Great Tournament in Nixa, Missouri

Hey Gang,

The Golden Lion Open in Nixa, Missouri turned out to be one of the biggest turnouts we have had over the past two seasons. All together there were over 100 competitors. We had a huge kid's turnout and a large adult turnout to test their skills on the mat and get a chance to roll outside their own Dojo's. Out of our school we had 3 competitors. I want to thank Danny Fraser, Pete Ramsey and Jessica Clanton for coming out in support and helping organize and run the two rings, without them there would be no tournament. I can't begin to explain how important this is in running a grappling tournament. The Jiu-Jitsu was at a high level and as busy as we were running the show we saw some amazing talent. Congratulations to our competitors who won the following;

Hunter "The Phenom" McCutcheon, 7-8 boys beginner class -2nd Gi, 3rd NoGi; Hunter performed so well and fought very hard, I have never had a student his age progress so well and have a greater desire to learn and pay attention, can't wait to see what he will do with more time.

Will Potts, 13-14 boys beginner class, 1st Gi, 1st No-Gi; Will pulled off a sweet triangle in his final match in nogi it was awesome, he fought like it was payday. We really need to think of a nickname for Will, suggestions are welcome. Will also won all his exhabition matches.

Ty Holton, 13-14 boys advanced class, 1st Gi, 1st No-Gi; Ty pulled off a "Heaven and Earth" submission during his nogi match, the first I ever saw. He even taught it to the person he faught who wanted to learn it after the match, that is great sportsmanship. Ty went up against a huge 190 lbs, solid, 13 year old in an exhabition match losing to a wicked Kimura. Ty was the only competitor who stepped up to volunteer to fight him.

I am proud of everyone who came and helped out, Charlie and Celeste McCutcheon, Rob Yarborough. Can't wait for class, this is my last week on evening shift and I will be back for all classes.

Peace,.........and let's keep rollin'............