FREE PRIVATE LESSON FOR CHILDREN WISHING TO COMPETE!


I'm thrilled to share an extraordinary opportunity from Brian Timmons, a distinguished figure in the martial arts community. Brian is extending an offer of complimentary private training sessions for children eager to compete but lacking the resources for private coaching.


Brian Timmons' Message:


"Hi! My name is Brian Timmons, and I am excited to offer free private training lessons for kids interested in competing in tournaments but who might not have the means to afford private lessons.


I will teach the kids tournament-tested techniques, rules, and legal moves appropriate for their age and belt level. I'll also assist in developing their game plans, all to maximize their chances of success in upcoming tournaments!


Sincerely,


Brian Timmons


We are indeed fortunate to have a leader like Brian dedicated to nurturing our youth's athletic potential. Here's a glimpse at Brian's impressive track record:


  • 4x Ontario Open Champion
  • 5x Ottawa Open Medalist
  • 4x NAGA Champion
  • IBJJF Toronto No-Gi Open Champion
  • ADCC Toronto Open Advanced Champion
  • Esteemed Gi and No-gi competitor
  • Champion in multiple tournaments across Canada and the USA
  • Over six years of competition experience at various skill and age levels
  • Holder of 40+ gold medals

Supporting the Fighting Chance Foundation:


While the lessons are free, we encourage you to consider a donation to the Fighting Chance Foundation, a not-for-profit organization founded by Nick and Mark. This foundation is dedicated to providing martial arts training opportunities to underprivileged children, fostering their development and success.


Enroll Your Child Today:


Don't miss this chance for your child to learn from one of the best! Brian will be conducting lessons from 9-11 AM this Saturday at the Barrhaven Martial Arts Centre. Available time slots are 9 AM, 9:30 AM, 10 AM, and 10:30 AM. Please respond to this email to secure a slot for your child.


Introducing the Fighting Chance Foundation: Empowering Youth Through Martial Arts


In a world where every child's potential should be nurtured, the Fighting Chance Foundation emerges as a beacon of hope and support. Founded by Nick Castiglia and Mark Holst, this visionary foundation is dedicated to breaking down barriers and providing opportunities for at-risk youth to engage in martial arts. The foundation's journey began several years ago, with aspirations to make a meaningful difference. Despite initial setbacks due to the global pandemic, the resilience and passion behind this cause have only strengthened.


Now, as our martial arts gyms flourish, it is the perfect moment to propel the Fighting Chance Foundation into action. The core mission of Fighting Chance is to offer support to young individuals whose families face financial constraints, preventing them from accessing martial arts training. This initiative recognizes the transformative power of martial arts in instilling discipline, confidence, and a sense of community among youth.


The scholarship program is designed with inclusivity at its heart, available for application by any school or individual who shares the vision of empowering children through martial arts. Founders Nick and Mark, blessed with the opportunity to train in martial arts from a young age thanks to their families' support, deeply understand the value of this experience. They are now committed to extending this privilege to those less fortunate, acknowledging that not every family has the means to offer their children this path to personal growth.


To sustain and expand its impact, the Fighting Chance Foundation is set to launch several fundraising initiatives within our schools and the broader community. These efforts aim to secure the necessary resources to provide as many children as possible with the 'fighting chance' they deserve to succeed and thrive.


Join us in supporting the Fighting Chance Foundation, where every contribution brings us one step closer to a future where every child can embrace the transformative journey of martial arts.



In House BJJ Tournament and No GI Challenge 


10 DAYS LEFT FOR EARLY BIRD REGISTER NOW!!


On Saturday April 20th we will be having an in house tournament for all of our students to get their feet wet before the OSS Jiu Jitsu championship in June.  For kids we will be doing gi only and round robin format to make sure the kids will get as many matches as possible.  


For adult white belts we will do single elimination as many weights as possible.


Blue Belt adults we will be doing a light group max 170lbs and a heavy group 170+.


We will also have an open No Gi Challenge for Blue Belts and up with a light group 170 and under and 170+. Registration will be $40 before April 10th and $50 after. Spectators are $10. 


Medals for first, second and third place sponsored by OSS


register here: in house registration




OSS Ottawa Jiu Jitsu Championship registration is now open!


It is with great pleasure to announce the OSS Ottawa Jiu Jitsu Championship 2024 . This will be a gi and NO GI tournament. We are working on a few exciting announcements which will be shared as soon as they are firmed up.


