Fighters from Gracie Barra Hastings have returned with six medals from the All Stars Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Southern Pro tournament writes Rob Griffin.

The team claimed five silver medals and a bronze at the competition, which was held at the Hornchurch Sports Centre in East London.

Zak Horsley got off to a flying start in the purple belt, no-gi, under 85kg division. He was already 21 points ahead in his first fight – before catching his opponent in an arm triangle!

He then went on to lose a close, technical match, on points but came second overall.

Craig Namvar then added to the medal haul with silvers in both the blue belt, gi, 79.5kg masters 3 category and blue belt, no-gi, masters 1 division.

Dan Young won his first fight in the blue belt absolute division via points before losing his second, also on points, to the division’s eventual winner.

He then won his first bout in the blue belt, no-gi, masters super heavyweight by guillotine in just 23 seconds. Unfortunately, he lost the final but took home the silver medal.

Samuli Antonen won his opening fight in the blue belt, no-gi under 73kg category with a guillotine – and his second on points.

Unfortunately, he was caught with a rear naked choke in the final but took home a well-deserved silver medal.

Finally, Ben Campbell narrowly lost his first match in the blue belt, gi, absolute division by two points – but won his next against an ultraheavyweight to secure the bronze.

Paul Bridges, head instructor at GB Hastings, was delighted with another strong performance from the academy’s competition team: “They make us all very proud every time they put it on the line,” he said. “Their dedication on the mats is being rewarded by their results.”

GB Hastings, which is affiliated to the international Gracie Barra organisation, is focused on both self-defence and competition training.

It runs classes for all ages and abilities. Anyone interested should ring Bridges on: 07967 659867 or visit www.graciebarrahastings.com.