Pictured right is Kamila Cuesta vs. Valerie Ramirez at the 1st Annual Barbara Webster Takedown Tournament in Santa Barbara. Photo credit Gabriel Salazar.
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Pictured right is Dax Camacho vs. Zeke Zendejas during the 1st Annual Barbara Webster Takedown Tournament. Photo credit Gabriel Salazar.
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Pictured is Adelita Herrera vs. Adonis Salazar. Photo credit Gabriel Salazar.
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Pictured is Xjavier Zenedjas vs. Josiah Castaneda. Photo credit Gabriel Salazar.
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By Michael Torres
June 27, 2026 - Fillmore Jiu-Jitsu students from Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio recently competed at the 1st Annual Barbara Webster Takedown Tournament, a new event organized by Barbara Webster Elementary School’s grappling coach Leo Zendejas. The tournament featured a hybrid rule set blending Freestyle Wrestling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, with competitors earning points for takedowns and push outs, giving young athletes a chance to test grappling skills from both disciplines in a single competitive format.
Fillmore & Barbara Webster students competed in divisions separated by age and weight, with several Fillmore athletes finishing on the podium. Representing the Fillmore team and taking first place were Omar Amaya, Dax Camacho, Kamila Cuesta, Adelita Herrera, Danny Izquerda, Anthony Zendejas, Leo Zendejas Jr., and Theo Zendejas. Earning second place were Jaece Hernandez, Jaedon Hernandez, Roman Hernandez, Diego Herrera, Emiliano Manzo, Adonis Salazar, and Xjavier Zendejas. Rounding out the third-place finishers were Amelia Andrade, Josiah Castaneda, Emma Cuesta, and Zeke Zendejas.
The tournament’s debut success suggests it could become an annual highlight for young wrestlers and jiu jitsu practitioners throughout the community. For more information on jiu-jitsu classes, call or text 805-443-8501.

Above is the Fillmore High School Cross Country Alumni, pictured (l-r) are Camilo Torres, Nicholas Hurtado, Juan Carlos Laureano and Angel Laureano, who competed in the 42nd Annual 4th of July Run in Newhall and will next join the Boogie Nights 5K along the Ventura Beach on Wednesday, July 8, at 6:20 p.m.
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Pictured right are father and son Michael and Camilo Torres, finishing the Annual 4th of July 5K Race in Newhall.
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Above is the Herrera family who competed at the Annual 4th of July 5K race in Newhall this past weekend.
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On Saturday morning, 11 Fillmore runners challenged themselves by competing in the 42nd Annual 4th of July run in Newhall. The 5-kilometer race was contested on city streets on a relatively flat course 930 runners finished the 3.1 miles.
Top finisher for this race was Fillmore’s Camilo Torres. Camilo, formerly a Fillmore High School and Big West and Division 1 top runner and student at Cal State University at Northridge covered the course in 14:51.87. Other Fillmore runners included Aleks Laureano in 17:52.73, Francisco Bernardino 18:07.89, Noah Flores 18:29.87, Angel Laureano 19:51.54, Angelica Herrera 22:35.94, Irma Torres 23:33.07, Monica Herrera 28:03.48, Juan Laureano 29:11.18, McKenzie Hernandez 31:32.12, and Shelby Barrios 31:33.11. In the team competition, Fillmore Jiu-Jitsu Club/Mario Aiello BJJ placed 5th. Nicholas Hurtado, a resident of Piru and a former student/athlete at Fillmore High School, joined the Fillmore contingent and posted a time of 18:38.39. Other Piru runners included Ashley Le Blanc 23:50.37, and Conor Le Blanc 29:09.12.
The 4th of July run also feature a 1-kilometer Kid K. Dax Camacho, Adelita Herrera, and Diego Herrera participated in this event, with Diego finishing in 1st overall.
Members of the Fillmore Cross Country teams will next join the runners of the Boogie Nights 5K along the Ventura Beach on Wednesday night at 6:20 p.m.

On Wednesday, June 24, Fillmore’s 8U Girls All-Star team headed off to the State Championship, but not without a send-off car parade with assistances from the Fillmore Police Department as they cruised around Fillmore honking and waving, with family, friends and neighbors cheering them on. Photo credit Angel Esquivel.

Above is Fillmore’s Dax Camacho with Coach Michael Torres. Dax claimed first place, and in No-gi he was equally dominant, winning all three of his matches securing another first-place finish and a true double-gold performance on the JJWL stage going 5-0 on the day. Photos by David Gonzalez & Diana Camacho.
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By Michael Torres
June 20, 2026-Athletes from Perce’s Kenpo Karate took to the mat at the Jiu-Jitsu World League’s “Worlds 2026 Tournament” held at the Long Beach Sports Arena, with several team members earning podium finishes.
In the adult blue belt division, Jose Ramirez battled through the men’s ultra heavyweight bracket to a third-place finish, posting a 3-1 record. It was his final blue belt performance as he was promoted to purple belt by coaches Mario Aiello and Michael Torres after the event. Emma Lopez turned in a strong run in the women’s blue belt heavyweight division, going 1-1 on her way to a second-place finish. Lopez also stepped up in the combined women’s blue & purple belt no-gi upper weight division, going 1-1, earning another second-place finish for a strong two-medal day. Dayana Ramirez competed in the women’s lightweight gi division but came up short in earning a medal, losing both of her matches by points.
The youth division saw a standout performance from Dax Camacho, who swept both gi and no-gi competition in the white belt 50-59 lb. bracket. In the gi division, Dax went 2-0 to claim first place, and in no-gi he was equally dominant, winning all three of his matches securing another first-place finish and a true double-gold performance on the JJWL stage going 5-0 on the day.
All athletes train under Gracie Humaita Black Belt Michael Torres at Perce’s Kenpo Karate, representing Team Mario Aiello Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The studio is operated by Sifu Paul Perce and offers Karate, Kickboxing and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for men, women, and children of all experience levels. For more information, call 805-524-6870, text 805-443-8501 or email fillmorebjj@gmail.com.

