PRESS RELEASE – From March 23-26, 2023, the Carlson Gracie Guam Bulldogs set their sights on competing in this year’s Marianas Pro & Tokyo International Spring BJJ Championship.
With 10 competitors, CG was proud to bring home 10 medals.
“We’ve always been about quality over quantity,” said Professor Gabe Baker, head instructor of Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy. “As proud as I am of my squad that competed out there, as a Guam guy, I’m extremely proud of all the teams that went out. Never mind that we’re from different academies – out there, we’re Team Guam.”
This year’s Japan Competition Team highlighted CG’s youth/kids’ members, the youngest to compete being 6 years old.
“We’re all very proud of how our teens and kids performed,” said coach Waioleka Kaapuni. “It’s a great experience for them, and we’re glad that Professor Anthony and coach Eric were out there with them, setting great examples and being great leaders.”
Despite their modest numbers, they put their best foot forward. “They did great! With more experience and training, I believe this group can be unstoppable,” commented coach Eric Francisco, who competed alongside the baby Bulldogs.
“I hope they move on to the next competition with even more confidence and drive!”
When questioned about their own performances, the answers were introspective. “I feel I did ok.” Francisco said, “I know and feel I’m capable of more.”
ANOTHER GOLD FOR CRUZ
For Professor Anthony Cruz the work is never done. He was able to win the gold in the super heavy weight division, but despite powering through with two more submission wins during the Absolute Division, his streak was tripped up at the semifinals where the match was lost by points.
But that wasn’t about to dampen his spirits.
“No sad stories,” Cruz said in his Instagram post, “every setback brings with it a seed of [an equivalent] success.” It’s only up from here.
CG Guam Medalists
Anthony Cruz: Gold
Eric Francisco: Bronze (Absolute)
Arora Villaverde: Double Gold
Zarie Sayles: Gold
Raejia Blas: Gold
Quorra Francisco: Gold & Silver
Raizel Blas: Bronze
Jesse Cruz: Bronze
About Carlson Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy: The academy was founded in 2003 and is still going strong. Homegrown and family-oriented, our mission is to empower people through the art of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu by building self-confidence and enhancing self-awareness. We strive to help cultivate the ability to work under pressure; to find comfort in discomfort that’s not limited to training but can also translate to daily life.
We currently have two locations in Anigua & Upper Tumon.
For more information please contact Professor Gabe Baker at 671-929-7456.
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GPS Sports Calendar
March 2024
- SU
- MO
- TU
- WE
- TH
- FR
- SA
Events for February
1st
ISA SOFTBALL
IIAAG MS GIRLS SOCCER FINALS
IIAAG BOYS BASKETBALL QUARTERFINALS
HS RUGBY PLAYOFFS
Events for March
2nd
HS RUGBY
ISA GIRLS SOFTBALL
ISA BOYS BASKETBALL FINALS
Events for March
2nd
Events for March
4th
ISA HIGH SCHOOL TENNIS
ISA SOFTBALL ALL-ISLAND COACHES MEETING
Events for March
5th
HS RUGBY PLAYOFFS
IIAAG BOYS BASKETBALL SEMIFINALS
Events for March
8th
IIAAG BOYS BASKETBALL FINALS
ISA HIGH SCHOOL TENNIS PLAYOFFS
Events for March
9th
ISA SOFTBALL FINALS
HS RUGBY FINALS
Events for March
9th
Events for March
14th
- 17
- 18
- 19
- 20
- 21
- 22
- 23
Events for March
16th
Events for March
17th
Events for March
18th
Events for March
19th
Events for March
20th
Events for March
22nd
Events for March
24th
Events for March
25th
Events for March
27th
Events for March
28th
Events for March
29th
- 31
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
Events for March
30th
Soccer
ISLANDERS OUTSHOOT DOLPHINS
Uncategorized
4TH QUARTER SPORTS SET FOR TAKE OFF
Soccer
ISLANDERS OUTSHOOT DOLPHINS
Uncategorized
4TH QUARTER SPORTS SET FOR TAKE OFF
COMING SOON …
4th Quarter Sports
- Guam Marathon