ABU DHABI 22 April 2019: The future of adult women’s jiu-jitsu in the UAE and beyond is in safe hands following a thrilling day of action at the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship- the dedicated competition for local and international youth at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2019 (ADWPJJC).
Say two of the ADWPJJC 2019 saw hundreds of girls aged 10-17, contest 73 age, weight and belt categories at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi – the global home of jiu-jitsu.
The UAE won the girls’ contest by claiming a huge 54,320 points, which included 17 gold, 29 silver and 59 bronze medals. Twenty-two victories by female youths from Ukraine ensured the country finished second on 2,160 points with two gold, two silver and one bronze medal.
Australia finished third on 2,080 points with 15 wins resulting in one gold, two silver and three bronze medals.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi Crown Prince of Fujairah, awarded medals to several winners, one of which was Nouf Khamis Al Balooshi, who won gold in the 63kg category for orange green belt Teens.
Al Balooshi’s medal was one of many as the UAE’s female youths produced powerful displays evoking the values of jiu-jitsu: tolerance, discipline, respect and determination. Amongst those demonstrating girl power was Shaikha Al Tamimi, 12 years, from Al Samha School, who took gold in the Junior, yellow belt, 75kg category.
“Winning the first place and the gold medal makes me feel like I was climbing a big mountain and I reached the top today, that was one of my ambitions. I did not expect to win and I’m so happy to get a gold medal I think my family will also be proud of me,” said Al Tamimi.
Hamdah Alkalbani, representing Abu Dhabi’s Al Wahda Club – Jiu-Jitsu Academy, was another Emirati youth to savour ultimate glory: “I am very happy to win first place and the gold medal,” said Alkalbani, 13 years. “I did not expect to win, but I have been training twice a day to be ready for this championship. I love Jiu-Jitsu so much, it teaches us persistence and respect – I encourage girls to join in this sport. I’d also like to thank my family who have been the biggest supporter for me.”
Boys Contests
Following the girls’ competition, the second day of the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship will see boys aged 10-17, holding grey, yellow, orange, green and blue belts compete in Infant, Junior, Teen and Juvenile categories. Action starts from 11am at the Mubadala Arena.
