This event is now full; unfortunately we no longer have room if you haven't already registered for the training. Spectator spots are still available, and guests not interested in watching the seminar may register for the barbecues only. 

Grappler's Retreat: Spring Training Camp

May 19-20, 2012

Gokor to lead the training for our Spring 2012 Grappling Camp!

• Training will be no-gi Submission Grappling; open to individuals from any team!
  
• Registration requires minimum 1 year prior BJJ/Grappling experience to participate in training (due to advanced level instruction and limited space)
• Spectator spots, camping, and post-training BBQs open to friends & family (advanced registration is required even for those not training)
• Grappler’s Retreat has reserved the only group campsite at Russian Gulch State Park. This is an incredible location! (hot showers & clean bathrooms available)

The Mendocino coast's Russian Gulch: this is the site of our reserved group campground, where we'll gather for our post-training barbecues! All are encouraged to camp!

Training Camp Instructor

Gokor Chivichyan is an expert trainer and a legend in the sports of Sambo, Judo, Submission Grappling, and Mixed Martial Arts. In addition to developing his own team, Gokor cross-trains some of the world’s best BJJ fighters in his unorthodox style of submission grappling.  In particular, Gokor is renowned for his mastery of teaching his unique approach to setting up leg-lock submissions, in addition to developing Sambo and catch-wrestling based grappling systems that can greatly complement and enhance the style of an advanced BJJ practitioner.

Brief Bio: Gokor began his training as a young child in Soviet-Armenia, winning numerous national and international junior titles in Sambo, Judo, and wrestling. At the age of 17, Gokor relocated to Los Angeles, where he further developed his training in no-gi grappling under the mentorship of Gene LeBell, a tremendous catch wrestler and America' first Judo champion. Over a 15 year competition career, Gokor participated in hundreds of Sambo, Judo, and Grappling tournaments (in addition to dozens of no-holds-barred fights)—he has has remained undefeated in competition, even after making a brief return in 2008, where he easily took Gold at the 2008 US Judo Winter Nationals.

Gokor's Hayastan Grappling System combines elements of Sambo, Judo, Jiu Jitsu, and Catch Wrestling. While Hayastan Grappling includes all forms of submissions, it is particularly known for the depth of its systematic incorporation of leg locks & neck locks into its dynamic offensive curriculum, in addition to throws and holds uniquely adapted for fighting without the gi.

At age 49, Gokor continues to train students at his Hayastan Grappling Academy, which has produced a new generation of athletes who have excelled in the arena of the UFC, Strikeforce, WEC, King of the Cage, World Grappling Games, NAGA Grappling Championships, Grappler’s Quest, and Olympic Judo Championships. Gokor’s notable students include: Karo Parisyan, Manny Gamburyan, Ronda Rousey, Gegard Mousasi, and many others.

The Falls of Russian Gulch Creek Canyon, a short hike from our camp.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q. Does Grappler's Retreat Provide a place for me to sleep?

A. Grappler's Retreat has reserved and paid for the only Group Campground at Russian Gulch State Park. Registered participants are encouraged to camp here. However, you must bring your own tent and sleeping bag.

Q. I don't like camping. Can I get a room somewhere?

A. We encourage all participants and their registered guests to camp at our coastal campsite; however, this is optional. You are welcome to get a room at a nearby inn. This will be at your own expense though. Please contact us if you'd like a recommendation on where to get a room.

Q. Are all meals provided?

A. Grappler's Retreat is taking care of preparing two massive barbecues for all participants and their registered/paid guests. You will be responsible for your breakfast and snacks (the village of Mendocino, just south of our camp, has some incredible places to grab breakfast!)

Q. How much experience do I need to participate in the training?

A. Participants should have a minimum of one year BJJ or Grappling experience. This is so that Gokor can more smootly flow through advanced-level instruction. Additionally, this will ensure that participants get more out of training with one another.

We have a very limited number of spectator seats available for beginners with less than 1-year experience if you would like watch the training from off the mat.

