Open Mat Bermuda secured two medals at the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation Pan Championship, which concluded in Kissimmee, Florida, on Sunday.

Michael Walsh and Sydney Mason both battled through deep, highly skilled divisions to secure the medals. The club described their display as a showcase of grit, composure and world‑class technique on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

Mason savoured the experience of picking up a medal with a bigger group of fighters.

“It was my first time with the team as big as it was, but it was not my first time competing with the team,” Mason told The Royal Gazette.

“I got a medal in my first year competing, but this medal just feels better. I actually went further than the last time, I fought three times and I won two of my fights.

“I went last year but it didn’t go as well as I didn’t get a medal. It was really good this time around and I felt really happy to have the support of the team.

“I think that was the main thing that I really appreciated this year, is that the team just felt way closer and they were all really supportive of helping me train, leading up to it, and I was really grateful for that.”

Mason, who represented Bermuda in gymnastics before taking up jujitsu, credited the coaches for her success.

“I would like to give a special shout out to my coaches, Chris Regan and Aaron Dyer, for being really supportive,” she said.

“I was nervous going into this competition because I went up to a class that I’m not usually in. That made me feel really anxious but Mr Regan was really supportive, he gave me a lot of advice and I’m just grateful for his help.

“It was my first competition at purple belt so I wasn’t sure what to expect and the women out there didn’t disappoint. All of them were immensely tough and skilled. I’m really grateful that I had the opportunity to compete among them.

“It was also great to have Reina Maypa in the team. She’s my training partner and she’s the one that pushes me every day.”

Besides the medals, several important competitive milestones were recorded for the team, with two fighters making their debut.

Lonnie Bascome stepped onto the mats for the first time as a black belt, winning his opening match by points in what was described as a poised and disciplined performance.

Keegan Dyer made her debut in the adult division, subduing her first opponent in impressive fashion and demonstrating she belongs among the sport’s rising competitors.

Coach Dyer was pleased with the effort put in by the club’s 14 fighters at the five-day event.

“Across the board, Open Mat athletes faced exceptionally tough matches, but each competitor represented the academy with heart, professionalism and undeniable skill,” Dyer said.

“The team returned home proud, motivated and already preparing for the next challenge.”