The Turks and Caicos Islands have once again made their mark on the international stage, with impressive performances at the Chicago Summer International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship held on Saturday, August 10 in Chicago, Illinois.
Norman Saunders, his younger brother Josh Saunders, and Alex Yablong led the charge, bringing home a haul of medals that underscore their skill and dedication to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Norman Saunders, a seasoned competitor and a name well-known in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, added to his growing collection of accolades with a gold medal in the Gi category and a silver in the No Gi category for his weight class. His consistent performances and ability to excel in both Gi and No Gi formats highlight his versatility and technical prowess on the mat.
While Norman Saunders is no stranger to standing atop the podium, the Chicago championship marked a significant milestone for his younger brother, Josh Saunders. Josh secured his first major gold medal, a testament to his hard work and determination.
Adding to the success of the Turks and Caicos contingent was Alex Yablong, who co-owns the Turks and Caicos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy. Yablong clinched gold in the No Gi weight class, silver in his bracket, and bronze in the Absolute (open weight) division. His performance in the Absolute division, in particular, demonstrates his ability to compete against opponents of all sizes, showcasing his technical skill and adaptability.
David Galluzzi, co-founder of the Turks and Caicos Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, also flew the TCI flag high, earning silver in his No Gi weight class and bronze in the Absolute division. Galluzzi, who co-founded the gym in 2021 with Yablong, has been instrumental in developing the Jiu-Jitsu scene in Turks and Caicos. The duo’s success in Chicago serves as a testament to the quality of training and the high standards they’ve set at their academy.
The Chicago championship served as a crucial preparation event for the upcoming Jiu-Jitsu Con/World Masters, often referred to as the competition of the year. Galluzzi emphasized the importance of this event as a dress rehearsal for the World Masters, where the stakes will be even higher, and the competition fiercer.
Yablong, who also serves as the head coach of the Turks and Caicos Islands Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, received his black belt from Amal Easton. Amal is the 7th pupil to receive his blackbelt from legendary Brazilian Mixed Martial Artist Renzo Gracie.
The success of the Saunders brothers, Yablong, and Galluzzi at the Chicago Summer International Open is a proud moment for the Turks and Caicos Islands, reinforcing their position on the international Jiu-Jitsu map. As they prepare for the Jiu-Jitsu Con/World Masters, the trio’s recent achievements will undoubtedly fuel their drive for even greater success on the world stage.
Comments