GOLD AT 2022 GTA CLASSIC!
Updated: Sep 15, 2022
ETOBICOKE – This past Sunday (11 September 2022), the Ontario Jiu-Jitsu Association hosted its annual 2022 GTA Classic at the Etobicoke Olympium, Etobicoke. Three athletes representing both Grey-Bruce County and Kilian Academy participated in the Open.
Forty-two-year-old Abrie Kilian, Program Director at Kilian Academy and Sauble resident, competed in the Masters 1 (30 years and older) Medium Heavy Weight Division and took gold in his first tournament since January 2018. Kilian who fought against athletes in a younger age bracket, dominated the purple belt division, proving that age should not be a factor when competing at Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.
Owen Sound resident, Michael Butt (46), competed in the Masters 2 (40 years and older) Middle Weight Division and secured gold with a flawless performance in the White Belt Division. “Michael’s performance was the performance of the day, applying his game plan to win all his matches by submission.” Added Kilian.
Brad Robertson (49), another Owen Sound resident, was able to secure silver in his maiden blue belt tournament in the Masters 2 (40 years and older) Middle Weight Division. “Brad was awarded his blue belt four months ago, after training BJJ for almost 3 years. His performance was exceptional, losing by points against his opponent in the finals.” Stated Abrie Kilian.
All three athletes used the GTA Classic as a dress rehearsal for the Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro Tour, which will take place in Niagara on the 15th of October. The AJP Tour is one of the premier tournaments in Canada with gold medalists considered Canadian Champions. Kilian Academy athletes are looking forward to representing Grey-Bruce County at this year's AJP Tour in Niagara.
“Sean and Alec Wildeboer, athletes at Kilian Academy, were crowned champions in the adult white belt division last year. Their performance has inspired the Academy and our community to add to the list of Canadian Champions. We hope that our community will rally behind our athletes to recognise Grey Bruce as serious contenders in the BJJ annual tournament circuit.”
External Links
1. Sept 13/22 Bayshore Broadcasting Sports by Bayshore Broadcasting Sports