Q. I am an advanced BJJ practitioner. Will I benefit from attending this event?

A. Absolutely! Gokor's instruction will be especially beneficial to those who already have a solid base in grappling. Also, bear in mind that we anticipate at least ¼ of those on the mat will have over 8 years BJJ/Grappling experience... so you should have some fine training partners for the event!

Q. Can my friend/family come?

A. Only 24 registered participants will be allowed on the mats for the training with Gokor. Another 5 seats will be available for spectators. Due to limtied space, additional people will not be allowed in the dojo during the training sessions.

However, family and friends are encouraged to attend the post-training BBQs. While you are training, your guests are welcome to relax at the group campground; rest assured, they will be enjoying one of the most scenic places on the Pacific coast while you are locked in the dojo with Gokor!

All guests must register & pay separately for the BBQs and/or camping in advance so we have an accurate headcount .

Q. What do I need to bring?

If you are camping at our group campsite, you'll need to bring your own tent and sleeping bag. Consider bringing a sleeping mat as well. Layered clothing and a windbreaker jacket are also highly advised, as nights are typically quite chilly on the Mendocino coast.

Aside from that, be sure to bring 2 clean sets of workout clothes, a towel, and your personal toiletries.

Q. Will I be able to buy food/snacks?

Of course. The village of Mendocino is just south of our camp and has a well-stocked grocery store in addition to some great places to grab your breakfast!

Q. Can I shower after training?

Russian Gulch State Park (the site of our group campground) has hot showers and clean bathrooms. Be sure to bring quarters to operate the showers.

 Q. Where will we meet for training?

A. Training takes place at the Grappler's Retreat Dojo. From our Russian Gulch camp, it is a 10 minute drive north along Highway 1. The address of the Grappler's Retreat Dojo is 118 S. Main Street, Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Retreat Overview:

The Retreat includes over 4-hours of training with Gokor, in addition to two 1-hour sparring sessions! We will be hosting two massive BBQs after the training sessions; these turn into late-night bonfires to keep everyone warm.

Grappler's Retreat has reserved the only group campsite at Russian Gulch State Park. This is in an amazing setting, and there is much to be seen for participants who choose to wander off and explore. From camp, one incredible trail leads to a 36-foot high waterfall located in the heaviliy forested Russian Gulch Creek Canyon. Another amazing hike takes you to the "Devil's Punch Bowl", a massive sea cave formed by the long-ago collapse of a coastal headland.

For those too tired from the training sessions, the forested seaside campground is an incredible place to simply relax. For those with too much energy, we recommend heading to the beach with a training partner!

Alex Aftandilians & Nic Gregoriades training at Russian Gulch Beach, summer 2007.

Saturday:

• 2:00pm - 4:00pm: Gokor to instruct at the Grappler's Retreat dojo in Fort Bragg
• 4:00pm - 5:00pm: open mat sparring session (optional)
• 5:30pm: BBQ on the coast, followed by free time to hike, relax, or train on the beach!

Sunday:

• 12:00pm - 2:00pm: Gokor to instruct at the Grappler's Retreat dojo in Fort Bragg
• 2:00pm - 3:00pm: sparring session (optional)
• 4:00pm: BBQ on the coast, followed by free time to hike, relax, or train on the beach!

  Sunset at Russian Gulch Beach.

The Grappler's Retreat Dojo in Fort Bragg, 10 minutes north of our Russian Gulch camp.

Retreat Philosophy

Our training camps are open to individuals of all teams & affiliations. Our past training camps have been attended by grapplers from Gracie Barra, Gracie Jiu Jitsu, 10th Planet Jiu Jitsu, Brazilian Top Team, Rickson Gracie Association, Carlson Gracie Association, and Team Hayastan.

Our goal is to provide an incredible training experience, where grapplers from different teams & affiliations can learn and spar together in a positive, non-competative training environment.

Our retreats, however, are about more than just training... they are also about fostering exchange and brotherhood in the grappling community. After training sessions, instructors & participants come together and have a chance to hang out and relax while taking in the awesome scenery of the Mendocino coast!

Register Now!