By Tony Cruz
A decade in the making. For the first time since 2015, the Fillmore 8U All-Stars are heading to the State Championship. Only a handful of Fillmore teams have ever reached this level, making this accomplishment even more remarkable.
The girls punched their ticket to State this past weekend at the District Championships, finishing in the Top 4 and earning their spot among California’s best teams.
These young ladies have shown heart, grit, determination, and teamwork all season long. They have represented our community with pride and earned the opportunity to compete on the biggest stage.
Congratulations, girls. You’ve already made Fillmore proud. Now go enjoy the moment, play your game, and know that your families, coaches, and the entire community are behind you every step of the way.
Good luck at State, Fillmore 8U All-Stars!

Above is Cayden Balades of Fillmore High School who placed 2nd at the Annual Matt Hickman Memorial Tournament in Camarillo this past Saturday, June 6. Photos by Alicia Flores.

Above is Cayden Balades during his match at the Annual Matt Hickman Memorial Tournament in Camarillo this past Saturday, June 6. Photos by Alicia Flores.
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By Michael Torres
On Saturday, June 6th, Camarillo, CA -Incoming Fillmore High School 9th grader Cayden Balades earned an impressive 2nd place finish at the Annual Matt Hickman Memorial Tournament in Camarillo. Balades has been sharpening his skills on the local circuit through USA Wrestling Freestyle competitions, earning the honor of representing the Tri-Counties in dual competitions. With talent, experience, and a competitive drive already on display, Balades is shaping up to be a newcomer to watch when he suits up for the Flashes this coming summer season.
FHS will be hosting a Summer School Wrestling Program open to all boys and girls, featuring two home meets at the FHS Gym on Saturday, July 18th and Saturday, July 25th. Any FHS athlete interested in joining the program is encouraged to reach out to Coach Torres at michael.torres@fillmoreusd.org and take the first step toward becoming a Flashes wrestler. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a growing program with a bright future ahead.

FILLMORE, Calif. – The Heritage Valley Blazers Track & Field Club is celebrating a major milestone after seven athletes qualified for the 2026 USATF National Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships, earning the opportunity to compete against the best youth athletes from across the country.
The national qualifiers span multiple disciplines, including race walking, middle-distance running, javelin, shot put, and discus, reflecting the club’s commitment to developing athletes across all areas of track and field.
2026 USATF National Junior Olympic Qualifiers
• Ethan Leighton – 3000m Race Walk
• Janessa Montiel – 1500m Race Walk
• Lily Mendez – 800 Meters
• Pablo Cervantes (8U) – Javelin
• Sophia Rivera – Shot Put & Discus
• Isaac Rivera – Javelin & Discus
• Max Magaña – 1500m Race Walk
For the Heritage Valley Blazers, the accomplishment is about much more than qualifying athletes—it is a testament to resilience and adaptability.
Throughout the regular season, the team is fortunate to have access to Fillmore high school track for training. However, as the postseason approaches, that access becomes increasingly limited. Once championship competition begins, the club no longer has access to the high school track or field event facilities and must shift its preparation to local parks, open spaces, and whatever community resources are available.
Despite those challenges, the athletes continued to train with determination, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to their goals.
“Our athletes never make excuses,” said Head Coach Kenny Leighton. “When access to the track and field facilities became unavailable during the most important part of the season, they adapted. We found ways to train in local parks and community spaces, and the kids embraced every challenge with a positive attitude. Qualifying seven athletes for nationals is a credit to their hard work, their families’ support, and the belief that success comes from effort—not circumstances.”
The group represents athletes ranging from elementary school competitors to high school standouts, each with a unique journey but united by a shared commitment to improvement and perseverance.
Among the qualifiers are young throwers developing into elite competitors, dedicated race walkers mastering one of track and field’s most technical events, and middle-distance runners who have worked tirelessly to reach the national stage. Together, they embody the Heritage Valley Blazers’ philosophy that character, consistency, and teamwork are just as important as medals and records.
The team will now prepare for the USATF National Junior Olympic Track & Field Championships, being held for the 1st time in 19 years in the state of California, where they will proudly represent Fillmore, Ventura County, and the Heritage Valley Blazers against the nation’s top youth talent.
About the Heritage Valley Blazers
The Heritage Valley Blazers Track & Field Club is a Fillmore-based youth program dedicated to helping young athletes develop athletic excellence, confidence, discipline, and leadership. Through quality coaching and a family-centered environment, the Blazers provide opportunities for athletes of all ages to compete, grow, and pursue their dreams on the local, regional, and national stage.
Courtesy Head Coach Kenny Leighton

