Interview by Shannon Logan

I arrived very late to my academy a week ago to find the usual crew of guys sitting and talking in hushed voices about the pretty, young blue belt sitting against the far wall. I expected the usual locker room banter, but instead I heard things like, "She really flows nicely from one move to the next." " She just used my favorite sweep against me!" and "Yeah, I just got my butt kicked by a 16 year old girl!"

I headed straight over to the unassuming new student, introduced myself and made sure I got a chance to train with her. I was amazed by the strength, skill and speed all wrapped up inside the lithe, petite body of a typical 16 year old girl sporting a rich Brazilian tan and one serious game face.

Kira, how old are you and how long have you been training?
	I am 16 years old. Total, I have been training for 5 years.
Who is your instructor and where do you train?
	I train with Alexander Soca in Barra De Tijuca Condominio Santa Monica.
What are some of your accomplishments and which do you consider the biggest accomplishment in Jiu-Jitsu so far?
	I am a four time Brasileiro champ, four time State champ in Rio, 1st place in Pan Ams, 2001 and I took 3rd in the Worlds, 2001 as well. My biggest accomplishment was when I won the Pan Ams, 2001. I had four fights.
Who are your toughest opponents so far?
	All the Japanese women I have ever fought.
Who do you admire the most in Jiu-Jitsu?
	My Uncle Renzo, Ryan, Ralph, Rickson and Rodrigo because they are the most technical and they support the family name.
What are the strongest points of your game?
	My guard, especially sweeps.
What are your future plans for competitions?
	I want to do the Pan Ams, Worlds and the Brasileiro this year.
What do you think of NYC?
	It's a nice place to visit, but not to live! I like warm weather, the beach and surfing.
How do you train for your competitions?
	Before the competition, I work with my teacher on specific strategy in training and then I use that strategy in every fight.
What are your future goals?
	To train hard and get my black belt!

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