Ak Fauzi Pg Salleh
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
BUSIIDO Brazilian Jiu-jitsu (BJJ) club head coach Eazy Anuar believes that Brunei is a force to be reckoned with as his charges made a big impact at yesterday's Copa de Bangkok BJJ tournament winning three gold, two silver and four bronze medals.
Eazy, who led the eight-athlete team, delivered a star performance winning gold in the purple belt weight category before dominating the absolute event (combined weight classes) where he fared against bigger international opponents.
“We proved that we are capable of going against athletes who have competed in world stage, and the Worlds Masters will prove us that soon,” said Eazy in an interview with BruSports as he sets his sight on the bigger prize, the World Masters in Vegas in August.
“We have made an impact in this tournament and we also have marked that Brunei is a force to be reckoned with in this sport… and I believe that our athletes need more recognition and support," he added.
Eazy (C) on top of the podium with his two gold medals. Picture: Courtesy of Busiido BJJ Club
Dk Norfaziah Abas also shone at the Chantanayingyong Indoor Stadium in Bangkok winning gold in weight event and bronze in the absolute category.
Abi Umamah Ali contributed one silver and one bronze while Hj Abdul Hadi Bakir won the other silver medal. Nobel Lee and Malek Ali claimed the other bronzes.
“As a whole, the team did well... and of course there are areas that need to be improved, but that's what competitions are for… to spot these flaws and fix it," said Eazy.
“Competition is something you can get good at only when you compete more… so this is a stepping stone regardless of the result,” he added.
Eazy swept all bouts in his category with most matches by more than double figures.The head coach was very pleased that his strategy paid off at the competition.
“I stuck to the same strategy (from last time) with heavy grinding pressure, staying calm and focused, and only pass once they're fatigued.
“We had a plan for this competition and sometimes it is easy to divert when you get too excited and I believe that strong mental focus nullifies that," he continued.
Eazy (L) being declared the winner. Picture: Courtesy of Busiido BJJ Club
The one-day tournament attracted international full time BJJ and MMA athletes from whole of Asia, Europe and Russia.
“The level of the tournament was high... you are up against people who train full time (MMA camps) and as well as national team members from all over, and for us to be able to step up to the occasion, it was quite an achievement and we must be on the right track," said Eazy.
“This victory meant a lot to me personally as I was going through a lot of trials and tribulations… it was emotional for me, so I dedicate my double gold to triumphing that,” he concluded.
