ATOS Cebu Jiu Jitsu starts strong in the first day of the Dumau Asia Pacific International Jiu Jitsu Championships with an initial medal tally of 15 gold medals, 13 silvers and 8 bronze medals for a total of 152 points.
Two of their gilts came from Sandino Cinco and Mechelle Zapanta, who dominated in the Male Blue Master Light Feather and Female White Master Rooster, respectively.
The seasoned blue belt champion, Cinco, won his championship match against Marvin Lim of Pato Studio via a double leg take down.
First time competitor, Zapanta, fought against a tough opponent in the championship match, Nadine Hazelene of Over Limit Jiu Jitsu Association, who defended against Zapanta’s choke attempts well. Zapanta bested Hazelene by points via guard pass.
The Cebu-based team, headed by coach Leo Gaerlan, is a mix of old and new competitors of the tournament. “I’m very excited about how they showcase their skill and performance this upcoming Dumau,” he said.
Coach Gaerlan, who won 2nd place in the Male Purple Adult Light, said he is more confident with how the team will perform this year compared to his previous tournaments because of the diverse and constructive program they do for all competitors and non-competitors in the team. The team is set to compete for the no-gi competitions in the second day of the tournament.
Atos Cebu Jiu Jitsu also won gold in the Male Blue Master Rooster Division care of Lemuel Maglinte who won against Paul Christian Hubahib of Overlimit Jiu Jitsu Association in the championship match.
Deftac Ribeiro stands at the top in the first day of the tournament with a 16-12-11 medal haul.