Fantastic Seminar Weekend
Big thanks to Mr. Harris, Richard North, and the members of South Bay Jiu Jitsu Club for making the journey to Bend. The seminar was a great success: I taught for an hour and a half on reversing position from sidemount, taking the back, and some of my favorite guard attacks. Mr. Harris gave the students a more conceptual and drill oriented lesson on open guard control, and options for dealing with vulnerable positions.
The entire seminar was filmed, including Jimmy’s DaSilva’s purple belt test. Jimmy, and his uke Nathan, performed a very tight, very fluid demonstration of what the purple belt requires, including basic techniques, combinations, and a lengthy rolling session (with 2 blue belts, and 2 black belts). Everyone watching was inspired, and realized just how deep this art actually is. Belts are earned here. But you really wouldn’t want it any other way. We celebrated at Staccato’s that evening.
Sunday I was able to roll with all the Southern California visitors, while Mr. Harris golfed at Pronghorn, and later, the SBJJC crew went rafting on the Deschutes river. I hope that this trip was enticing enough to bring them back next year, and perhaps make this an annual event.
It was a truly enjoyable semiar with great people! Although my body complained the next day it was well worth it. I too hope we can make this a regular event.
Rick Ellis from Maui
on Monday, June 04, 2007
I’m so glad that I was able to make the trip to Bend. The seminars were incredible and rolling with Mr. Dean was something I won’t forget. Bend is a beautiful city with so much to see. Rafting was really fun. The dinner at Staccato’s was great. I only wish we could’ve stayed longer. I hope to make it up there again. Thanks again to all!
Randy Younis from Chula Vista, CA
on Monday, June 04, 2007