Seven athletes from Roma Jiu Jitsu Academy in Hilo participated in the Pan Kids International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Championship on Feb. 18 in Long Beach, Calif.
The annual event is one of the largest jiu jitsu tournaments in the world and among the most prestigious competitions for young athletes in this sport.
The competitors, ages 7-14, were Tylie Peralta (third place), Nainoa Tanaka, Aden Leyson (first place), Cruz Simonson, Kingston Richards, Levin Peralta and Jesiah Conol (third place). For all seven, this was their first time competing in a mainland IBJJF tournament. For some, this was the first time ever traveling to the mainland.
“We are extremely proud of our Roma keiki for representing our academy, our island and our state so well,” said Roma Jiu Jitsu professor Kawika Yoneda. “They are already looking forward to competing at next year’s Pan Kids along with more of their teammates. We’d like to thank each and every person from our academy, the Hilo community and beyond who have supported these athletes on their journey.”
Roma Jiu Jitsu Academy is a family-oriented training facility that aspires to instill discipline, respect and confidence in each student/athlete, encouraging them to learn, train and become well-rounded in jiu jitsu and in life. The academy opened its doors in April 2016 in downtown Hilo at 224 Kamehameha Ave., Suite 202.
For more information, call 769-4890.