Post by : Maya Rahman

The Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship commenced today, incorporated within the broader Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship. The excitement from the opening day was palpable, with significant participation from acclaimed clubs and academies both locally and internationally. Numerous young talents arrived, eager to compete and demonstrate the skills they have honed over extensive training periods.

Sunday’s competitions were specifically designed for athletes aged 10 to 17, who competed in the grey, yellow, orange, and green belt categories. Each match reflected solid technical abilities and meticulous training. Despite their youth, participants exhibited confidence and focus, executing sharp movements and precise techniques. Coaches and families in the audience expressed pride in the athletes’ commitment.

This marks the seventeenth edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, held under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council. His vested interest underlines the UAE’s commitment to nurturing jiu-jitsu and supporting young athletes. This championship has distinguished itself as one of the world's premier jiu-jitsu events, drawing thousands of entrants annually.

The event welcomed numerous distinguished officials and leaders from both the UAE and the global jiu-jitsu community. Notable figures included Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and President of the Ju-Jitsu Asian Union, alongside Odonbaatar Shijeekhuu, Mongolian Ambassador to the UAE. Other key attendees were Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Ahmed Fadhel Al Mehairbi, and several others, all showcasing robust support for the sport and the cultivation of young talent.

UAEJJF Board Member Yousef Abdullah Al Batran commended the opening day, remarking on the advanced level of both organisation and competitive skill on display. He noted that these young competitors represent the future of jiu-jitsu and will develop into the next generation of national team players. He further emphasized that the broad international participation underscores the championship’s esteemed global status and the confidence the world places in Abu Dhabi's ability to host significant sporting events.

Redha Monfaredi, Vice President of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union, expressed pride in attending such a noteworthy event. He articulated that the championship has elevated the global standard of jiu-jitsu while encouraging increased participation in the sport. Additionally, he highlighted the UAE’s pivotal role in promoting jiu-jitsu regionally and internationally.

Fernando Almeida, a coach from UFC Gym Middle East, mentioned that this is their third participation in the event. For many athletes on his team, it serves as their first major international competition. He conveyed that events like these facilitate faster growth, as young athletes have the opportunity to engage with peers from different countries and styles. His team of 16 is eagerly looking to gain experience, confidence, and motivation.

The championship resumes tomorrow (Monday) featuring the youth blue and purple belt divisions, anticipated to be even more competitive, with emerging talents from the UAE and beyond ready to showcase their skills. All involved—from coaches and families to fans—are excitedly awaiting another thrilling day of competition.

#Sports News