SCOTTS Head tyro Jace McMurray has continued his rise in the Brazilian jiu jitsu (BJJ) ranks, with an eye-catching display at the national titles in Sydney.
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The 11-year-old walked away with a bronze medal in his division (advanced 11-14 years) at the ADCC (Abu Dhabi Combat Club) national submission tournament.
And it could have been even better than that – as his first fight, against a youngster from the Gold Coast who went on to be crowned champion – hung on a knife-edge.
Jace was looking comfortable in the opening bout, being ahead on points, only to lose position in the final 10 seconds.
But from that point, the yellow belt was well in control of his remaining matches – winning the second bout after catching his opponent in a triangle (choke hold).
In the third and final fight, Jace locked his opponent in an arm bar to secure the win.
Jace’s father Troy said around 250 youngsters competed at the tournament.
“Competing against much more experienced kids from big BJJ acadamies in Sydney and Melbourne, he handled it very well, gained some great experience and learned some valuable lessons,” Troy said.
“I’m a bit disappointed but it’s all part of learning,” Jace told the Guardian.
“I’m probably going to try and be more aggressive in the future,” he said.
The Year 6 student won’t have long to wait for more top tier competition, with the NSW State titles on June 30.