In recent years the Old Continent has become a strong center for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu outside of Brazil. Countries like Sweden, France, England, Portugal, Spain and Finland have many academies and ever growing teams. In order to unite European practitioners in one place to officially organize and develop the sport of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the continent, IBJJF and CBJJ created the European Championship of Jiu-Jitsu.
The first edition of the event was held in 2004 in the historical city of Lisbon, Portugal. Since then the tournament has grown and become stronger, establishing itself as the most important BJJ event in Europe and attracting competitors of all ages and belts. Such prestige has turned the event into a sure stop for black belt superstars like Roger Gracie, Ronaldo Jacare and Mario Reis, among many others.
The 2009 European Open Jiu-Jitsu Championship tournament will take place on January 30th 31st and February 1st in “Complexo Municipal Esportivo do Casal Vistoso”, Rua João Silva, Lisboa, Portugal. It is an open event and all athletes of any citizenship are welcome to compete; trials are not required.
In addition to the regular competition divisions, there will also be a teams match. The macthes will be between adult blue, purple, brown and black belt teams, male only, each country is allowed one team per each weight division. Each team is composed of five competitors, the first team to reach three victories will win the round.
If you would like to register for this event or would like more information about this and other Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitions around the world, visit the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s website at www.ibjjf.org.