Above is Warriors Blood’s Jiu-Jitsu Noah Ramirez against Dax Camacho of Fillmore at the Santa Maria Grappling X Coastal Jiu-Jitsu Championship Tournament. Photos credit Diana Camacho.
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Above is David Rios of Velocity Jiu Jitsu against Devin Camacho. Photos credit Diana Camacho.
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Story by Michael Torres
May 27, 2026 — Two brothers, Dax and Devin Camacho, put on an outstanding performance at the Santa Maria Grappling X Coastal Jiu-Jitsu Championship Tournament. Dax Camacho competed in the Kids 8-Year-Old 60 lb. White Belt division, earning a silver medal in the Gi division with a 2-1 record — both wins by submission — before falling in the finals 2-5. In the No-Gi division, he went one better, taking home the gold medal with three dominant wins by points, outscoring his opponents 9-0, 5-0, and 10-0 in the finals. His older brother Devin Camacho stepped up in the highly competitive Adult White Belt No-Gi 165 lb. division and came home with a well-earned third-place bronze medal.
Both brothers train under Professor Michael Torres at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio, led by Sifu Paul Perce, a 9th Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo Karate. The studio offers classes for kids and adults in Karate, Kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Call 805-524-6870 or email fillmorebjj@gmail.com for more information.

VENTURA, CA — June 1, 2026 — City Impact, Inc. celebrated a landmark morning on the Ventura Promenade on Saturday, May 30, as the 16th Annual Beachfront Run drew its largest field in event history. With 1,267 registered runners — a new record — participants of all ages and abilities took to the scenic coastal course in support of City Impact’s mental health, youth outreach and family services programs serving over 500 Ventura County residents annually.
This year’s event not only attracted regional runners in Ventura County from Newbury Park, Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, Fillmore, Simi Valley, Santa Paula, Camarillo and Ventura, but also runners from San Diego, Carpinteria, Long Beach, Palmdale, Lancaster, Santa Clarita, Santa Maria, Whittier, Santa Barbara, Bakersfield, Sylmar and Reno, Nevada. Following are finalist winner results for first and second place runners.
FINAL RACE RESULTS
Congratulations 10K Run/Walk winner Francisco Bernardino of Fillmore, time 40:43.
* Full results and age category placements available at runsignup.com/Race/CA/Ventura/CIBeachfrontRun. Awards were presented to the top three finishers in each 10-year age category.
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
“Every step taken and every dollar raised stays right here in Ventura County — elevating education, bolstering mental health resources, and strengthening families,” said Cynthia Torres, Executive Director of City Impact.
who served as Master of Ceremonies. “We are overwhelmed and grateful for this record-breaking show of community support.”
Saturday’s event featured a Kids 1K Fun Run, a Youth Art Showcase from City Impact’s at-promise youth, live music, a vendor marketplace, and a full awards ceremony along the scenic Ventura Promenade. Race announcements were provided live by Josh Spiker of Vendurance, the event’s official timing company.
2026 BEACHFRONT RUN SPONSORS
City Impact extends deep gratitude to the sponsors whose generosity made the 16th Annual Beachfront Run possible: Gold Partners — T-Mobile Foundation, Cumulus Media, American Medical Response and New Dawn Counseling & Consulting. Silver Partners — Advanced Structural Technologies, Fence Factory, Nadia Ruiz and ThemePark Studios.
ABOUT CITY IMPACT, INC.
City Impact, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has served at-promise children, youth and families in Ventura County for three decades through culturally-sensitive counseling, mentorship and outreach programs. With 18 employees including licensed therapists and youth specialists, City Impact serves over 500 individuals annually — 97% from low-income households, 96% from the Hispanic/Latino community throughout Ventura County. City Impact was named one of the “Best Places to Work 2024” by the Workforce Development Board of Ventura County. For more information, visit www.cityimpact.com or call (805) 983-3636.

By Michael Torres
May 23, 2026, AZUSA, Calif. — Emma Lopez and Jose Ramirez, both students at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio, turned in standout performances at the Grappling X Jiu Jitsu World Championships in Azusa, California.
Lopez competed in the women’s divisions, earning a silver medal in the no-gi blue/purple belt (Intermediate) 160 lbs. and above bracket and a bronze in the Gi Blue division at the same weight — a remarkable double-medal day across two different formats.
Ramirez entered the Male Masters 1 (30–39) divisions and went one better, claiming the championship belt and gold medal in the gi blue 200 lbs. and above bracket before finishing as silver medalist in the corresponding no-gi competition. It is his second championship belt that he has earned as he won a North American Grappling Association Jiu-Jitsu belt last year.
Both athletes train under black belt Professor Michael Torres, the head jiu-jitsu coach at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio, which is led by Sifu Paul Perce, a 9th-degree black belt in American Kenpo Karate. The studio offers classes in karate, kickboxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for students of all levels. For more information on classes, call 805-524-6870.

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Story by Michael Torres
May 16, 2026 - A young competitor from Fillmore made his mark at a major regional tournament over the weekend. Dax Camacho, a student at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio, claimed the gold medal in the boys white belt 60 lb. division at the 2026 Dream Jiu-Jitsu California Kids Championships, finishing the day with a perfect 3-0 record. The event was held at Cal State Fullerton’s Titan Arena. Dream Jiu Jitsu tournaments are popular themed tournaments for children aged 4–15, focusing on Gi and No-Gi competition.
Camacho went three for three on the mat, winning each of his matches to stand atop the podium in what is one of the most competitive youth jiu-jitsu events in the area. The performance was a strong showing for the young grappler, who continues to develop under the coaching of Michael Torres, the head Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu coach at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio. Camacho will next compete at a Grappling X Tournament in Santa Maria and Jiu-Jitsu World League event in Long Beach.
For more information on classes, email Coach Torres at fillmorebjj@gmail.com.

