I traveled to Chicago for another IBJJF Chicago Open tournament. After signing up for the Master 6 division in hopes of having others join me, I had to drop down one age group to Master 5 because no one else signed up.
I was all ready to go and waiting in the bullpen for my first match, but the opponent never showed up. So, on to the final…
I could tell that my opponent must of had some wrestling background, as we fought each other for inside position. He did attempt a fireman’s throw a few times.
He went into turtle position when I sprawled to counter his last throw attempt. I was able to change position and eventually take his back for four points with a couple of minutes left. He had good back defense and the match ended with that for the final score, 4-0.
It was a small milestone as this was my thirtieth IBJJF Chicago Open championship finals victory!
I signed up for the open division, but lost the quarterfinal by referee’s decision. I stuffed the initial guard pull of my opponent and forced half guard. Later i flattened him out in his half guard as I attempted to pass. This should have resulted in an advantage point, which would have decided the 0-0 match. But, the official awarded my opponent the victory, most likely due to the last minute attempts at a hook sweep.
Later, I asked the official why my forcing half guard and flattening him out did not result in an advantage point. He replied that I was incorrect in that my opponent pulled to deep half from the very start. I thanked him for explaining. I guess he forgot how the match actually started. Oh well, I’m sure I’ve been on the receiving end of such mistakes in the past. We’re all human and things like this can be expected from time to time.
Either way, I am continually grateful to be able to compete and stay healthy!