I competed in the Austin Winter International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship on January 26, 2020 at the Round Rock Sports Center. This was my first time to compete in Gi. I weighed in at 131.8 lbs and competed in the light feather division which goes from 127-141.5 lbs. I took a tough loss in my first match and was eliminated from my bracket for the day. I ended up getting my back taken and got caught in a loop choke. Much respect to my opponent and everyone who competed!
Why am I sharing a loss? Isn’t it embarrassing or disappointing?
No it’s NOT embarrassing! Winning and losing is part of competing in martial arts. Honestly it was a little disappointing to lose my first match, but did I learn something? Absolutely!
This year in 2020 I wanted to challenge myself in martial arts doing something I never have done before and that was competing in Gi Jiu-Jitsu. That match right here was worth a ton of experience. It was humbling and I learned a bunch. I need to be more aggressive. I believe I had a few opportunities to attempt a takedown but didn’t. I also should have fought the grips more and grabbed the legs when my opponent had me down after we had stood back up etc etc.
I hope to inspire someone to challenge yourself. Whether you win or lose, succeed or fail go try to do something that is out of your comfort zone! Challenging yourself can only make you better! Just don’t give up and continue striving forward!
Will I compete again?
Of course! This is just the beginning with my journey in Jiu-Jitsu!
If you want to follow my journey follow me on Instagram
@austincarlislemma
As always Keep Kicking!
#FightInSight #IBJJF