On Saturday, May 16, 2026, Flashes sophomore Adrianna Deleon competed at the CIF Finals in Track & Field Division 3. Adrianna was the solo athlete who competed at the highly competitive CIF Finals this past weekend. She also placed 8th in the discus competition. Photo credit Coach Tony Tafoya.

On Saturday, May 16th, track and field athletes from all divisions, and throughout the Southern Section of California gathered to compete at Moorpark High School for the chance to represent their school at the Masters meet, a week later.
Adrianna Deleon, a sophomore at Fillmore High School was the Flashes lone representative in the Division 4 discus competition at this championship meet. Adrianna placed 8th in this event with a toss of 101’ 07”.
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College Athletes Compete at Big West Championship
On Friday and Saturday, CSU Northridge athletes competed at the Big West Championships. This meet was held at Jack Rose Track in Long Beach, California.
On Friday, Omar Heredia, and Diego Rodriguez competed in the finals of the 3000-meter steeplechase. Diego finished 13th in 9:31.81, and Omar finished 18th in 10:08.21. Camilo Torres also ran on Friday in the 1500-meter run, and placed 12th in 3:56.73. This place and time qualified Camilo to come back on Saturday and compete in the finals. On Saturday, Camilo ran in the 1500-meter finals and placed 11th in 3:55.46. Later that evening Camilo competed in the 5000-meter run and finished in 24th, posting a time of 15:19.41.
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Rotary Club 5K/10K Race
On Saturday, more than 300 runners/walkers toed the starting line of the Fillmore Rotary Club’s 5K/10K race. This race also featured a Kids 1K run.
In the Girls 1K, Penelope Lupercio was 1st in 4:44. She was followed by Elise Barragan in 4:55, and Lily Rodriguez in 4:58. In the Boys 1K, Diego Elias Herrera was the top finisher in a time of 4:45. He was followed by Hunter Simpson in 4:55, and Lu Theule in 5:34.
In the 5K race, Angel Garcia was the winner in a time of 16:58. He was followed by Aleks Laureano in 17:15, and Jarod Ebenhack in 17:31. The top female finisher was Anna Jane Mohun, who finished 15th overall in 21:09. She was followed by Lexi Whitman in 21:55, and Camila Estrada in 22:48.
In the 10-kilometer men’s race, Logan Torres was your winner in 34:56. He was followed by Dylan Atwater in 36:06, and Jake Williams in 37:02. The top female finisher was Sarah Nakutin Baxter,13th overall in 44:22. She was followed by Anna-Marie Frisch in 46:37, and Erika Robles in 48:13.
In the 5K team competition, the Wildfire Elite Endurance Club 1, claimed first in 1:40.09. They were followed by Team Yaya 1 in 2:07.28, and April’s Super Hero’s in 2:08.07.
In the 10K team competition, Santa Clarita Runners 1, was 1st in 3:45.06. They were followed by Team Yaya in 4:01.01, and Santa Clarita Runners 2 in 4:22.13.
Complete results for this race can be found at racefoxresults.com.
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Ramirez Runs La Jolla Half Marathon
On Saturday, Diego Ramirez a student at Cal State San Diego, challenged himself by running the La Jolla half marathon. Diego, who ran both cross country and track at Fillmore high school finished the 13.1-mile course in 1 hour 35 minutes.

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Former Fillmore High School standout student-athlete Camilo Torres has put the finishing touches on a remarkable collegiate running career, leaving an indelible mark on the Cal State University, Northridge (CSUN) men’s track & field and cross country programs.
The son of Michael and Maria Torres, and grandson of James and Rosie Torres, Jeronimo and Matilde Laureano. Camilo has excelled at the highest levels of Division I athletics while simultaneously cementing his status as an elite scholar in the classroom.
Record-Breaking Athletic Career
Torres made an immediate impact for the Matadors as a true freshman in 2022, writing his name into the university record books at the NCAA West Regional. There, he shattered the CSUN men’s 10k Division I school record with a blistering time of 30:57.7.
Throughout his career, Torres remained the driving force of the Matadors’ distance squad. During the 2024 cross country season, he consistently paced CSUN, securing a stellar 6th-place overall finish at the Master’s Invitational with an 8k time of 24:32.50, and leading the team at the Waves Invitational.
Most recently, Torres represented the Matadors at the prestigious Big West Outdoor Track & Field Championships. He successfully advanced to the fiercely competitive men’s 1500-meter final, placing 11th overall with a time of 3:55.46, and also battled through a grueling 5000-meter event to finish 24th.
He leaves CSUN with an elite resume of personal bests across multiple distances:
• 1500 Meters: 3:51.76
• Mile: 4:16.81
• 3000 Meters: 8:37.85
• 5000 Meters: 14:41.04
Academic Excellence
As impressive as his athletic achievements are, Torres has been equally dominant in his academic pursuits. In 2024, he was named CSUN Scholar of the Year. He was also named to the USTFCCCA All-Academic Team for the 2025 Division I cross country season—a national honor reserved for athletes who maintain elite grade-point averages while competing in national championships.
Additionally, he is a multiple-time recipient of both Big West All-Academic and MPSF All-Academic accolades. Torres officially graduates with honors from the rigorous CSUN School of Engineering, capping off a stellar collegiate chapter and setting a prime example of what a true student-athlete can achieve.

