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| Joel enjoying choking me a little too much for my liking! |
Sitting at Starbucks with my morning coffee and books for my pre-work study session, all I can think about is that today will be my last BJJ (gi) session for 2010.
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| Sorry did someone say "walkies"?! |
While I really look forward to returning to beautiful Mama Africa, seeing my wonderful extended family, running on the beach with the dogs every morning and sun-downer drinks at the top of sand dunes I can't deny that I will miss rolling at the Labs.
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| The view at the top is always sweet! |
Yes Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is amazing, beautiful and wonderful but who we train with makes such a huge difference. I will miss those wonderful people who wrench my arms and legs and squeeze my neck more than the chokes, sweeps and armbars.
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| Graeme is thinking "Hmm...so if that's not your thumb?!" |
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| Dr Lam giving it some Buddha Power! |
I will not review this past year in terms of grappling skills nor set silly goals for the coming one. All I ever wanted is right there on those cold mats. All I could ever achieve is to step onto them every week and all I will remember is the smiles and handshakes of my friends.
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| So I like turtle necks. Bite me! |
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| All I want for Xmas is a half decent guard! |
Thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings here and commenting on them both here and on Facebook, Twitter and email.
Georgette,
Allie,
Slidey...too many names not to forget a few.
A huge thank you to all of those crazy creative types who participated in the
Crazy-Ass BJJ Gi Design Competition and to
Meerkatsu for involving me in it and to
Tatami Fightwear for sponsoring the event. Gareth tells me the winning gi is going to be every bit as amazing as expected. I can't wait!
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| Zzmash my fren! |
The year was an exciting and at times turbulent ride for us at the Labs. One moment we were out on our arses and the next we were all huddled together under one roof, on a small mat, surrounded by wooden swords and kettlebells. Today, we are proud members of
Fighting Fit, Manchester's Top Mixed Martial Arts facility. Thank you Ian, Martyn and Jay for having the heart, vision and drive to make this a reality. My love, respect and gratitude to you all.
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| Lab Rats!! Lab Rats!! |
Finally my sincere gratitude to all the wonderful and generous black belts we have had contact with and trained with this year: Mr Steve Campbell, Mr Italo Ferreira and of course Mr Eddie Kone and the rest of my extended family at
EKBJJ and
EKBJJ-North. I look forward to what 2011 will bring us all.
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| Ed and Liam could never agree on how to wrap the gi jacket! |
Have a wonderful Christmas and an amazing New Year.
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| To Infinity and Beyond. But first, bring on 2011 |
