Fighters from the React Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academy, in Horwich, enjoyed a successful trip to Urmston last weekend as they participated in the All Stars Northern Pro 2024 competition.

The team performed brilliantly in both the junior and adult competitions and returned to their Bolton base with a hoard of medals.

Head instructor and experienced black belt, Ian Ingleson, only launched the academy in April and for so many of his students to battle their way onto the podium reflects both the quality of instruction and the team-first attitude he has quickly created.

“We had a fantastic day at the All Stars BJJ competition. There were some absolutely amazing performances from the entire team. I couldn’t be prouder,” Ingleson said.

The club’s junior members fought extremely well.

Hashim Shazad took gold in the under-27kg division, while in the over-65kg category, Jacob Fairclough had a busy day, winning gold in the GI competition and silver in the NO GI tournament.

Clara Thompson won medals in the under-46kg and under-55kg divisions and then entered the boys’ absolute division - which includes competitors from all weight classes - where she dominated and claimed an impressive gold.

There were silver medals for Corey Lawson, Ross White and Jack Marsh, who won his first fight with a nicely executed arm bar.

The adults had an equally successful day.

Darren Bramhall submitted all of his opponents in the masters’ division and won gold at 88kg. while Harris Imran took top honours at 58kg.

Martin Sleeman went home with a pair of silver medals, as did Sean Toland, who participated in both Gi and NO GI categories. Karol Wegrzyn also fought his way to a number of victories.

Although medals are not the be all and end all, they are a tangible reward for the months of hard work and discipline it takes to be successful in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

And earning medals in every age group and every weight category is proof the system works.

The team will now continue their training and begin building towards a successful 2025.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is an outstanding tool for building fitness and confidence and can also provide some invaluable self defence tips.

Anyone interested in joining the React team or even just taking a taster session, can view a full timetable at the website at www.reactbjj.co.uk or email contact@reactbjjacademy.co.uk for full details.