In one week I will be returning to Canada, and so I think it is fitting that yesterday I was baptized here in Brazil with my first, pretty black eye as a goodbye gift.
The training has been difficult, to say the least, and yesterday was my hardest day yet. After practicing Robert´s technique for the day -- a half-guard manoevre to take the back, with defense and complicated take-down included, we began roughly 2 hours of sparring. The mats were packed; this weekend there is a competition in neighbouring Jundiai, and many students from that city have been out to train with us.
My first match was with Zoio. He is an excellent opponent for me -- very technical and pushes me decently hard. His legs are huge, like Rowan´s, so I feel right at home! Next up, the young, agile black belt, Juninho. I have never been choked out so many times, or so hard, in one match before. After much rest, I sparred with a purple belt who was pushing me pretty hard, then accidentally kicked me in the head. He apologized profusely in Portuguese, and I tried my best to assure him I was fine. Then, he let me take his back, which infuriated me. The dynamics between men and women on the mats have yet to be ironed out, though I find I receive more equal treatment in Canada. I love my good-old Dave Keddy who will kick me in the head and then treat me like any other guy and promptly tie me in an omoplata!
Last week, a student from England arrived. His name is Kai and is a very good bjj athlete. He has only been training 2 years, but he is fast and natural at the sport. He has shown me some details already, and I will hopefully get to spar with him soon.
Tonight, I am training with Michelle and Robert´s trainer, Lineu. For the past 2 months, he has been showing me weight exercises specifically for bjj. I am thankful to him for helping me strengthen my back and improve my cardio. Between sets of weight lifts, he has me skipping, which is completely gruelling. I love it. Furthermore, I´ve got a serious crush on the man, which always helps me get through the routine.
Today, I am resting. I don´t know how Michelle and Robert train the way they do -- most days with Lineu´s workouts included. Genetics and age play a huge role, I am supposing. I am definitely feeling my 30 years and mild asthma. I keep thinking of my heroes, Randy Couture and Rebecca Sweeney. They push me to continue in this crazy sport.
