BROOKLYN, N.Y. — Kingston-based Midtown Jiu Jitsu athletes had another successful showing at the Grappling Industries Brooklyn competition, earning multiple gold and silver medals across adult and teen divisions at the Major R. Owens Health and Wellness Community Center on Saturday, Aug. 8.
Emily Kerr-Finell took two gold medals in her first tournament as a blue belt, finishing with a 4-0 mark with four victories via points.
Kerr-Finell continues to develop an accurate and fluid pinning style, transitioning seamlessly between top, back and wrestling positions.
Darius Edwards earned gold in the gi division, submitting each of his opponents with strangles and armbars.
In the final, Edwards battled through a knee injury midway through the match and secured the victory. Following the competition, he was promoted to blue belt.
Emily Kerr-Finell of Midtown Jiu Jitsu is photographed on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, competing at the Grappling Industries Brooklyn competition at Brooklyn, New York.
Photo provided
Dakoda Wagner was also competing in his first tournament at blue belt and earned double silver. Wagner recorded two points’ victories and one submission, with both of his losses coming against a seasoned blue belt competitor.
It was a strong first showing at the new belt level for Wagner with plenty to build on. Wagner also received his blue belt following the tournament.
Teenager August Quinn, who cross trains with Midtown from Unity Jiu Jitsu, earned a gold medal in the no gi division.
Quinn delivered a measured performance, successfully implementing wrestling techniques worked on in training the previous week and showing patience through positions and transitions on his way to two submission victories.
Reni Berns, Midtown’s lone youth competitor at the event, once again competed in an all-boy division, with the majority of her opponents heavier and more experienced.
Berns finished with a 3-5 record, demonstrating resilience, strong in-match listening and the ability to make adjustments throughout her matches. Against an opponent her own size, Berns escaped a deep closed guard guillotine and went on to secure a win by points.
“We’re really proud of how the whole team performed,” Midtown Jiu Jitsu coach Malachy Silva said. “What stood out most was how well everyone applied what we’ve been working on in the gym. Across our kids, teens and adults, they stayed composed, made adjustments and showed a lot of growth. The medals are great, but seeing their development in competition is what matters most.”
Midtown Jiu Jitsu is based at 635 Broadway in Kingston, and offers Brazilian Jiu Jitsu training for children, teens and adults.