Growth and pride: These are two of the many words that can be used to describe the OBX Martial Arts kids program.
OBX Martial Arts recently attended the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJ) Pan American Championship in Florida, the largest kids jiu-jitsu event in North America. The event featured a sublime turnout of over 3,000 kid competitors showing up to battle in their respected weight classes.
Led by world-ranked instructor and coach Rick Bateman, a group from OBX Martial Arts took to the stage and accomplished what no other local martial arts children’s program has been able to do — compete at the largest jiu-jitsu stage for kids. OBX Martial Arts is now the Outer Banks’ first homegrown kids martial arts program to step foot on the world stage being led by a true local.
Not only did these talented athletes compete and test their battle skills, but they also made their way back to the Outer Banks with some impressive hardware.
Both having fought tough final matches but coming up short of the gold were Khalel Sibugan and Stella McNeil, who were awarded two silver medals. Also falling short of the finals but bringing back lessons to learn and grow from were Hayden Pond and Ryder Bateman, who were awarded two bronze medals.
OBX Martial Arts continues to lead the way for year-round jiu-jitsu events for children, growing both physical and mental strength in the process.
Congratulations to all of the OBX Martial Arts competitors on a job well done!
To find out how you can be a part of the Outer Banks’ best martial arts school — which has been voted Best of the Beach for three years straight in six different categories — visit www.obxmartialarts.com.