This past weekend was a thrilling chapter in our Brazilian Jiu Jitsu journey at Otomi Martial Arts and Caio Terra BJJ. Our team was well-represented by three outstanding athletes—Austin Almstad, Barrett Hayes, and Eric Hayes. Their dedication, grit, and love for the art of BJJ shone through, and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate their performances.
A Strong Start at Pitt Boss: Austin and Barrett Shine in Castle Rock
The day began at the first-ever Pitt Boss Kids BJJ Tournament, hosted at The Rock Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Castle Rock, Colorado. Among the fierce competition, two of our younger athletes, Austin Almstad and Barrett Hayes, stepped onto the mats with unwavering determination.
Austin showcased his skill and tenacity in both the Gi and No-Gi divisions. With back-to-back matches, he proved unstoppable, winning every bout by submission and bringing home two well-deserved gold medals. His technical proficiency and relentless drive were a testament to the countless hours he’s put into refining his craft.
Not to be outdone, Barrett Hayes also had a stellar showing. Competing in the Gi division, Barrett dominated each of his matches, securing submission victories one after the other. His hard work culminated in yet another gold medal for our team, further solidifying his reputation as a young force to be reckoned with.
Fight to Win Pro: Barrett and Eric Take on Denver
The excitement continued as we transitioned from the morning’s tournament to the evening’s Fight to Win Pro event in Denver. Both Barrett and his father, Eric Hayes, had the honor of representing Otomi Martial Arts on this prestigious stage.
Barrett stepped up first, and he wasted no time making a statement. Facing a skilled opponent from Prime BJJ in Colorado Springs, Barrett executed a flawless triangle to armbar submission, securing victory in under a minute. His performance not only showcased his technical prowess but also his ability to remain calm under pressure—truly a remarkable achievement for such a young competitor.
Then came Eric, our seasoned warrior and proud father. Competing against a tough opponent from a local Renzo Gracie affiliate, Eric displayed incredible technique and heart throughout the match. While the bout ended in a decision loss, Eric’s dedication and sportsmanship were on full display, reminding us all that true victory lies in the journey and the lessons learned along the way.
Join the Journey: Your Free Trial Awaits
This weekend was a celebration of skill, perseverance, and family. Watching Austin, Barrett, and Eric represent our academy on the mats was an inspiring reminder of the power of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu to bring people together—whether they’re competing for medals or sharing in the support of one another’s growth.
If you’ve ever wondered whether BJJ is the right path for you or your family, there’s no better time to start. Whether you’re interested in learning self-defense, improving your fitness, or becoming part of a supportive community, we’re here to help you take that first step.
Call or text us at (720) 926-5122 to schedule your free trial class, or simply use our convenient online link here. We’d love to welcome you to our Otomi Martial Arts family!
As always, we are grateful for the opportunity to train alongside such incredible athletes and families. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we look forward to celebrating many more successes together on and off the mats.
