Abu dhabi: Round 4 of the third edition of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship (Gi) continued today at Mubadala Arena in Abu Dhabi with competitions in the Under-14 and Under-16 categories. The event attracted strong participation from clubs and academies across the UAE, with Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club maintaining its lead in the overall standings. Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Club sits in second place, while Al Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club is third.
According to Emirates News Agency, the championship serves as a key platform for developing young talent and preparing future champions. It showcases the strength of the UAE's jiu-jitsu development system by providing young athletes with regular opportunities to compete and measure their progress throughout the season. The event also highlights the UAE's high standards in sports event organisation and refereeing, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as the world capital of jiu-jitsu.
The competitions were attended by Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation; Humaid Mohammed Al Ketbi, Board Member of the Federation; and Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Federation, alongside federation officials, representatives of clubs and academies, partners, and a large number of family members supporting the athletes from the stands.
Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri remarked that the Under-14 and Under-16 categories provide a clear indication of the future of jiu-jitsu in the UAE. He noted that the performances of athletes at this stage reflect the quality of work being carried out by clubs and academies to identify and develop talent through structured and sustainable training programmes. Al Dhaheri highlighted that the championship not only provides competition opportunities but also helps build character by promoting values such as discipline, respect, and sportsmanship.
Matheus Souza, father of Maria Clara Souza, who won gold in the under-14 57 kg division, expressed his pride in his daughter's achievement. He noted that Maria, who has been practising jiu-jitsu for two years, secured her first gold medal after previously winning silver and bronze. He emphasized that the championship provides an important experience for young athletes, helping them build confidence and gain experience in a competitive environment.
Round 4 concludes tomorrow with competitions in the Under-12 and Kids divisions. Strong participation and family support are expected to continue alongside the Supporting Family Award initiative launched by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation as part of the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards, recognising the important role families play in supporting athletes throughout their sporting journeys.