submission!
Gi submissions: kimura, bow and arrow, mounted cross choke, half guard kimura
No gi submissions: rear naked choke, ezequile choke, triangle, rear naked choke
Not only did he do this to grown men, but he was on the lighter side of the 174-184-lb. division, weighing in at 174 lbs.
“I went to Colorado to compete and visit my aunt and uncle,” Maloney said. “I strive not only to win, but to gain knowledge.
“This win is another example of why I do what I do, and that’s jiu jitsu. I can’t explain the amount of happiness this brings me but reminding myself that this is just the beginning will keep me moving forward and to help me overcome all my future challenges.”
Maloney wasn’t able to take part in the absolute because he had to drop his sister to the airport. Family first!
Robert Maloney chokes out one of his opponents on his way to a gold medal in the no gi blue belt division in Denver. (courtesy photo)
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Matsuno’s second place finish earned him an invitation to compete in the FCG Junior Golf Championship to be held in July 2025.
A junior at St. John’s, he is also currently leading the IIAAG high school All-Island golf competition, chasing the coveted individual high school golf title.
