BERKELEY, CA, OCTOBER, 9, 2016 – Every Fall, Straight Blast Gym athletes from around the world gather for camp to train in Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, MMA, and Yoga. In the company of teammates and coaches, new belts are typically awarded in SBG traditional ironman grappling event. After a grueling 3-hour ironman event at SBG Norcal in Berkeley, CA with nearly 100 people, SBG North’s head coach Hamilton Ash received his Black Belt in Jiu Jitsu. Irish teammate and UFC fighter Aisling Daly also received her black belt, as the first Irish female to achieve the rank.
Hamilton Ash reflected, “SBG literally made a man of me. Matt Thornton, my big brother, has given me every belt I’ve ever earned in BJJ, and he has been one of my biggest and most important role models since the age of 17. Travis Davison was my second coach and has been my mentor for these last several years. He has coached me into the successful athlete and coach that I am today. There isn’t much this man hasn’t already done for me and my family. He has helped shape me into a man that I am proud to be. My wife, Rebekka, has supported me for years and always pushed me to follow my dreams even when I felt like giving up. She has been my rock and has helped me become a more kind man and a loving father. To everyone else who has been in my life through this journey I love you all and thank you. I couldn’t ask for more supportive friends. I’m so honored to have been awarded my black belt at SBG NorCal”.
Travis Davison, head coach and owner of Straight Blast Gym in Montana, said, “Hamilton joined SBG as a 17 year old kid who looking for structure and direction. He is now a 26 year old man, father of 2 children, husband, coach and World class competitor. He came to Montana nearly 3 years ago and in that time has endeared himself to his students, coaches and teammates. Congratulations Hamilton we are all very proud of your accomplishment!”
L-R: SBG black belts Allen “Gus” Nolte, Hamilton Ash, Travis Davison and Leah Taylor.
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