Gabriel Almada 
The PBJJF held another great event in Maryland. Last weekend, the Federation promoted the Baltimore Summer Open and provided another important chapter for the growth of Jiu-Jitsu in the city. The tournament brought together competitors from the kids, adult and master categories in both gi and nogi modalities. The event was a real festival of the sport and impressed the local community.
The standout of the event was black belt Lucas Montalvão. Lucas won double gold in the adult black belt division and also secured the no-gi title. Lucas is a promising young Jiu-Jitsu fighter and has excelled in the main competitions. He has been a member of the sport’s elite since December last year, when he was graded by multi-champion Max Gimenis.
In an interview with VF Comunica, Lucas Montalvão evaluated his performance in the championship and praised the Federation for the structure of the event.
“I was happy with my performance, I did well in the championship and managed to finish the four fights I competed in. The PBJJF always surprises with some innovation at each event. My students and I really enjoyed taking part in this championship. The event is an example of organization, cleanliness and this time they came with new tatami mats and very nice medals too,” says the absolute champion.
As well as being a formidable competitor, Lucas is the head coach of the Ground Control Columbia school, based in Maryland. The team is one of the strongest in the region and this has been confirmed in the championships. The team came second in the adult no-gi standings at the Baltimore Summer Open. Lucas analyzes the development of Jiu-Jitsu in the region and is optimistic about encouraging the sport in Maryland.
“Jiu-Jitsu has grown a lot here in the United States, especially in Maryland. The gyms are always full and there are more people wanting to learn BJJ,” the black belt shares.
Lucas Montalvão has a promising future ahead of him. He is an aggressive fighter who is always looking for the finish. In addition, he has a skillful Jiu-Jitsu that usually complicates his opponents.