The most important thing right now is the early bird registration is until May 1st, It is only 70$ for kids and $80 for 16+. We will be reminding you often ;) The kids divisions will be running on a round robin format. If you have any questions ple



here is the link for registration: REGISTER HERE


Sincerely,


The OSS Team



Kids Wrestling workshop at Gracie Barra Ottawa East 


The next 3 Saturdays from 8:30am - 10am, we have Sergei from Montreal Wrestling Club running kids wrestling camp. There is NO cost, and we would like to invite any of the kids from all of the GB gyms to learn some wrestling fundamentals to advance their take down game.  The east location is located at 1977 st Joseph Blvd, Orleans just under Cora’s.


Women’s intro to Jiu Jitsu Program Starting April 3rd


Our women’s intro to Jiu Jitsu program is starting April 3rd. This year we are committed to the development of women in Jiu Jitsu. Our program will be lead by Coach Annika, a purple belt under Gracie Barra. If you have been thinking about starting Jiu Jitsu now is your chance in a super friendly environment. For more information just respond to this email and we will get you started in our six week course! 





Unleash Your Child's Summer Adventure - Early Bird Pricing Ends June 1st! Summer Camp Registration is now open for Barrhaven :)


Dear Parent's,


Get ready for a summer filled with adventure and learning at our exciting themed camps! Each week offers a unique, fun-filled experience for your child, with two martial arts lessons daily. And don't forget, our Early Bird pricing ends on June 1st! Save $50 per camp by registering now :)


Our Camp Themes:


  • Minecraft Mania and Retro Arcade: Delve into the history of video games and enjoy live-action games inspired by classic video games.


  • Wild Wild West (NERF WEEK): Learn about the Wild West and engage in cowboy-themed teamwork and martial arts.


  • Warriors of the World: Explore different cultures' warriors, from Samurai to Spartans, with a visit from a modern-day warrior.


  • Zombie Invasion (NERF WEEK): Test survival skills against a zombie invasion, with NERF activities and fun crafts.


  • Lego, Ninjago, and Beyblades: Enjoy Lego-building, Beyblade battles, and Spinjitsu duels, combined with ninja training.


  • Wild Water Week: A splash-filled week learning about hydration, the water cycle, and enjoying water battles.


  • Superheroes Unite: Embrace heroism, engage in superhero training, and meet real-life heroes like paramedics or police officers.


  • Star Wars: JEDI vs SITH: Train as Jedi with lightsaber making, Jedi exercises, and learn about compassion in our anti-bullying workshop.


  • NERF Wars: Prepare for an epic Nerf battle against alien Samurai warriors with team strategy and creative fun.


Don't miss this opportunity to give your child an unforgettable summer experience. Register now to take advantage of our special Early Bird pricing! register here at the link: REGISTER HERE



BRAZIL TRIP: RESERVE YOUR SPOT NOW for 2024!


Hello Everyone,


I'm really excited to tell you about our trip to Brazil this November. We're planning to take 16 people with us, and it's going to be a lot of fun.


We've got some cool things planned for the trip. We'll see beautiful waterfalls where you can swim, visit Master Carlos' Jiu-Jitsu School, and ride horses on the beach. Plus, and visit other Gracie Barra schools.


Master Carlos will spend time with us too. He's going to talk about his life in Jiu-Jitsu, how Gracie Barra started, and the challenges he faced. He'll share stories about growing up, learning from his Uncle Helio, and working with his brother Rolls. He'll also tell us about starting the first Gracie Barra school and the IBJJF. It's going to be amazing to hear all this from him.


We're booking spots for the trip now. If you want to join us and make some great memories, please respond to this email soon. Spaces are filling up fast!



Can't wait to see you in Brazil!


Take care,


"Papa" Nick Castiglia


REMINDERS:


New website and email for Gracie Barra City Centre!


Our new website address for city centre is http://www.gb-ottawa.com and our new email for headquarters in Ottawa is now info@gb-ottawa.com or graciebarraottawa@gmail.com both are monitored daily. Please save these as your go to for city centre location going forward.


Reminder of Gracie Barra Uniform protocol and Mark Holst Muay Thai Uniform Protocol


On January 1st we will be strictly enforcing our uniform protocol in all of our schools. Gracie Barra Gi, RashGuard or Rash Guard and Board shorts for no gi classes. Mark Holst Muay Thai Classes will be Mark Holst Muay Thai Shorts and T shirt. Please follow up with your instructors if you have any questions.