ABU DHABI: The 15th Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship began on Wednesday night at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City.
The championship, held under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, crown prince of Abu Dhabi and chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, will run until Nov. 10.
Action on the first day included competitors in the Kids 1 category (4-5 age group), Kids 2 (6-7), Kids 3 (8-9), Infant (10-11 white belts), as well as para-jiu-jitsu athletes, representing various clubs and academies globally.
Mohamed Salem Al-Dhaheri, vice chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and chairman of the Championship Organizing Committee, said that the turnout aligns with the federation’s vision to nurture the next generation of jiu-jitsu athletes.“The competitions we witnessed today proves the tournament in its 15th edition continues to consolidate its position as a unique platform and cement the values of jiu-jitsu represented by courage, patience, determination, will, persistence, and tolerance,” he said.
“Para-jiu-jitsu competitions continue to empower people of determination and provide an inclusive environment that helps them grow, develop, and achieve their goals,” Al-Dhaheri added.
British participant Justin Levene, a purple belt, expressed his happiness at winning a gold medal in the Para-jiu-jitsu Men/K4 Heavyweight division.
“The true victory is being part of this prestigious championship, despite many challenges,” he said. “Winning on the mat requires a lot of sacrifices and patience; essential lessons learned from this noble sport.”Several parents of young athletes taking part in the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Festival also shared their delight at seeing their children participate.
Amira Ali, mother of Dana Al-Hammadi, who competed in the Girls/Kids 3/Grey/25 kg B Division, praised the federation for its efforts to help young athletes.
“My daughter has benefited significantly from the federation’s programs, which strengthened her bond with sports and resulted in victory in today’s matches, earning a gold medal,” she said.
Meanwhile, The Fitness District has opened following its success at the 2022 edition and includes several exercise and cultural activities.
The opening ceremony of the championship will be held at the Mubadala Arena on Thursday afternoon and action will continue in the Junior, Teen and Youth (white belt) divisions.
