Tri-Cities Gracie Jiu-Jitsu

Five years ago we opened the doors of TCGJJ with a mat, a dream, and no idea who would show up.

Yesterday, about 70 of you showed up under a maple tree at Rocky Point Park — with your kids, your loved ones, your friends, your neighbours — and reminded us exactly why we’ve kept doing this. ☀️💗

There was pizza (a lot of it). Bean bag tossing (mostly on target). Kids playing with one another in an open field, kicking a ball around, and running back for another slice. 🍕🏐🥳

Adults getting to hang out and connect socially with one another without worrying about the time.

Bethany and I got to actually be at our own party for once — which felt strange and wonderful.

Massive thank you to Emilio Finatti Pizzeria Port Moody — our neighbours upstairs from the academy — for feeding our whole crew with 23 tasty pizzas that showed up hot and perfect! If you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out.

Thank you to every family who brought a friend. To our amazing team of instructors for taking care of everyone. To the kids who kept saying “this is the best day.” To everyone who’s ever stepped onto our mats — the last five years happened because of you.

Here’s to the next five. 🙏🥋🌈
— Ray & Bethany

Growth starts with intention.
And intention starts with clear goals.

In Jiu-Jitsu, growth looks different for everyone.
For some, it’s learning a technique and executing it with confidence.
For others, it’s simply showing up consistently—despite busy schedules and daily demands.

That’s why we recognize progress through taped stripes and belt promotions—not as rewards, but as markers of personal development. They reflect commitment, understanding, and steady improvement over time.

There’s no rush. No comparison.
Growth in Jiu-Jitsu—just like in life—is unique to each individual.

If you’re looking for personal growth in a safe, structured, and supportive environment, the mats are waiting for you in the new year. 🥋🌱🌈

DM or comment 'growth' and receive a 10-day free trial pass! 💪🔥

Team work makes the dream work. From our entire team here at TCGJJ, we want to thank everyone for sharing the big green mat with us throughout this incredible year. 🙏🌱🌟

You guys are what inspires us every single day, and it's because of your continuing support, energy and dedication to Jiu-Jitsu that makes the dream work for our amazing community of students and families here at TCGJJ. 🥋🌈💖

We want to wish you all a very special and happy end to your year, and we'll see you all back on the mat in the new year! 🥳

They say, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

Earning a Black Belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu is the embodiment of that truth. This journey is never walked alone — it’s built on the shoulders of training partners, teachers, friends, and family who lift you up on the days you struggle, sharpen you on the days you grow, and stand with you through every step on the mat.

After 17 years of continuous practice — years filled with challenges, breakthroughs, setbacks, and countless moments of perseverance — Coach Ray has been promoted to Black Belt in Gracie Jiu-Jitsu under the guidance and mentorship of Ryron and Rener Gracie at Gracie University.

This achievement is not just a milestone. It’s a reminder that consistency beats talent, community builds lifelong friendships, and the journey is always greater than the destination.

Here’s to the next chapter—and to everyone who helped make this one possible. 🥋💖✨

What an incredible 4-hour seminar! We had the honour and privilege of learning from Guido Jenniges, 4th Degree Black Belt from Gracie University. Who shared not only world-class techniques, but also deep insights into the mindset and principles of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu.

Everyone left inspired, challenged, and reminded of why we love this art. 🙏🥋💖

Huge thank you to Guido for traveling to us all the way from LA, and to all the students who showed up ready to learn, sweat, and push themselves. Events like this remind us how powerful it is to train together and grow as a community. 🌱💪🌈

🥋 Black Belt Seminar with a Gracie Academy Legend! 🥋

We’re beyond excited to welcome Professor Guido Jennings, a 4th Degree Black Belt from the original Gracie Academy, for an exclusive seminar at our school!

This is your chance to train directly with one of the pioneers of authentic Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, learn the powerful principles that shaped the art, and refine your techniques under world-class guidance.

✅ Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025
✅ Time: 9am to 1pm
✅ Location: 2813 Spring Street, Port Moody

🎟️ Limited spots available — reserve yours now!

Whether you’re sharpening your game, deepening your understanding of self-defense, or simply eager to experience the roots of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, this seminar is not to be missed.

👉 DM or email us at [email protected] to secure your spot today!

🎉 BELT PROMOTION CELEBRATION! 🎉

Big congratulations to Paolete on earning her Gracie Combatives belt! 🥳🥋✨

Paolete has made history as our first female student to earn BOTH the Pink Belt for Women Empowered, AND the Gracie Combatives belt!!! 👊🔥

She’s proof that you don’t need to be the youngest, fastest, or strongest to grow in Jiu-Jitsu — you just need the courage to start, the consistency to show up, and the heart to keep learning. 💪❤️

Here at Tri-Cities Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, we believe Jiu-Jitsu is for everyone — all ages, all backgrounds, all fitness levels. And moments like this remind us why we love what we do: seeing our students build confidence, community, and skills that last a lifetime. 🙌

Drop a 🎉 in the comments to celebrate Paolete, and if you’ve been thinking about starting your own journey, maybe this is your sign. 😉