Island Sotheby's agent wins silver medal in North America's largest Jiu Jitsu tournament

Megan Bouhey, R(S) isn’t just your average real estate professional - the Island Sotheby’s International Realty agent is now a Brazilian jiu jitsu champion.

Last month, Bouhey participated in the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation’s Pan-American Championship, often referred to as the "Pan Ams.” Held this year in Irvine, California, the championship is the largest Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu tournament held in North America.

“This was actually my first competition,” said Bouhey. “I kind of just went for it and decided to enter the toughest tournament for my first.”

Bouhey didn’t just participate - she ended up placing second, earning a silver medal. That’s a remarkable accomplishment, considering that Bouhey only started jiu jitsu in May 2018.

“I have been with my husband for 16 years and he has been doing it since before we met,” she explained. “I resisted starting Brazilian jiu jitsu for a long time but was definitely exposed to it because of my husband’s passion for the sport and lifestyle.”

Her husband, Joel Bouhey is a second degree Black Belt under professor Luis Heredia, who played a key role in bringing Brazilian jiu jitsu to America. Megan Bouhey is coached by both her husband and Heredia.

“My first class left me thinking about it the rest of the day, then eventually all week - and it never stopped,” said Bouhey. “It’s an endless pool of information, and the only sport that I have participated in that I have had to use my brain so much! I definitely have the jiu jitsu bug now and practice usually six days a week.”

Besides having an overall positive impact on her life, Bouhey said learning Brazilian jiu jitsu has also brought her more confidence by knowing she can defend herself. Her daughters, ages 3 and 7, are now also participating in the sport.

“I am so happy to share this with them as a life skill and positive lifestyle,” said Bouhey.