The Pan American Championship, often referred to colloquially as the “Pan Ams” is the largest Brazilian Jiu Jitsu tournament held in North America by the International Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation, a governing body directly connected to the Brazilian Confederation (CBJJ).
The Pan Ams represented the first step towards the internationalization of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as a sport has been held annually since 1995. Back then, in the first event, a group of almost 250 athletes took part in the pioneering and historical enterprise. A lot has changed since then. The tournament has grown tremendously and has achieved recognition as the biggest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competition in North America and as one of the most important events in the world. This year it was a four day event held on March 29th, 30th, 31th and April 01st 2012 located in the University of Irvine. If you weren’t able to attend, all matches were shown online with Budo Videos’ exclusive Multi mat technology. It has been reported that this year’s tournament drew over 3250 competitors from all corners of the world. This incredible number keeps growing every year.
The rooster championship bout started with Rafael de Freitas “Barata” aggressively going for a shot. It doesn’t work so “Barata” dances up and down, left to right then he pulls guard. A quick scramble occurs “Barata” gets the half guard. Caio Terra gets the underhook and attempts an arm lock. Caio doesn’t get the arm lock but gets the advantage. Soon they both go into 50/50. “Barata” attempts to take Caio’s back. Caio’s on top going for an arm lock but “Barata is holds on to his arm tightly. “Barata” tries to go for the back then attempts a calf slice as a result they both have an advanage. 4 mins and 20 seconds pass Caio tries to go for a toe hold. “Barata” shakes his head no to the toe hold but Caio gets the advantage. Caio then goes for the other foot. “Barata” rolls to defend which makes a 3 advantage points for Caio. The referees glide them to the middle of the mat. Caio stands up “Barata” attemps a sweep then Caio knee bars “Barata” for the tap. There you have it folks….
San Jose, Ca’s very own Caio Terra once again proves to everyone – friends, fans, sponsors and critics – the jiu jitsu techniques he uses and teaches work. He generously shares these techniques through his seminars, dvds, CSA and his very own academy in 855 Park Ave. San Jose, Ca.
