RCJ Machado Rep. Has passed away

[BJJ-Boulder]

My name is Matt Cram,
I live in boulder CO and train at Brazilian Jiu-jitsu boulder with Amal Easton. This past weekend, I drove to Sterling CO to visit a friend. While I was there, I decided to check out Mark Smith's IMB Academy and train in some jiu-jitsu.

When I showed up at the school, I was told that Mark Smith had died a couple days before. Everyone seemed very down. I was then approched by one of the assistants and it was requested of me that I teach their jiu-jitsu class that evening. I accepted and felt very honored to do this.

Mark Smith was a Purple belt representative under Carlos Machado. He was also a certified JKD instructor. In fact, upon visiting his school, the man had so many plaques of certification and achievement that it looked like wall paper.

It was relayed to me after class, that Mark had in fact committed suicide. I was then asked if I would pass on the news. I had only met Mark one time. He was a hect of good grappler. Such a tragedy to lose such a great martial artist. Mark was cremated in his jiu-jitsu gi.
My condolences to his family and all his students.

Matt,

[SweepEm]

this is very sad news.

Condolences to his family.

[John Bennett]

I'm sorry to hear that. Do you know of an address where people could send condolence cards?


Mark was cremated in his jiu-jitsu gi.

Cool. I'd never thought of that.

[YeLLa-TiGeR]

Cremated in his gi? Thats a really novel idea. Too bad he commited suicide.

TTT for a teacher.

[dan downard]

That is awful news.I can only hope he has peace with himself now.
Guys. We all have problems and depressing times.
Hopfully we seek others help when we get overwhelmed.
This sad tragady is a reminder to us all.
May his family grow to accept what he has done.
And those that knew him remember him well.