Al Jazira club top medal table on Day 2

Gulf Today, Sports Reporter

Al Jazira Jiu-Jitsu Club secured the top position on the medal table on the second day of the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Mubadala Arena, part of the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

Commando Group claimed second place, followed by the Kazakhstan national team in third.

Athletes from leading international clubs and academies showcased their skills, highlighting the championship’s crucial role in advancing jiu-jitsu globally, discovering new talent, and providing a professional platform for young athletes to excel.

The event drew notable figures, including Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohamed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Abdullah Naser Al Junaibi, Chairman of the UAE’s Pro League Committee; Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, Vice Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Maryam Musallam Al Mazrouei, Director of the Community Service Department at the Family Development Foundation; Mohammed Bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Board Member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation; Aysha Saif Mohammed Al Mansouri, Director of Abu Dhabi Autism Centre; and Fahad Al Shamsi, Secretary General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation.

Dhaheri remarked: “Today, we witnessed future champions deliver outstanding performances characterized by skill, enthusiasm, and professionalism. The high level of these youth athletes reflects their dedication and passion for the sport. We take pride in Abu Dhabi’s role as a global hub where athletes can showcase their talents and take significant steps in their careers.” Dhaheri also commended the young athletes from the UAE who secured multiple medals, adding: “This generation has the potential to achieve remarkable success on the international stage. It is inspiring to see their talent and determination, proving they are on the right path to success.”

“The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship serves as an ideal platform for supporting young athletes, helping them reach their goals and gaining invaluable experience for future achievements.”

Junaibi said: “The 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship is a proud milestone, bringing together champions from across the globe to Abu Dhabi, the world’s jiu-jitsu capital. This event showcases the strong support of our leadership and the dedication to propelling the sport to new international heights.”

Aysha, Director of Abu Dhabi Autism Centre, expressed her thoughts: “It is a pleasure to be present at this extraordinary championship that encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to participate in sports and compete in a positive environment. The Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship promotes key values such as cooperation, perseverance, and courage.”

Jiu-Jitsu Transformed a Brazilian Athlete’s Journey: Guilherme Ribeiro, a young athlete from Cohab Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club, competed at the Abu Dhabi World Youth Jiu-Jitsu Championship, part of the ongoing Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, held at Mubadala Arena. His journey is a powerful testament to how jiu-jitsu can foster resilience, discipline, and personal growth, transforming lives in profound ways.

At 15 years old, Ribeiro competed in the Boys GI, Teen, Green, 84kg category, showcasing his remarkable journey from struggle to success. “I have been an athlete since 2017. Today, I’m a green belt, and I love what I do,” he shared.

Ribeiro recounted a challenging period in 2018 when anxiety prevented him from competing. This setback kept him away from the sport and made him question whether he would ever return.

Ribeiro credited his parents for their unwavering support. “My parents never gave up on me, and after nearly a year, I returned to the mats and started competing in local championships,” he explained.