Above are FHS Jumpers for the CIF Prelims Division 3 events (l-r): Delilah Lupercio, Coach Bill Dabbs, Janessa, Corona, and Saul Fraga-Sandoval. Photo credit Coach Anthony Chavez.
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On Saturday, May 9, the Flashes Track and Field teams competed at the CIF Division 3 Prelims in Yorba Linda. Pictured is the Girls x100m Relay Team which finished 3rd in their event. Pictured (l-r) are Mia Munoz, Delilah Lupercio, Kimberly Magana, and Janessa Corona. Photo credit Coach Anthony Chavez.
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On Saturday, May 9, six members of the Fillmore High School track and field team traveled to Yorba Linda to compete in the CIF Southern Section Division 3 Prelims.
The first Fillmore group of athletes to compete in the track events was the Varsity girls 4 X 100 relay team. Team members were Janessa Corona, Kimberly Magana, Delilah Lupercio, and Mia Munoz. This girls team finished 3rd in their heat in a personal best time of 50.43.
Kimberly Magana and Janessa Corona followed in the Girls 100-meter run. Kimberly finished 3rd in her heat in 12.38. Janessa finished 6th in the same heat in 13.08.
Saul Fraga-Sandoval followed in the Boys 100-meter run, and finished 5th in his heat in 11.02.
Camila Rodriguez qualified to run in the Girls 3200 meter run but was unable to compete due to an injury.
In the field events, Saul Fraga -Sandoval, finished 3rd in his flight of the boys long jump, jumping 20’ 3”. Janessa Corona finished 4th in her flight of the girls long jump, leaping 16’ ½”.
In the boys shot put, Isaac Rivera placed 10th in his flight putting 43’ 11 ¾”. Isaac also competed in the discus, placing 2nd in his flight in 129’ 8”.
In the girls shot put, Hermelinda Ocegueda placed 5th in her flight in 31’ 11”. Teammate, Adrianna DeLeon placed 7th in the same flight in 31’ 7 ½”.
Adrianna doubled back in the discus and won her flight in a personal best throw of 111’ 07”. Overall Adrianna placed 4. She was Fillmore’s only athlete to qualify for the CIF Southern Section Divisional Finals.
The CIF Southern Section Divisional Finals will be held at Moorpark High School on May 16th. Running events begin at 12:00 PM, and field events start at 9:30 AM.

Pictured above is Diego Murillo raising his arm in victory during his match at the 2026 Grappling X West Coast Jiu-Jitsu Championships. Diego finished the tournament by claiming gold in the heavyweight blue belt intermediate division. Photo credit Michael Torres.
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Pictured above left is Amelia Andrade who swept both the gi and no-gi divisions to claim double gold in the 7–8-year-old, 70 lb. female white belt division. Center is Coach Michael Torres, right is Dax Camacho who earned a bronze in gi and a silver in no-gi in the 60 lb. kids white belt division. Photo credit Michael Torres.
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Above is Fillmore’s Mateo De La Cruz vs. a Machado Jiu Jitsu student. Photo credit Michael Torres.
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Pictured is Fillmore’s Dax Camacho vs. a Malibu Jiu Jitsu student. Photo credit Michael Torres.
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Above is Emma Lopez after her win over Checkmat Northridge BJJ. Photo credit Michael Torres.
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Pictured is Amelia Andrade vs. Chatsworth Academy of BJJ. Photo credit Michael Torres.
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By Michael Torres
May 9, 2026 —A group of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu competitors from Fillmore who train at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio brought home an impressive haul of medals at the 2026 Grappling X West Coast Jiu-Jitsu Championships, held at Westlake High School. The athletes competed across multiple divisions and age groups, from youth to adult.
Diego Murillo claimed gold in the heavyweight blue belt intermediate division, while Emma Lopez took the top spot in the 160 lb. female blue belt intermediate division. Dayana Ramirez earned silver in the 120 lb. female blue belt intermediate division, and Matthew Ramirez rounded out the adult results with a bronze in the highly competitive 165 lb. purple belt advanced division.
The youth competitors were equally impressive. Amelia Andrade had a standout day, sweeping both the gi and no-gi divisions to claim double gold in the 7–8-year-old, 70 lb. female white belt division. Fellow young competitor Dax Camacho also competed in both formats, earning a bronze in gi and a silver in no-gi in the 60 lb. kids white belt division. Teen competitor Mateo De La Cruz showed well across two weight classes — 90 lb. and 115 lb. — in the yellow and orange belt divisions, capturing a silver and a bronze.
The team trains under Gracie Humaita 2nd-degree black belt Michael Torres, himself a student of Gracie Humaita coral belt Master Mario Aiello. For more information on classes, email Coach Torres at fillmorebjj@gmail.com or text 805-443-8501.

