Abu dhabi: The opening day of the eighth and final round of the second edition of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship began today at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, with Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club securing the top position on the leaderboard.
According to Emirates News Agency, the day's events showcased high-level competition and attracted a lively crowd, with record participation from numerous male and female athletes representing clubs and academies from across the UAE. Al Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club concluded the day in second place, while M.O.D UAE secured third.
The competition on the opening day featured matches in the Under-18, Adults, and Masters divisions within the Gi category. The championship is set to conclude on Sunday, where the overall season champions will be crowned. The No-Gi competitions concluded in the previous round, with Sharjah Self-Defence Sports Club emerging as the titleholder.
Notable guests attending the opening day and honoring the winners included Dr. Salem Khalfan Al Kaabi, Mohammed Munif Al Mansoori, Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Yousef Abdullah Al Batran, Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Dr. Abdulla Hamad Al Ghfeli, Abdullah Mohammed Al Ketbi, Hadi Al Askari, Fahad Al Rais, and Ahmed Al Hosani.
Mohammed bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri remarked on the progress of jiu-jitsu in the UAE, emphasizing the skill, preparation, and dedication of the athletes, coaches, and clubs that have helped the championship evolve into a key platform for developing future champions.
Abdullah Mohammed Al Ketbi commented on the sport's growth in the UAE, highlighting the well-organized events and increasing participation, which contribute to positive impacts on physical fitness and mental well-being.
Mohammed Al Ketbi from Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club, who achieved gold in the Adults under-62 kg division, shared his experience of participating in every round of the championship. His achievements include six golds and two silvers, with focused training sessions that include mat work and strength conditioning.
The championship will continue tomorrow with competitions in the Under-14 and Under-16 categories, before concluding on Sunday with the Under-12 and Kids divisions.