Our Roots

Our story began in the mid 1990s, when founder Chris Lund stepped onto the mats under the tutelage of Relson Gracie and the legendary Gracie family at the Gracie Jiu-Jitsu Academy of Hawaii. Training alongside icons like Royce Gracie—the first UFC champion—and learning directly from Grandmaster Helio Gracie laid a foundation built on leverage, technique, and a deep appreciation for the roots of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

Guided by an American Original

As the art evolved, so did Chris. He continued his training with Chris Haueter, a member of the “Dirty Dozen”—the first group of non-Brazilian Black Belts in BJJ. Known for his conceptual approach and sharp wit, Professor Haueter emphasized strategy, creativity, and what he called a “thinking man’s” approach to Jiu-Jitsu. Under his guidance, Chris developed a deeper understanding of the core conceptual aspects of the art that would shape the very essence of our academy’s teaching approach.

Black Belt Lineage

Chris earned his Black Belt in 2009 under Renato “Charuto” Verissimo, a UFC veteran and an integral figure in the legendary first generation of Team Nova Uniao in Brazil. Charuto brought fluidity, creativity, and high-level nuance to Chris’ game. In 2023, Chris was promoted to 4th-degree Black Belt with Nova Uniao Hawaii—an achievement that honors decades of dedication, perseverance, and passion for the art.

Beyond the Mat: The Art & Philosophy of Bruce Lee

Chris’s commitment to lifelong learning expanded beyond Jiu-Jitsu. He trained in Jeet Kune Do and Filipino Kali under Guro Burton Richardson and Guro Dan Inosanto, Bruce Lee’s protégé. These arts taught more than techniques—they revealed truths about economy of motion, adaptability, and self-expression. Today, those same principles flow through the fabric of our academy, shaping a style that honors both tradition and evolution.

Lessons from the Leg Lock Godfather

Chris also studied with Dean Lister, a multi-time ADCC champion and leg lock pioneer whose philosophy—“Why ignore 50% of the body?”—transformed the global grappling landscape. Dean’s influence helped shape the leg lock curriculum at our academy, giving our students access to cutting-edge submission strategies grounded in precision and technique.

Supportive. Experienced. Student-Focused

Led by a 4th-degree Black Belt with over 30 years of experience in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Our teaching focuses on respect, realism, and longevity—offering a beginner-friendly, family-oriented space for all ages and body types. Whether you're older, non-athletic, or brand new to martial arts, classes are safe, welcoming, and designed for sustainable progress. Ohana fosters a relaxed, purposeful atmosphere where students grow at their own pace. It’s not about competition—it’s about confidence, movement, and community.