Jiujitsu is fast emerging as one of the exciting sports not only in the country but also in other parts of the world today.
No less than a visitor from Guam personality can attest to the sport’s popularity.
“Jiujitsu has just blossomed into a world-renowned sport not only in the Philippines and Guam but also in other parts of the globe,” said Steve Shimizu, president of Marianas Open International and a sports tourism advocate.
Shimizu said the rapid growth of the popular Japanese combat sport can be attributed to the all-out support of the sports officials – not to mention the excitement the sport generates especially during competitions.
Shimizu also had glowing words for Filipino jiujitsu athletes, saying: “One good thing about the Philippines is its athletes are very tough, knowledgeable, and courageous. And that’s the reason why we are here.”
Shimizu was so impressed with the staging of the Marianas Pro Manila tournament in Alabang on Sunday, April 6.
Organized by Asian Sport Jiu-Jitsu Federation (ASJJF) led by its Manila president Alvin Lee, the tournament, according to Shimizu, was very enriching. The event had also backing of Edison Kagohara, who heads the ASJJF.
“Our partners here, Alvin Lee, put up a great event,” said Shimizu, who is hoping that Guamanians would also become excellent fighters like the Filipinos.
Shimizu is hoping more Filipino athletes would compete in the Marianas Pro Taiwan from April 26 to 27, and Marianas Open International on October 18 in Guam for the grand finale where a prize pool of $50,000 will be up for grabs.
