Escobar Training Grounds to raise funds for injured South Lake Tahoe man

A day of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and self-defense classes will beheld on January 13 at Escobar Training Grounds in South Lake Tahoe to raise funds for a local athlete involved in a deadly car crash on Highway 395 December 28.

MMA legend Gilbert Melendez will be joined by friends on January 13 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Escobar for Coco’s Comeback, a one-day seminar which will be both a welcoming and enriching experience for athletes of all skill levels and a fundraiser for Chris "Coco" Cocores, a champion MMA fighter.

Cocores, 26, was traveling to La Mesa, California with his girlfriend, 21-year-old Cecilia Casares and dog when their vehicle crossed over a solid yellow line into the path of two other vehicles. Casares, who was behind the wheel, and their dog were killed, and Cocores has been hospitalized with a broken back, broken arm and several internal injuries ever since.

To help with medical costs, a GoFundMe account has been set up and many local businesses have been assisting with fundraising efforts: https://www.gofundme.com/team-coco.

The January 13 schedule:
10:00 a.m. Mat 1- Children- Younger athletes are invited to receive hands-on instruction, from the area’s most accomplished instructors. Participants will learn the fundamental techniques that form the foundation of martial arts.

10:00 a.m. Mat 2- Women’s Self-Defense- Participants in this seminar will be provided with the opportunity to learn and enhance skills that are proven to increase confidence, awareness, and safety in critical situations.

11:00 a.m. Mat 1- Beginners- Athletes with less experience will receive an introductory lesson designed to provide a base knowledge of integral mixed martial arts techniques.

11:00 a.m. Mat 2- Advanced Technique- Gilbert Melendez and other ultra-successful mixed martial artists will be offering their unrivaled insight. This seminar will be a “can’t miss” opportunity for ambitious athletes to draw knowledge from world-class competitors.

A donation of at least $20 is being asked for classes, and 100 percent of funds will go directly to Chris Cocores’ medical costs.

"It is our mission to ensure as much good as possible comes from this tragedy so please understand your contribution and participation will be valued. The day will be positive, and memorable. Do not be intimidated all are welcome," said Escobar Training Grounds.

For more information contact Escobar Training Grounds at 530-544-9010 or stop by 972 Tallac Ave, South Lake Tahoe, Calif.