World-renowned Jiu-Jitsu instructor stops by Gracie Allegiance

ZANESVILE – Clark Gracie is the founder of Gracie Allegiance across the United States. He is a third degree black belt and one of his Grandfathers learned the original Japanese Jiu-Jitsu from a champion in Brazil in the early 1900’s. He was happy to be in Zanesville.

“It’s great to be here. I traveled from California and feel so welcome and the people are so eager to learn. It’s a great feeling as an instructor when you feel the excitement and enthusiasm from the public and it makes it very easy to teach that way as well,” Gracie said.

Gracie was at the dojo in the mall once in 2020 as well. Owner Jason Cable is impressed by the humility of someone like Gracie who has accomplished so much in the martial art.

“He spends a lot of time with everybody. Some people come in and do what they’ve got to do and leave; he hangs out (and) talks to everybody and it’s a big deal because it’s like, wow, he’s at another level but he’s spending time with the new guys and that means a to everybody,” Cable said.

WHIZ was present during an adult session of the class but Gracie Allegiance does offer courses for kids as well. Cable is always looking for new signups regardless of experience level.