Hill Airman competes in national tournament

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Robby Hedrick
  • 75 Air Base Wing Public Affairs
Tech. Sgt. Michael Keith, 729th Air Control Squadron, competed in the U.S. Open XIII Brazilian Jiu Jitsu "America's Favorite Tournament" Oct. 18 and 19 in Santa Cruz, Calif. 

Sergeant Keith competed in the senior white belt feather weight division against five other skilled competitors on his way to a second place victory. 

Keith prepared for the tournament through a grueling workout schedule that lasted two months, in addition to the already demanding physical training regime from the Air Force. 

"I was training BJJ for two to three hours a day, six days a week along with running three to five miles at least three days a week," said Sergeant Keith. "I also focused more on muscle condition rather than muscle building during these months." 

Sergeant Keith also used these exercises to help him cut weight down to 154 pounds while wearing the gi, a traditional uniform worn by Jiu Jitsu players, prior to his first match. Strict rules prohibit any removal of the clothing or extra time to lose weight at the initial weigh-in and only one opportunity to qualify. The slightest ounce over and he would have been disqualified. 

Sergeant Keith found a way to test his abilities competing in one of the most renowned tournaments in the United States with competitors from all states vying for the title. 

"I had an opportunity to test my training against opponents that have no idea what my particular style is," said Sergeant Keith. "It is the best way to learn about yourself, your technique and your training." 

With the rapid growth of mixed martial arts and Jiu Jitsu throughout the United States armed forces and sporting venues, Sergeant Keith said he would like to see the Air Force implement it into its own culture. 

"It would be great to see Hill Air Force Base and the Air Force as a whole get more behind these events and possibly sponsor a Jiu Jitsu tournament," said Sergeant Keith. "It would promote fitness, the warrior mentality and a venue for recruiters to disseminate information about the Air Force." 

Although all of his hard work paid off and he was rewarded with a medal for his efforts it didn't compare to representing Hill Air Force Base and the Mori Academy in Sunset, Utah. 

"It is always a great honor to go out and compete to represent Hill AFB and Mori Academy at these events," said Sergeant Keith.