We don’t hand out BJJ belt promotions very often at our small town club. But last weekend’s promotions were extra special because Alex, Chip and David are our first home-grown BJJ brown belts! ❤️ Alex was our first regular when the club opened in 2017 (in a small town club, that means he was often the only guy on the mats!) Thankfully, Chip joined a few months later in early 2018 as part of a remarkable health transformation. By coincidence, David began his training at another club around the same time as Chip and joined Solarte as a white belt in Feb. 2019.
Over the years, they have gone through many life changes and challenges: births, deaths, career shifts, moves, injuries, chronic illnesses, surgery…things that often cause people to quit. But they kept going. They’ve remained devoted to those dear to them, yet they have also made time to train, to continue learning AND to help others at some little club in the middle of nowhere. They’re mad men in the best possible way. I couldn’t be prouder to see them promoted to brown by 10th Planet black belt, Brian Williamson. I want to thank Brian and everyone—families, friends and teammates—who have supported Alex, Chip and David’s journeys as they grow into deeper roles as instructors. Congratulations!!!
Photos by Chandra C. Photography