Alchemy Martial Arts Duo Claim International Jiu-Jitsu Success
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Alchemy Martial Arts is celebrating a remarkable period of achievement, with two of its athletes securing international medals in recent competitions. Fifteen-year-old Freddie Finn and 45-year-old Ross Barnett have both demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication, bringing honor to the club and inspiring martial artists of all ages.
A rising star in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Freddie Finn has rapidly ascended the ranks since beginning his training in April 2024. He secured a gold medal at the London Fall Kids International Open IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship, followed by a silver medal at the IBJJF Europe event in Dublin. This impressive double underscores his rapid development and potential.
“Forever grateful for my family at @alchemy_martial_arts who have helped me achieve this in such little time of training,” Finn posted on social media, expressing his gratitude and ambition. “[I will be] coming back 10 times better and stronger in 2026.”
Finn’s success is particularly noteworthy given his relatively short time on the mats. He currently boasts an unbeaten record of 21 victories on Smoothcomp, a software platform used to facilitate tournament conditions. His mother, Aimee, highlighted the significance of his achievements. “This is such a massive achievement and not many people manage it as quickly as he has,” she said. “Freddie is training even harder to get to [the] worlds and get gold. He is mentally and physically the best he has ever been and that is because of the club, it is like a family.”
The supportive environment at Alchemy Martial Arts, led by coach Liam Harris, has been instrumental in Finn’s progress. According to those close to the team, Harris has provided individualized coaching and preparation for each competition. “Freddie definitely wouldn’t be where he is today without him,” a source stated.
Barnett’s Strategic Success on the World Stage
Margate’s Ross Barnett also recently achieved international recognition, winning a silver medal at the AJP World Jiu-Jitsu Championship in Abu Dhabi. Barnett, who began his Jiu-Jitsu journey in 2021 as a means of maintaining fitness, has quickly established himself as a formidable competitor. He previously won the IBJJF London Open and the AJP Milan Open.
Barnett described Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu as “like a game of chess, it can be very strategic and if you put your arm or leg in the wrong place you will soon know about it!” He encourages others to try the discipline, emphasizing its benefits for both physical fitness and confidence.
He recounted a challenging competition in Abu Dhabi, stating, “I ended up beating last year’s silver and bronze medallists but lost in the final so came away with silver.”
A Club Built on Dedication and Inclusivity
The success of Finn and Barnett reflects the dedication and expertise of the entire Alchemy Martial Arts team, led by Alan Mark, affectionately known as ‘Gunz’ within the club. Mark himself recently won the English Open, demonstrating the high standard of instruction and competition within the organization.
“Ross is a dad, has multiple jobs and still finds time to train,” Mark said. “He went to Abu Dhabi on his own and had a division of 12 or 13 people, all tough guys, and got second place.” He also praised Finn’s rapid progress, noting, “Freddie has progressed amazingly quickly. He has come to the club and dedicated himself for the last 18 months and has smashed it.”
Alchemy Martial Arts prides itself on its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming individuals of all ages and skill levels. A representative for the club emphasized that while competition is encouraged, it is not mandatory. “We have team members competing and winning medals most weekends of the year,” they said. “That’s not to say competition is expected from anyone, if people just want to train for fun you are also in the right place.”
Alchemy Martial Arts offers a free introductory session for those interested in learning more. Contact Alan Mark on 07719 474102 or visit alchemymartialarts.co.uk for details.
