By: Jason M.A. Walter for BJJ Legends Magazine | The Beginning - Pan Ams 2010

I grew up believing that following your heart was important though societal norms seemed to indicate otherwise.  Over the years, I have struggled with deep conflicts throughout my life as I was trying to fit in with what the world told me was “right.”  At 26, I found myself young, unhealthy, and feeling dead inside.  It was not until I realized that the shackles that were holding me back were invisible and of my own creation.

The 2010 Pan Ams held highs and lows for a lot of competitors - 2800 to be exact.  With an effort this big we selected the best photos from our Photographer - Kris Shaw. Kris is the 3rd US woman to attain her black-belt, so she really knows what to look for in a photo.  Enjoy these photos as they tell the story of this great tournament.

More interviews from the 2010 Pan Am BJJ Tournament.

Marcelo chats about his new academy in NY, designs on fighting in the worlds, his MMA career and anticipation about fighting in the Jiu Jitsu Worlds in June.

And check out MGinAction.com for videos of Marcelo 's classes and BJJ techniques.

Kayron Gracie and Abmar Barbosa go at it here in the 2010 Pan Am Jiu Jitsu Finals for the Middle Weight division.  Securing their place among Black Belt Competitors this year and puting a stake int he ground for the 2010 BJJ World Championships in June in LA,CA.

Mike Fowler and BJJ Legends get a look into the argument and drama behind Fowler's loss at the 2010 Pan Ams.. Bad Ref-ing? Did Mike Tap? Do Competitors deserve a higher quality of referee if they pay, some, a thousand or more dollars in total expense to come to a tournament only to be knocked out by a bad call...

See what Mike has to say.

Llyoyd Irvin teammate, JT Torres is featured in the NEXT BJJ Legends Magazine & DVD, the World Famous Jiu-Jitsu Authority with interviews and 25 +techniques from Royce Gracie, BJ Penn, Leo Vieira, Braulio Estima, Xande Ribeiro and more. Order Today - Don't Miss an Issue. Lloyd and JT are featured in the Royler Gracie issue 2010, issue 1

Some great pictures from the 2010 Pan AM Jiu Jtisu Championships from Cooperphoto.  Got Photos, send us a link - we're posting a lot more.

Special thanks to Cooperphoto.com for providing photos.