Christopher Cruz ’29 Wins Four Gold Medals at Philippines Jiu-Jitsu National Team Trials

Christopher Cruz ’29 won four gold medals at the Philippines Jiu-Jitsu National Team Trials in Metro Manila earlier this month, competing in both the U-16 and U-18 age groups. Cruz went undefeated in his matches, winning both the gi and no-gi brackets in both age groups.

With his performance in the trials, Cruz qualified for the Philippines Youth National Team and will compete for the country in international tournaments later this year. 

Cruz took up jiu-jitsu seven years ago, when he began taking classes at the gym where he’d previously taken mixed martial arts classes. He’s been competing in the sport for five years, training five days a week while balancing academic and other responsibilities.

“I was happy to see the rewards of my hard work balancing both sports and academics,” said Cruz. “I’m also excited that I’ll get to represent the Philippines in competitions, which has been a goal of mine.”

While in the Philippines, Cruz also volunteered with two organizations in Lipa City: SOS Children’s Village, which provides basic needs to children who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care, and Tahanan ng Mahal na Ina ng Guadalupe, an organization that provides care to abandoned seniors.

“This tournament gave me an opportunity to see my family in the Philippines and to help others in need, while giving me a new perspective on life outside the United States,” said Cruz.