The Sunninghill No Gi Open attracted its biggest field yet this past weekend, with competitors travelling from Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) gyms as far afield as Sasolburg to compete at QuanWessels.

The growing turnout has positioned the tournament as more than a neighbourhood event, with competitors from outside Sunninghill joining local grapplers on the mats. One of the most notable developments was the increase in first-time competitors in the baby champs division, which caters for children aged three to seven.

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The tournament saw a wave of young children and their families experience competitive grappling for the first time, with nerves, excitement and plenty of encouragement from the sidelines.

For coach Guy Lazarus, the growing number of young competitors was one of the highlights of the event. “Seeing so many of our baby champs step onto the mats for the first time this past weekend was incredible. That’s where the future of this sport is being built. It’s that first moment and exposure that turn into a positive experience for the kids. That shows they can overcome the nerves and do the thing.”

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The growth among younger competitors comes as BJJ continues to attract participants across different age groups, with events such as the Sunninghill Open providing an opportunity for newcomers to experience competition in a structured environment.

Organisers are now preparing for the next event on the local grappling calendar, the Sunninghill Gi Open, which will be held at QuanWessels on October 24.

Entries for the Gi Open are already open, with organisers indicating that further details about a special addition to the event will be announced soon.

Competitors can enter through Smoothcomp at Smoothcomp.com.

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