Pictured is Jose Ramirez with Coach Torres. Story and photo credit Coach Michael Torres & Silverio Garcia.
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Story and photo credit Coach Michael Torres & Silverio Garci
On April 28, 2026, Jose Ramirez accomplished something few competitors ever achieve in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: back-to-back Season Champion titles in the Jiu-Jitsu World League (JJWL). The blue belt competitor trains at Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio in Fillmore, CA, under head jiu-jitsu instructor Michael Torres, a Gracie Humaita Black Belt under Coral Belt, Master Mario Aiello. Competing tirelessly month in and month out over the past two years, Ramirez’s back-to-back championships produced a combined total of 271 points, 23 wins, and 7 submissions — numbers that reflect not only his skill on the mat, but his unwavering commitment to the sport.
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) is a grappling art centered on achieving victory through submission holds, joint locks, and chokes — techniques that allow a skilled practitioner to control and submit an opponent regardless of size or strength. The Jiu-Jitsu World League Season Champion title is one of the most prestigious recognitions in regional BJJ competition. It is not won at a single event, but earned through consistent, high-level performance across an entire season. Using the JJWL’s Advanced Points System, competitors accumulate points through wins, podium finishes, and submissions at events throughout the year. At season’s end, only those ranking in the top 2% of competitors in their age, weight, gender and belt division — based on total points, wins, submissions, and medals — are awarded the Season Champion title. Earning it twice in a row places Ramirez in truly elite company.
Perce’s Kenpo Karate Studio offers Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes for both kids and adults, giving students of all ages the opportunity to train under the same Gracie Humaita Jiu-Jitsu lineage that has shaped a back-to-back champion. Ramirez’s success is a shining example of what dedicated training and world-class instruction can produce right here in Fillmore.

