Nothing beats learning from the pros so, here at GiReviews.net, we take the time to interview and learn more from those who have already achieved much in their careers.
Nathiely de Jesus, Habrok Sports’ newest addition, is a two-time IBJJF World Champion and a leading role model for the Jiu Jitsu community.
Exactly what does it take to be the best of the best in jiu jitsu? Let’s find out…
We had the chance to interview one of Elite Sports‘ team members, BJJ fighter Sa’idah Zeinab Durkee.
Sa’idah grew up and was the only American, along with her sister, in the area. She speaks English, Arabic and some French. She had been active in sports since she was young and did gymnastics, horseback riding, taekwondo, swimming, snowboarding and soccer.
She started BJJ training in March 2015 and got her blue belt in August 2016, training under Abmar Barbosa and Isaac July Jr. in Washington, DC. A month and a half after claiming her belt, she competed and won gold in her division at the IBJJF No-Gi Pan Ams. She continues training 6 to 7 days a week to reach her ultimate goal of becoming a World Champion.
We are very excited to have Sal, and his company, Habrok Sports with us today to have a bit of a chat about his vision, drive and passion for starting a new BJJ brand. We bounce around a bit, but I hope his message comes across loud and clear. The guy has a heart of gold and a real passion for BJJ and the manufacturing business.
Recently I corresponded with Blayne Barlow, owner of Ctrl Industries, and make of one of my favorite gis, the Rook. A while back I posted a comparison photo on our Facebook page because I noticed that Ctrl and Shoyoroll were both coming out with Raiders inspired gis at the same time. I was curious as to what everybody thought about each of them and I got a really cool comment:
Brendon Barlow (awesome first name if I do say so) made a great point. While it wasn’t my intention to suggest one copied the other, it did make me realize that these two brands are absolute professionals. Lots of startup brands are rushing their concepts and design and you can definitely tell in their product (myself included).
But people like Blayne don’t.
It got me wondering exactly how long it takes for him to work on a concept and where he got his inspiration for his upcoming gi, the Journeyman.