06 Sep student Arara traveled to Rio

Representing ABADÁ-Capoeira Marin: Our own student Arara traveled to Rio and participated in the full experience!

“Hello, Abadá family, my name is Debora.

I am the daughter of Brazilian parents, My journey with Capoeira began in Marin County, California, In October 2024, I joined Abadá Studio of Marin with Professor Ciranda. From the get go I’ve immersed myself deeply in Capoeira, taking private lessons with Professor Ferrugem, attending a summer floreio class, and embracing every opportunity to grow and June of this year, I was baptized as Arraiá with my godmother Vesper, at our batizado.

This past August, I traveled to Rio de Janeiro to participate in the Jogos Mundiais de Capoeira. What an incredible experience, I was honored to meet so many mestres and mestrandos. I truly enjoyed connecting with capoeiristas of all levels, and also being taught by so many wonderful professores.

At the Jogos, I learned that Capoeira is not about rushing to get a cord, but about the journey; building a strong foundation, step by step. This was one of the key points of Mestranda Yara’s class, the importance of good ergonomics, even in something as fundamental as the ginga. Good form not only builds skill but also prevents injury.

Watching the Jogos was awe-inspiring, the athletes moved like gladiators in the air, yet always with respect and camaraderie. Being so new to capoeira I still have to prepare myself for the sense of time stands still during capoeira. On the elimination games and during the jogos, capoeiristas were fighting well into the early morning. Miraculously everyone still had the energy and axé to keep going. Their passion and endurance were truly commendable.

Capoeira has become more than just a practice for me, it is a community, a discipline, and a source of joy that continues to enrich my life. But more than that, Capoeira does not only exist inside the studio or the roda—it is present in all parts of our lives. We should always carry the axé with us. Capoeira is a rhythm, a movement, and a spirit that I look forward to have a part of my life while I am physically and mentally able.”

Débora – Arraia