Yesterday I competed in my first Jiu Jitsu tournament – the 4th U.S. National Cup, put on the by the Rocky Mountain Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation. In addition to fighting, I got to meet Cris Cyborg. Mixed-martial artist Cameron Dollar was also on hand, as was the legend himself, Relson Gracie.

My take on it?

It was awesome, even though it didn’t go my way. The loss of my match in this single elimination tournament left me with much to  think about and digest.

The fight was awesome; intense and resolute. I loved it. Still, I’ll be “haunted” – and I hope that adjective is not too dramatic to explain how I feel – by things I wish I had done differently.

But that is the point, isn’t it?

Part of the appeal of tournaments – especially your first ones – is that a main objective is to simply “learn how to compete”, rather than to win.  A coach explained this to me at the tournament. By the way, the Relson Gracie Colorado coaching staff was (and is) great. Thanks, Van and Jason.

While reflecting on my tournament, I feel myself getting pumped up. So much to build on from this experience, so much to learn, so much to accomplish…

Damn, I can’t wait for class tomorrow.