Pictured above is Flashes Junior Mia Munoz who competed in the Girls Varsity 200-meter relay and finished 9th with a time of 28.33.
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Pictured is FHS senior Janessa Corona who finished 3rd in the JV Girls 100-meter dash in 13.00, as well as placed 2nd the Girls Varsity Long Jump in 15’-00” at the Citrus Coast League Final.
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On Thursday, April 30th, the Fillmore track athletes who met the qualifying league standards, traveled to Carpinteria High School, and competed in the Citrus Coast League Finals. Athletes placing among the top three in the varsity races and meeting a divisional qualifying standard had the opportunity to compete at their respective California Southern Section Divisional Prelim meet.
The JV Girls 4x100 meter relay was the first running event of the afternoon. Alejandra Robles, Emma Ortiz, Barbara Soltero, and Giselle Villareal captured 2nd place in 56.50. The Varsity girls 4 X 100-meter relay team placed 2nd in 50.79. Team members were Janessa Corona, Kimberly Magana, Delilah Lupercio, and Mia Munoz.
In the JV Girls 1600-meter run, Gabriela Lopez placed (3rd in 6:15.28). Camila Soto followed (5th in 6:15.87), Melanie Martinez (12th in 6:34.71), Mariana Elvira (19th in 6:46.4), and Christina Setty (23rd in 6:53.41). Prince Kamradt captured 18th place in the F/S Boys 1600 meters in a time of 5:24.7. He was followed by Nikolias Cerda 21st in 5:34.0. In the Varsity Girls 1600 meters Melanie Flores placed (8th in 6:05.). In the Varsity Boys 1600-meter run, Damian Santa Rosa was Fillmore’s top finisher, (11th in 4:50.34). These were personal best times for Gabriela and Camila.
Giselle Villareal was 6th in the JV Girls 400 meter run in 72.90. She was followed by Jessica Aparicio (9th in 1:15.66). Jack Ignacio placed 7th in the F/S Boys 400 meter run in 62.41. Jaiden Peacock was 7th in the Varsity Girls 400-meter run posting a time of 66.99. She was followed by Andrea Gamez (9th in 68.09), Delilah Lupercio (10th in 68.76
In the Varsity Boys 400 meters, Nathan Hernandez was Fillmore’s top finisher, placing (5th in 53.24), he was followed by Orlando Vigil Tello who placed (12th in 58.42).
In the JV Girls 100-meter dash, Barbara Soltero took (2nd in 14.35). She was followed by Emma Ortiz (8th in 14.62), and Alejandra Robles (9th in 14.65). Draco Centurion finished 1st in the F/S Boys 100-meter sprint in 11.99. He was followed by James Magana Jr. (2nd in 12.19), Nathan Lepe (7th in 12.65), Elijah Sandoval (11th in 12.81), Domenic Corona (13th in 12.85), Harley Halcon (15th in 12.96), and Francisco Ruiz Jr. (24th in 13.34). Kimberly Magana won the Varsity Girls 100 meters in 12.34. She was followed by Janessa Corona (3rd in 13.00), Mia Munoz (11th in 13.69), and Sarah Cedillos (13th in 14.05). Saul Fraga-Sandoval won the Varsity Boys 100 meters in 10.93. He was followed by Andrew Estrada (4th in 11.44), Jasiah Patterson (8th in 11.63), and Joshua Felix (9th in 11.76).
The JV Girls 800-meter run, Gabriela Lopez placed (6th in 2:55.94). Melanie Martinez followed (7th in 2:57.14), Mariana Elvira (12th in 3:04.04), and Christina Setty (17th in 3:08.16). Prince Kamradt finished 11th in the F/S Boys 800 meters in 2:27.36. Nikolias Cerda finished (15th in 2:37.59).
Camila Rodriguez was the top Varsity Girl for Fillmore in the 800 meters, finishing (1st in 2:25.23). She was followed by Andrea Gamez (8th in 2:45.93), and Melanie Flores (9th in 2:46.89). In the Varsity Boys 800 meter, Damian Santa Rosa was Fillmore’s top finisher (6th in 2:10.14). Melanie Martinez, Mariana Elvira, and Christina Setty ran personal best times.
In the JV Girls 200 meters, Barbara Soltero was 7th in 30.79. She was followed by Emma Ortiz (9th in 31.56), Giselle Villareal (17th in 32.26), Jessica Aparicio (18th in 32.27), and Alejandra Robles (20th in 32.35). In the F/S Boys 200 meters, Draco Centurion placed (1st in 24.69). He was followed by Domenic Corona (10th in 26.48), Elijah Sandoval (11th in 26.68), Francisco Ruiz Jr. (16th in 27.40), and Harley Halcon (19th in 27.64). Domenic and Francisco ran personal best times. In the Varsity Girls 200-meter dash Kimberly Magana was (2nd in 26.72). She was followed by Mia Munoz (9th in 28.33), Jaiden Peacock (11th in 29.20), and Sara Cedillos (17th in 30.77). In the Varsity Boys 200-meter race, Saul Fraga-Sandoval finished 1st in 22.54. He was followed by Joshua Felix (5th in 23.62), and Orlando Vigil Tello was (15th in 25.85). Joshua ran a personal best time.
In the JV Girls 4x400 meter relay, the team of Emma A. Ortiz, Barbara Soltero, Giselle Villareal, and Gabriela Lopez placed (3rd in 4:56.78). This was a team personal best time. The F/S Boys team of Domenic Corona, Nathan Lepe, Draco Centurion, and Elijah Sandoval placed (3rd in 4:04.62).
In the JV Girls discus, Desiree Marrufo posted a throw of 74’ 01” to finish second in this event. Teammate Teresa Rangel was (4th in 72’ 05”), Sophia Rivera (7th in 61’ 02”), Liliana Patterson (8th in 60’ 04”), Nancy Anguiano (9th in 59’ 07”), Karla Bueno (11th in 57’ 09”), and Jozelyn Ruiz (16th In 49’ 08”).
In the F/S Boys discus, Nathaniel Tafoya led all competitors with a throw of 96’ 0”. He was followed by Joseph Aguilar (9th in 78’ 08”), Joshua Morales (11th in 76’ 05”), and Elijah Prado (12th in 71’ 07”).
In the Varsity Girls discus competition, Adrianna Deleon was 1st with a throw of (104’ 03”). She was followed by Hermelinda Ocegueda (4th in 97’ 01”), Lucy Murrillo (7th in 84’ 03”, and Emily Soltero (10th in 74’ 11”).
In the Varsity Boys discus competition, Isaac Rivera beat all competitors with a throw of (126’ 10”). Isaiah Meza finished (3rd in 114’ 02”), Marcus Lechuga (4th in 114’ 02”), Emanuel Velazquez (11th in 105’ 03”), and Valentin Garcia (15th in 94’ 08”).
Desiree Marrufo placed 3rd in the JV Girls shot put with a toss of (23’ 0.75”). She was followed by Sophia Rivera (4th in 22’ 11.75”), Teresa Rangel (7th in 22’ 02.25”), Nancy Anguiano (9th in 20’ 09.75”). Lily Patterson (13th in 18’ 04”), Karla Bueno (14th in 18’ 1.75”), and Jozelyn Ruiz (10th in 17’ 11.5”). Nathaniel Tafoya placed 2nd in the F/S Boys shot put with a heave of 36’ 07”. He was followed by Elijah Prado (6th in 33’ 09.5”, Joseph Aguilar (8th in 33’ 4.5”), and Joshua Morales (12th in 32’ 3.75”). Hermelinda Ocegueda placed 2nd in the Varsity Girls shot put in (32’ 0.25”). She was followed by Adrianna Deleon (3rd in 31’ 00”), Lucy Murrillo (6th in 26’ 11.25”), Emily Soltero (8th in 25’ 04.75”), and Valerie Rodriguez (11th in 23’ 08”).
Isaac Rivera placed 1st in the Varsity Boys shot put with a personal best heave of (46’ 02”). He was followed by Marcus Lechuga (4th in 39’ 10.5””), Isaiah Meza (7th in 36’ 7.5”), and Emanuel Velazquez (8th in 33’ 08”).
Michelle Setty tied for 3rd in the Varsity Girls high jump with a personal best leap of (4’ 04”). In the F/S boys high jump, Jack Ignacio was (3rd in 4’ 11”). He was followed by Nathan Lepe (6th in 4’ 07”).
Janessa Corona placed 2nd the Varsity Girls long jump in (15’ 00”). In the F/S boys long jump, James Magana Jr. won this event in (17’ 8.75”). Saul Fraga-Sandoval won the Varsity Boys long jump, posting a mark of (20’ 07”). He was followed by Jasiah Patterson (5th in 18’ 11.25”), Joshua Felix (8th in 18’ 3.25”), and Nathan Hernandez (16’ 4.75”).
In the F/S boys triple jump, James Magana Jr., won the event in a jump of (35’ 01”). Delilah Lupercio placed 2nd in the Varsity Girls triple jump in (30’ 03.75”). She was followed by followed Sarah Cedillos (5th in 28’ 9.5”). In the Varsity Boys triple jump, Jasiah Patterson was 4th with a leap of (38’ 03.25”).
In the team competition, Fillmore placed 4th in the F/S Boys, the Varsity Boys team placed 3rd, the Junior Varsity Girls placed 4th, and the Varsity Girls were 2nd. Fillmore athletes claimed League Championships in 14 events. Five athletes will move on to post season competition.
On Saturday, May 9th, Fillmore’s CIF SS Division 3 Prelim qualifiers will travel to Yorba Linda High School. This meet is set to start at 10 a.m.

