By: King Eddie

Photos By: Laurie K.

Matthew Ramie competed in his first Jiu-Jitsu competition over the weekend.  The Polynesia International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Tournament. Not only was it his first competition, but also a first for his son, Orion, and daughter, Kiana. For Matthew, the benefit of competing in the event as a family made it all the more memorable and positive. Being there for his kids as they competed, won, and lost, reminded him of the lessons that are the hardest to learn. . . the ones that only come from defeat.The lessons that initiate growth and wisdom.

After cheering for his children as they competed, celebrating their victories, and lifting them up after losses, he took on his very own division and came out on top. His first match was one that "went perfectly" said Ramie. But his second fight was more of an uphill battle. He only secured the points to claim victory in the last seconds. He faced a more experienced opponent that, he felt, had more skills. But much like he told his kids, hanging in there, putting all the hard work of training to use, and fighting through any and all adversity, led him to his inevitable win.

His motivating force through the entire competition was his supportive family. His mother - Carol, Father - Ron, Son - Isaiah, and Sister - Jessica, were all there in to cheer on Matthew, as well as Orion and Kiana. He says that the strength drawn from hearing their voices in the background, lifting him up, are unmatched and are key in his success.

Read more about Matthew Ramie and his family in an upcoming issue of MMA Hawaii Magazine.

(Pictured- Alaka'i, Bobbi-Jean, Koldene and Lisa Walsh and Ron, Isaiah, Carol, Orion, and Jessica Ramie)