Fujairah: The second round of the third edition of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship (Gi) continued today, Saturday, at Zayed Sports Complex in Fujairah, with competitions held in the Under-14 and Under-16 categories for boys and girls.
According to Emirates News Agency, the second day featured a high level of competition, with athletes showing control during matches and solid execution of fundamentals. The performances reflected the quality of training programmes followed by clubs and academies in developing athletes from an early stage and building a strong base for long-term progress.
The competitions were attended by a host of dignitaries including Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Saeed Abdullah Amer Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Fujairah Federal Court; Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Mohammed Hussein Al Marzooqi and Humaid Mohammed Bekheit Al Ketbi, Board Members of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Mohammed Abdullah Al Dhanhani, Branch Manager of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB); and Abdullah Salem Al Zaabi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communication at the Federation.
Mohammed Hussein Al Marzooqi, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, stated that the championship plays an important role in developing a new generation of athletes, supported by a clear long-term vision for the sport in the UAE. He highlighted the investment in the future, focusing not only on results but also on values such as commitment, discipline, and competitive spirit. He also emphasized the increased presence of families in the stands, noting that family support plays a key role in helping athletes continue performing well and improve.
Mona Al Mansoori, mother of Fatima Khaled Al Mansoori from Baniyas Club, shared insights on the family’s involvement, stating that they are part of their children’s journey in this sport. She mentioned the ‘Supporting Family Award’ which recognizes the role of families and encourages them to be more involved.
In the Under-14 category, Shaikhan Saif from Al Wasl Jiu-Jitsu Club won gold in the 34kg division. Saif expressed that the competition was strong and intense, requiring a high level of focus and understanding of each opponent. He credited his family’s support for his success and highlighted the championship as an opportunity to test and improve skills.
The podium ceremonies on day two saw strong family presence, with families sharing moments of achievement with their children, showing their close involvement in their sporting journey and their support throughout the season.
The second round will conclude tomorrow with competitions in the Kids and Under 12 divisions, continuing a competitive event that reflects the growth of jiu-jitsu in the UAE and its expanding community base.