10 Feb Marc is given Gracie Academy GJJ Black Belt w/ Instructor Bars
On Saturday January 31st 2015 I received the great honour of being awarded the Black Belt in Gracie Jiu Jitsu with instructor bars from the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy Ryron and Rener Gracie for my work in learning the Academy’s curriculum, techniques, and teaching methods. It is a much welcomed additional acknowledgement in my quest to share this art. I would like to first thank Ryron and Rener for their outstanding work in being leaders in the important dialogue about bullying against kids, women’s personal safety, self defense and competition in the Jiu Jitsu world, the world of martial arts, and society in general. Sharing the philosophies, principles, mindset and work ethic of your grandfather, father and uncles before you. Thank you for sharing these lessons with me. Next I would like to thank all of my training partners and students, who I learn a lot from everyday, and everyone else I have come across in my Jiu Jitsu journey. The amazing staff at the Gracie Academy, Victor Camacho-Guillot and Sarah Oldfield, two totally outstanding and great people. Also to the people that helped the school run smoothly while I was away; Ray Dupree and the supporting crew you guys were greatly appreciated and I couldn’t have done it without your dedication! Finally a thank you to my wife, who gives me the most support in the world, and believes in me so much that it makes me believe in myself through all of the extra hours and focus. I love you! Check out the link below to see Rener’s post on instagram: #learning #honour#GrandmasterHelio #GrandmasterCarlos #GJJ #unite #BJJ #respect #one#community #family