Description
Welcome!
This is a single elimination, submission only tournament with absolute divisions available.
What: Relson Gracie In-House Tournament
Who: Open to all official Relson Gracie Federated Academies
When: Saturday, May 30, 2026
Where: Relson Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy (aka Gracie Cleveland)
38000 Euclid Ave., Willoughby, Ohio 44094
Why: To give competitors a supportive, low-pressure environment to test their skills, gain confidence, and experience competition.
Tournament Format
This is a submission-focused event emphasizing control, technique, and positional dominance.
- No advantages
- No points tracking
- Matches may be decided by referee decision when no submission occurs
All divisions follow a double elimination format. Competitors will remain in the bracket until two losses. Athletes who lose once will move into the repechage bracket for a chance to compete for third place.
Absolute divisions are open weigh within your belt rank.
Awards
Medals will be awarded for:
- 1st place
- 2nd place
- 3rd place
All medals must be picked up at the medal podium on competition day.
Dates and Deadlines
Please pay close attention to all deadlines. No changes, cancellations, or corrections will be processed after the athlete correction deadline.
- Registration Deadline: Friday, May 22, 2026
- Registration Check Day: Saturday, May 23, 2026
- Athlete Correction Deadline: Sunday, May 24, 2026
- Schedule and Bracket Release: Monday May 25, 2026
Divisions and Eligibility
Gi and No-Gi Divisions. No co-ed matches.
Divisions are separated by:
- Gender
- Weight
- Belt
- Age
There are no mixed gender divisions. Male and female divisions are separate.
Absolute Divisions
- No registrations will be accepted on event day
Athletes may forfeit the absolute division later if they choose.
Uniform Requirements
Gi Divisions
- No mixed colored Gis
- Male competitors may not wear rash guards or groin protection
- Female competitors must wear a rash guard, gym clothes, or sports bra under gi.
No-Gi Divisions
- Rash guards are mandatory
- Grappling shorts required
Uniforms may be inspected prior to competition.
Weigh Ins
- Weigh ins are conducted in pounds
- Athletes may weigh in up to 10 minutes before their first match
- One pound allowance is permitted
Athletes who do not make weight will be disqualified and issued a credit for a future event.
Scheduling
The final schedule will be posted approximately 48 hours before the event.
Competitors should be in the warm up area 45 to 60 minutes before their scheduled division time. Matches may begin earlier than posted.
Refund and Credit Policy
Refund deadline is Friday, May 22, 2026.*
No changes, cancellations, or refunds will be issued after the athlete correction deadline or on event day.
*See Code of Conduct for refund exceptions.
Code of Conduct
We enforce a zero tolerance policy for unsportsmanlike behavior from competitors, coaches, and spectators. A single incident will result in immediate disqualification and removal from the event, with no warnings, no second chances, and no refunds.
Entrance Policy
This event is family friendly and intended to maintain a safe and respectful environment for all participants.
- No pets are permitted inside the venue. Service animals are permitted in accordance with applicable laws.
- Smoking or vaping of any kind is not permitted inside the academy.
- Food allowed in lobby only. No food in mat rooms or bathrooms.
- The registration fee applies to competitors only. Coaches and family members may enter the event at no cost.
- Children must remain within the sight and supervision of a parent or guardian at all times.
Location
We're excited to welcome competitors and supporters from across the country to our jiu-jitsu tournament in beautiful Willoughby, Ohio!
LOCATION:
RELSON GRACIE JIU-JITSU ACADEMY
38000 Euclid Ave.
Willoughby, OH 44094
USA
On-Site Parking and Parking at Immaculate Conception Church next door. (see street view)
Conveniently situated in Lake County near the Lake Erie coast in the eastern suburbs of Cleveland.
Getting Here
By Car
Driving to our academy is straightforward and convenient, with excellent highway access.
When using a nav system, search for "38000 Euclid Ave, Willoughby, OH 44094."
By Air
The nearest major airport is Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), about 30–32 miles west of the academy (roughly 35–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic). CLE offers flights from most major U.S. cities and international connections. For smaller/private flights, Lake County Executive Airport (LNN) is just a few miles north of Willoughby and serves general aviation.Transportation from CLE to the academy
- Rental Car: Recommended for flexibility. Major rental companies are available at the airport. Take I-71 N to I-90 E toward Erie, PA, then exit toward Willoughby (follow signs for Euclid Ave/OH-20).
- Rideshare/Taxi: Uber, Lyft, or traditional taxis are readily available at CLE. Expect a fare of approximately $50–$80 one-way to Willoughby (prices vary by time and demand).
- Public Transit: Limited options exist (RTA subway/bus combinations via downtown Cleveland), but they take 2–3 hours and involve transfers. Not ideal with gear. Driving or rideshare is strongly recommended.
Where to Stay
Willoughby and the surrounding Mentor area offering a range of affordable hotels within 5–15 minutes of the academy. Many are along major routes like Euclid Ave (OH-20) or I-90 for easy access. Here are some popular and well-reviewed options (check current rates and availability directly, as they can book up during events):
- Courtyard by Marriott Cleveland Willoughby: Hotel with indoor pool, fitness center, on-site dining, and good reviews. Very close to the academy.
- Red Roof Inn Cleveland - Mentor/Willoughby: Budget-friendly, pet-friendly option with free parking and Wi-Fi. Just a short drive away.
- Willoughby House Inn: Charming local inn right in the area, great for a more unique stay.
Some very budget-friendly options
- Plaza Motel in Wickliffe
- J & L Motel, Wickliffe
- Skylight Inn, Willoughby
- Motel 6, Mentor
- Willo Lodge, Willoughby
Additional hotels are available in nearby Mentor, Painesville, or Wickliffe. We recommend booking early. Search for hotels or an AirbnB near "Willoughby, OH 44094" or "Euclid Ave, Willoughby" for the closest matches.
Local Tips
- Driving and Parking: The academy is easily accessible via Euclid Avenue (OH-20). Free parking is available on-site and at Immaculate Conception Church next door.
- Nearby Amenities: Willoughby offers charming downtown dining, coffee shops, restaurants, and Lake Erie proximity for breaks between matches. Cleveland's attractions (museums, pro sports, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame) are about 20–30 minutes west if you have extra time.
- Weather: Check forecasts for Northeast Ohio. Bring layers, as conditions can change quickly near the lake.
