From the left: Madeline Van Bruinessen is seen with coach Dan Gasser of Therien Martial Arts and Fitness Centre North Dundas in Winchester. She is to represent Canada at a world championship Brazillian jiu-jitsu tournament in early August in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Thompson Goddard Photo

CHESTERVILLE – 14-year-old Madeline Van Bruinessen from North Stormont has qualified in both Gi and No Gi divisions to represent Canada at a world championship Brazilian jiu-jitsu tournament in early August in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is described as a self-defense system which focuses on leverage and technique rather than simply strength. BJJ utilizes technique, timing and leverage in which the physical size of opponents has less importance than other martial arts.

Madeline’s mother Leslie explained in the Gi division the traditional kimono uniform is worn, with in the No Gi division competitors wear leggings and Rash Guard which is a specially designed athletic shirt.

She currently holds an orange belt in the sport and after winning in both the Gi and No Gi divisions will be competing at the world tournament in August.

Van Bruinessen began Brazilian jiu-jitsu when she about 7 years old and had 47 wins in major Brazilian Jiu Jitsu competitions. She has trained at the Therien Dojo in Chesterville, as well as at Aurora Life Sports in North Augusta and the Therien Dojo in Orleans under Professor Ely Camejo.

“We are all so proud of Madeline” said coach Dan Gasser at the Therien Martial Arts and Fitness Centre North Dundas. He mentioned how she has grown incredibly as a jiu-jitsu competitor over the years and has become an inspiration in this sport for younger athletes.

“I want to show the other countries how qualified and athletic the Canadians are” said Madeline in a message to The Record. She noted there are between 75 and 100 members in different divisions representing Canada in this tournament which will feature “competitors from around the globe.”

She will be accompanied by her parents on the trip to the UAE and is currently fundraising to pay for the costs associated with representing Canada at the event. This is being accomplished in several ways, with Madeline noting the local community has been so generous to her fundraising effort by donating items for sale such empty alcohol and bottles as well as buying her baking.

Leslie, Madeline’s mother, mentioned how area dojos, and team mates are looking to hold fundraisers. These include suggestions to hold in-house tournaments, bingo nights and making her own brand of Rash Guards and T-shirts.

For more information, people are asked to contact Leslie at Lvanbruinessen@outlook.com or on Facebook by messaging Leslie Christena.