From our friends at the Times Journal
Russell County’s Jacob Roy to represent USA at world jujitsu competition
RUSSELL COUNTY — A familiar face to local customers is preparing to represent the United States on an international martial arts stage.
Jacob Roy, identified in a local social media announcement as one of the people serving customers at RJ, is representing the USA at the World Sport Jujitsu League’s world competition in Guatemala, according to the post.
The event is scheduled for Oct. 9–11 in Santo Domingo Xenacoj, Guatemala, with weigh-ins and a rules meeting planned for Oct. 8, according to the published tournament itinerary.
The local announcement celebrated Roy’s work leading up to the competition and encouraged supporters to cheer him on.
“We couldn’t be more proud of Jacob and all the hard work he’s put in to get here,” the post stated. “It’s so exciting to watch him chase his dreams and represent our country on an international stage!”
The tournament’s opening day is scheduled to include a parade through Santo Domingo Xenacoj, opening ceremonies and the start of competition. Friday’s program includes children’s grappling, team demonstrations, team combat sport jujitsu and team grappling.
Individual competition for children, teenagers and adults begins Saturday. The event offers divisions in combat sport jujitsu, grappling, self-defense, empty-hand and weapons forms, point fighting and stick fighting. Gold-medal rounds and awards are scheduled for Sunday, followed by a closing banquet in Antigua Guatemala.
The World Sport Jujitsu League says its mission includes promoting traditional jujitsu, continuous-action sparring and combat jujitsu while building international friendships through competition. The organization was formed to continue the martial arts legacy of Professor Tony “The Bear” Maynard.
Back home, the message for Roy was one of encouragement as he prepares to compete.
“Good luck, Jacob! We’ll be watching, cheering you on, and rooting for you every step of the way!” the announcement stated.
