By Jonathan Brown
TEAM Torres Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Club in Castlewellan recently celebrated remarkable levels of success at the Empire Grappling All-Ireland Open, held in Newry Leisure Centre on Saturday 28 March.
The event featured 700 martial arts competitors from Ireland and beyond, with five Team Torres members medalling.
Bouts were split into Gi and No-Gi categories – Gi bouts feature the heavy martial arts uniform known as a kimono and allows opponents to execute a wide variety of gripping techniques, while No-Gi fights take place without wearing a kimono and both competitors are prohibited from gripping their opponent’s clothing.
16-year-old Cameron Mooney took centre stage, winning gold in both the Gi and No-Gi categories of the Juvenile division.
Cameron was also awarded Juvenile Player of the Tournament.
double medallist Phiah Doran.
Phiah Doran, aged 15, took Gi gold and No-Gi bronze in the Teen division, while 10-year-old Henry Brown took Junior 1 Gi silver.
In the Master division, Cormac Nellis became an All-Ireland champion after taking Gi gold and No-Gi bronze, while Paul Boden came home with Gi silver and No-Gi bronze.
The Team Torres club has been running in the Castlewellan Community Centre for over four years, teaching the combat sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, with members ranging from age five to 55.
Founder and head coach Eamonn Binks runs Team Torres alongside fellow coach Ciaran Harper and Eamonn’s daughter, Kaitlyn, children and teen coach.
Eamonn, speaking after Team Torres recent success, said the club are more than happy to accept new members.
“Team Torres promote competition, selfdefence, discipline, resilience, stress relief, selfconfidence, fitness and a friendly atmosphere in a safe environment.
“We have competitors and casual students all training under one roof and we welcome new students from all backgrounds, ages and abilities.
“We run classes for kids, teens, beginner adults and experienced adults, so there’s something for everyone.”
If you are interested in joining Team Torres, get in touch via the club’s Instagram or Facebook pages.
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