Bermuda’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu community is celebrating another strong overseas showing after a group of island competitors brought home medals from a tournament in New Jersey. The results add to a growing list of international podium finishes for local grapplers, who have increasingly tested themselves against larger fields in the United States.

Coaches and supporters said the performances reflected steady progress within Bermuda’s close-knit martial arts scene, where athletes often balance training with work, school and limited access to high-level sparring partners. Competing abroad remains an important part of development, giving fighters exposure to different styles, rule sets and pressure environments that are difficult to replicate at home.

The New Jersey event drew entrants from academies across the region, providing Bermuda’s representatives with valuable match experience in both youth and adult divisions. While the island’s jiu-jitsu programme remains small compared with major US hubs, organisers say participation has risen in recent years, particularly among younger athletes introduced through school clubs and community gyms.

Local instructors hope the latest medals will encourage more residents to try the sport and help build momentum toward future competitions. With continued fundraising, travel support and structured training, Bermuda’s grapplers are aiming to turn overseas appearances into consistent podium contention while strengthening the pathway for the next generation of island martial artists.