15 seconds to get the gold

Saturday 03 February 2018

Jersey's Brazilian Power Team Jersey recently shone at the IBJJF European Open Jiu Jitsu Championships in Lisbon after one of their members brought down their opponent in just 15 seconds.

In total, the team took home two medals, including one gold, amongst over 5,000 registered competitors.

BPT competitor Kierra Myles was crowned European Champion in the Medium Heavyweight adult division at blue belt, while Professor Vladimiro 'Miro' Afonso, BPT's head coach of BPT, took home the bronze in the Heavyweight Masters division at black belt.

Kierra won four consecutive matches en route to the final where she got rid of her opponent in just 15 seconds to take the gold.

Professor Eduardo Afonso and novice William Moir also represented Jersey at the tournament, which is the largest grappling competition in Europe.

The four athletes were supported through their preparation by the Jersey Sport Foundation, and kindly sponsored by Grange Properties.

BPT Jersey train at Le Geyt centre at Five Oaks and teach all levels from beginners up to European and World level. Kids classes are also proving popular through their 'Youngzilions' youth program.

Pictured: Professor Vladimiro 'Miro' Afonso, BPT's head coach of BPT, winning bronze in the Heavyweight Masters division at black belt.

The BPT team appears to be on a winning streak after winning nine medals - including three golds - at the the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) London Fall competition last October.

In November, eight members of the team at the North American Grappling Association (NAGA) championships.