NAGA Columbus - 1rst Place

On Father's day weekend I had the opportunity to compete in my first NAGA event in Columbus, OH. I took home the Gold in the Adult Gi 150-159.9lbs division. I also placed 2nd in the Masters division but can't claim any credit for it since there were only two people in the division and I lost due to an Ezekiel Choke from within my opponent's guard.

I hadn't learned the Ezekiel Choke yet and as such I didn't recognize what was going on when it was being applied. I just thought he had one hand deep in my collar and that I wasn't in any danger unless he went for the other collar to perform a traditional cross collar choke. It felt like it was just a controlling ploy until he reached around my head, grabbed his own gi at his arm, and then squeezed. No biggie, I'll just stack him and apply pressure at his neck until he lets go - nope, didn't happen that way! While stacking him I was reaching for his collar to pull myself in tight over his head - but before I could finish executing I passed out on top of the guy. So yes, you can bet your @$$ that I'll be learning what Mr. Ezekiel Choke can do for me in the future and how to defend against it!!!

Being my first NAGA event and didn't really know what to expect. I was impressed with the overall logistics of the event and had a great time. It was another great learning experience and plan to compete again in the near future!!