Jon Calestine Seminar for Charity

written by Akbar Muhammed / photos by Edgar Rojas

On Sunday December 8th, a few short weeks before the holidays many were treated to an amazing seminar held at Renzo Gracie Fight Academy (RGFA) in Brooklyn, NY. The seminar was taught by Jon Calestine, a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Black belt under Daisuke Yamaji. He’s also an EBI champion, Kasai pro veteran, and is very well known for his masterful leg lock applications. The more than 60 attendees of the seminar were thrilled to get very detailed techniques, pointers, and insight into his guard game and leg lock entries. 

The seminar was not only a gift for those who attended but it also served as an important charity event. All of the proceeds from the seminar went to help bring joy and gifts this holiday season to many families and kids in poverty stricken neighborhoods in Columbia, South America. As I was told by the ladies of RGFA or ‘Prima’ (the name that represents them for their charitable efforts), this charity seminar was also a part of their second annual toy drive. Also noteworthy is that the toy drive is sponsored by the legendary Master Renzo Gracie himself! Last year’s drive was a big success and made a huge impact on the kids and families they intended to help. This year they expect it to be even bigger. 

As far as the seminar goes, once the awesome two hour technical portion concluded it ended with another hour of open mat style live rolling. Thanks to Jon Calestine and Prima it was a great day of Jiu Jitsu in Brooklyn, for an even greater cause.

For more information on how you can help or donate to this cause please contact RGFA.

RENZO GRACIE FIGHT ACADEMY
100 Bayard St
Brooklyn, NY 11222
Tel: 718.704.0631

http://renzogracie-fightacademy.squarespace.com/contact-us