British Championship Success

Gracie Barra Isle of Man has enjoyed a successful trip to the UK which saw one of their ranks crowned British Gi Champion.

Coach Mark Franklin took Gold in the light feather weight division after two successful matches which both ended in a submission finish.

It was a challenging weekend for the small contingent that took part in the British Open Gi Championships held at Warwick University.  The tournament is recognised as the most prestigious Brazilian Jiu-jitsu Gi competition in the UK with winners given the accolade of ‘British Champion’.

Mark, who the club says is ‘known for his technical ability, especially in the guard position’, submitted his opponents with armbars from guard early on in both matches.

Mark Franklin wins his final

Head coach Conrad Roberts said: ‘The matches were fantastic to watch and very entertaining with Mark dominating both with a calm and controlled demeanour. He became the British champion in Gi which he now adds to his British champion Nogi title which he gained last December.’

Stuart Shimmin, who has had a very successful six months of competition culminating in this British Championship, took part in the middleweight division and had three matches on the day.

Mark Franklin wins his final

His first win came via a submission in the quarter final where he used a modified Ezekiel choke half way through the match to secure victory. He then came head to head with a tough opponent in the semi-final which saw the match go full time and Stuart win on points 10-5. Stuart gave everything he had left in the final against a high level opponent but unfortunately lost on points, bringing home Silver in his first British Championship.

Conrad added: ‘This is the most prestigious Championship in the UK and the first time any of this squad had competed in the Gi version of it. There were some very hard fought matches throughout the two day event which ultimately proved everyone deserved to be there. I am proud of all of them for stepping up to face the best in Britain.’

The overall medal count was:
1 x Gold
3 x Silver
3 x Bronze