SANDY, UT, January 19, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Duayne V. Bowers Jr. has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Bowers is the owner and head martial arts instructor at Gracie Barra Sandy, the first Gracie Barra school in Utah, which he established in April 2017. As the highest-ranked Gracie Barra black belt in the state, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the jiu-jitsu landscape in Utah. Overseeing the overall curriculum, he guides fellow instructors, manages student progress and serves as head coach. He is also responsible for maintaining a clean and safe environment, emphasizing cleanliness to prevent contagious conditions such as staph infections and ringworm. In addition to his jiu-jitsu instruction, he teaches Pilates five days a week as a certified Pilates instructor and regularly holds parent meetings to foster communication within the school community.

The early years of Gracie Barra Sandy were marked by significant challenges due to the nascent jiu-jitsu scene in Utah. After being laid off from his previous career in 2016, Mr. Bowers seized the opportunity to pursue his passion for martial arts instruction full-time. The onset of the pandemic brought further adversity, with a dramatic drop in student enrollment that led to financial challenges. Despite these setbacks, he persevered and by 2023 had rebuilt the school into Utah's leading kids' martial arts program. His dedication was recognized with several accolades: best martial arts school, best kids' program, and best martial arts instructor in Utah award in 2024, best martial arts school, best kids program, and best martial arts instructor in Utah award in 2025 and an outstanding Google reviews award in 2025.

A highlight of Mr. Bowers' teaching career came when he awarded black belts to two longtime students—his business partner and his wife—both of whom began training with him shortly after the school opened. This milestone was especially meaningful, reflecting his commitment to empowering others and fostering confidence and success among his students, particularly children.

Prior to founding Gracie Barra Sandy, Mr. Bowers worked as a jet engine mechanic from 2003 to 2016. He began this career after completing aviation mechanics school and earning certification as an aircraft mechanic. Although skilled in this field, he found it unfulfilling and eventually sought new directions that would align more closely with his interests.

Mr. Bowers' professional journey began with service in the United States Marine Corps following his graduation from Leto High School, Hillsborough County Public Schools in Tampa in 1996. During his time with the Marine Corps, he spent one year stationed in Japan and two years in San Diego, where he developed a passion for surfing.

His introduction to martial arts came after his military service when he was introduced to the sport after joining a boxing academy that also offered jiu-jitsu classes. Mr. Bowers became deeply engaged with martial arts, finding it a positive outlet for stress. He attended his first jiu-jitsu class in January 2007 and quickly became dedicated to daily practice, ultimately earning his black belt in just over seven years.

Mr. Bowers is recognized for his expertise in teaching children the fundamentals and basics of jiu-jitsu, a skill that has contributed significantly to the growth of Gracie Barra Sandy's youth programs. He is an active member of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation and maintains involvement with civic organizations such as volunteering for the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation.

Mr. Bowers attributes much of his success to overcoming adversity during his upbringing, which was marked by poverty and alcoholism within his family. Motivated by a desire to break free from these circumstances, he has demonstrated resilience and determination throughout his life.

Outside of his professional commitments, Mr. Bowers enjoys spending time with his family and their four dogs. He also plays guitar and drums in his free time. Looking ahead, he plans to expand his impact on the community by opening a second school with his business partner and preparing one of his students to manage it upon earning their black belt. He also aims to establish both a Pilates school and studio, with aspirations for further expansion based on their success.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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