By Danielle Kutchel
Skamma Gym in Narre Warren will play host to a world Brazilian jiu jitsu champion next month, when Peter de Been comes to town.
De Been, a fifth degree black belt under Carlos Gracie Jr, has competed in a number of competitions over his career and taken home his fair share of medals.
Among others he was the 1997 Pan Am Master Brown Belt Gold Medallist, and the 2004 International Super Fight Sao Paulo Winner.
He was the first non Brazilian to gain a black belt out of Brazil, and also founded Australia’s first jiu jitsu academy.
He’ll be visiting Skamma on Monday 2 September for a seminar on the sport, with both gym members and non-members welcome to attend.
Ivan Rakitic, a trainer at Skamma, said the team was looking forward to hosting Mr de Been.
He added that the visit complements Skamma’s program, where martial arts is a way of life.
“It’s not just a sport where we all do a thing; it’s also the self-defence side. It’s not just geared towards the athlete, it’s also for the young kid who may be getting bullied or having issues at school,” he said.
For more information or to book tickets, visit the Skamma Fight Club Facebook page.