On April 26th, several Fillmore/Piru community members participated in the Aut2Run 14th Annual Event. The proceeds from this event fulfills the Autism Society of Ventura County mission of empowering everyone in the Autism community. Participants could chose from the following events: 15K, 10K, 1-Mile, Fun-K, and Virtual Race.
The top finisher from the Fillmore/Piru area in the 5K race was Orlando Castro in 23:19. He was followed by Jessica Brown in 24:47, Reid Morales 25:05, Everardo Magana 26:21, Ricardo Velleca Gomes 26:23, Gustavo Martinez 26:50, Gloria Castro 28:26, Mayra Regalado 29:07, Elisia Lugo 30:30, Rene Hernandez 30:45, Elizabeth Servin 31:03, Krystal Guerrero 33:01, Tonali Ibarra 33:04, Rubi Garcia 34:12, Ashley Yepez 34:36, Lydia Lara 37:32, Angel Paniagua 38:09, Yessi Cardoso 39:27, Marissa Lugo 39:30, Fabiola Ibarra Santos 39:37, Rebecca Velleca Gomes 39:38, Ale Martinez 40:16, Yanely Lara 40:53, Lucinda Bernardino 41:33, Mariah Garcia 41:37, Janelly Rojas 41:37, Berenice Ruiz 41:40, Alexandra Gaytan 51:46, Maricela Gonzalez 52:31, Justin Dinatale 54:51, Aude Barragan 55:23, Albert Luna 111- 58:44, Sandra Luna 58:45, Clemente Echaveste 58:48, Annette Vasquez 58:50, Frank Ramirez 1:01:02, Albert Luna Jr. 1:01:05, and Cynthia Garcia-Espinoza 1:01:17.
In the 10K race, Francisco Bernardino was the top finisher, posting a time of 38:45. He was followed by Gustavo Martinez in 53:22, Antonio Gomes 57:58, Rachele De Nicola 57:58, and Aaron Acevedo 1:07:54.
In the 15K, Gustavo Martinez was the top finisher in 1:20:12.

On May 1st, and 2nd, several Fillmore athletes competed in the Steve Scott Invitational held at University of California, Irvine.
On Friday, Camilo Torres placed second in the 1500 meter run in 3:51.76. This is a personal best time for Camilo and converts to a 4:10.3 mile or a 4:08.84/ 1600-meter.
On Friday, Diego Rodriguez placed 7th in the 3000-meter steeplechase in 9:37.98. Omar Heredia followed closely in the same race finishing 8th in a personal best time of 9:51.64. Logan Torres ran Unattached in the 5000-meter run, and finished 10th in 16:17.54.
Omar and Diego doubled back on Saturday competing in the 1500-meter run. Omar placed 7th in a personal best time of 4:06.04. He was followed by Diego, who finished 8th in a personal best of 4:06.4.
The Moorpark College athletes competed on Saturday at the 2026 SoCal Regional Track & Field Prelims, held at Memorial Stadium at Bakersfield College.
In the 1500-meter run, Angel Garcia placed 26th in 4:32.27. Angel doubled back in the 10:000 meter run and placed 26th in 36:06.79.
In the Men’s 4 X 100-meter relay, Moorpark placed 3rd in 41.95. They will advance to the finals. Team members were Ray Carmel, Roman Finley, Makhi Hooker, and Desmond Winbush. Moorpark’s 4 X 400-meter relay team finished in 4th place in 3:18.30. This was also a finals qualifier, and a season best for this team. Team members, Dominic Perez, Desmond Winbush, Roman Finney, and Makhi Hooker posted a winning time of 3:20.14. Makhi finished 23rd in the (100 meters in 10.91).

Pictured above is FHS graduate Angel Arnica competing for Moorpark College in the 5000m relay this past Friday, April 24, 2026.

On Friday, April 24th, Moorpark College hosted the 2026 Western Conference Finals.
One of the first events of the day was the Men’s 4 X 100-meter relay. Moorpark captured 1st place in this event in 41.47. Team members were Ray Carmel, Roman Finley, Makhi Hooker, and Desmond Winbush. In the Men’s 100-meter sprint, Makhi Hooker was 4th in a personal best time of 10.75. Makhi was also a member of the winning 4 X 400-meter relay team. Team members, Dominic Perez, Desmond Winbush, Roman Finney, and Makhi Hooker posted a winning time of 3:20.14. Makhi and his relay team members ran season best times in both the 4 X 100-meter race, and the 4 X 400-meter run.
In the Men’s 1500-meter run, Angel Garcia placed 9th in a personal best time of 4:12.04. Angel doubled back in the 5000-meter run and finished 17th in 16:46.29.
Makhi and Angel will now advance to the Southern California Prelims in Bakersfield on Saturday, May 2nd.