Swindon teen wins Brazilian jiu-jitsu silver medal

Roman said his silver medal is just the beginning for his Brazilian jiu-jitsu career

A 15-year-old Brazilian jiu-jitsu athlete has picked up a silver medal at a recent world championship.

Roman, from Swindon, has trained in the sport since the age of eight, after being introduced to it by his father.

"Obviously I didn't come away with the gold unfortunately, which happens sometimes," he told BBC Radio Wiltshire.

Brazillian jiu-jitsu is a popular martial art which combines wrestling with ground-based grappling.

The teenager already has a large medal collection, including gold at the Welsh Open and the Reading Open.

He said the biggest reward is the discipline and friendship the sport has given him.

"It really sharpens your mind because you always have to be thinking.

"It gives you a sense of hard work and what you're capable of, and you make a lot of friends, I'd recommend it to anyone."

The teenager trains every day at Gracie Swindon Jiu-Jitsu.

Head coach Lucas Lewis said: "Roman is a very good student, we are all very happy and proud to have him as part of our club."

The teenager's success has already started inspiring younger members of the club.

"We start for three years olds, so it's nice for the little ones to see they can achieve things if they put in the hard work," Mr Lewis said.

Roman has won several medals from previous competitions

The atmosphere at the club and support from Roman's coaches and teammates have played a big role in keeping him motivated.

"The people are a big part of why I am so dedicated to it.

"I train with some really good people."

Roman already has his eyes set on the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) World Championships.

"That would be the gold standard. You're super good if you win that.

"I think winning that would ultimately satisfy me," he said.