NEWARK, N.J. – In an arena of 2,500 competitors, Washburn resident James “Chico” Hernandez grappled to two world titles at the North American Grappling Association’s (NAGA) World Championship at Essex County College during the April 5-6 event.
Hernandez captured a bronze medal in the No-Gi competition after defeating Phil Kavowski, of New York City, by choke submission. Hernandez came close to taking the gold in the Gi competition. However, in the final match, Neil Keegstra, of New Jersey, gained the World Title belt after a judge and referee’s decision broke the 2-2 tie. Hernandez had defeated Keegstra in the 2006 North American Championships.
“Neil told me that he was lucky to win the World Championship Title belt,” said Hernandez, “but I told Neil that he made his own luck, and wanted the belt a little bit more. I tried to nurse a 2-0 lead with 30 seconds remaining in the fight, and he tied it up. It was very close, but I’m happy with a silver and bronze.”
Hernandez, a member of Team Irish and the American Sambo Association, now boasts 11 world titles.
Staff photo/Meridith Paterson
CHICO HERNANDEZ brought home a bronze and silver medal from the 2008 NAGA World Championships.
