Jiu-jitsu: Island club gains two new British champions

Academy enjoys success at BJJ British Open

An Isle of Man martial arts club has gained two new British champions after a successful campaign off-Island this month.

Summit Grappling Academy members, Sorelle Williams and Marco Ferrara took wins in their respective classes to claim national titles at the BJJ British Open at Warwick University on 16-17 May.

For Williams, it was a move up to a new belt for this competition having tasted success last year and this time fought back from a first round loss with two submission wins.

Meanwhile, Ferrara was making his debut at the event in 2026, claiming his gold medal after an assured performance which led to a points victory.

The winning duo were part of a 22-strong squad the academy took to the British Open which featured Island athletes at senior and junior level.

Also putting in standout performances were Maisie Meban, Israel Khalil, Noah Glover and Esther Patterson who all won silver medals in their respective events.