Latest news with #KhaledBinMohamedChampionship
Khaleej Times
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Baniyas dominates medals table as little warriors capture hearts in Abu Dhabi
While Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club walked away with the team title, it was the young fighters, some barely tall enough to see over the scoring table, who stole the spotlight on the final day of Round 4 of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship at Mubadala Arena. Dozens of athletes in the Kids and Under-12 Gi divisions battled it out with skill and heart that belied their age, as a crowd of proud parents and passionate fans cheered from the packed gallery. From flying armbars to last-second escapes, the day was filled with the kind of drama that reminded everyone why jiu-jitsu has become one of the UAE's fastest-growing sports. Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club secured the top team spot, with Al Jazira and Al Ain Jiu-Jitsu Clubs rounding out the podium. But beyond rankings, Sunday was a celebration of the sport's bright future. Environment for Champions Among the dignitaries in attendance were prominent figures from across government and sport, including Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed bin Butti Al Hamed, Chairman of the UAE Media Council, and Abdulmunem Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, among many others. Mohamed Humaid Hamad Dalmouj Aldhaheri, a Board Member of the UAEJJF, praised the event's mission. 'Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship reflects the wise leadership's vision of empowering individuals, nurturing future generations, and strengthening community bonds through sport," Aldhaheri, said. "The leadership's continued support, including the directive of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed to double the prize pool, inspires the entire jiu-jitsu community.' His words were echoed by Maisara Mahmoud Eid, who highlighted the broader impact. 'This is a real example of how sport builds character, discipline, and a sense of purpose, all supported by visionary leadership that believes in developing people as the nation's greatest asset," Maisara said. More Than Just Medals The emotional core of the day came from the stories off the mat. Hamad Nasseeb Al Ahbabi, father of standout competitor Matar Al Ahbabi,,said: 'Anyone who's seen my son's progress in jiu-jitsu understands how much this sport can transform young lives… The generous prize initiative from His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed is a clear sign of how much the leadership cares about motivating and supporting the nation's youth.' Diana Nurislamova from Russia, whose son Danis competed in the under-12s, praised the experience: 'Danis gained far more than just technique. He has learnt patience, teamwork, and respect. "We are truly thankful for the UAE's vision and the way it supports young athletes from all nationalities.' As the mats were rolled up and medals awarded, it was clear the real winners were the young competitors whose journeys were just beginning. With Round 4 now concluded, all eyes turn to August, when the championship resumes its mission of nurturing the next generation of heroes, one fight at a time.
Arab News
28-06-2025
- Sport
- Arab News
Baniyas impress on opening day of Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship
ABU DHABI: Baniyas Jiu-Jitsu Club seized an early lead on the first day of the fourth round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship, which was held on Friday at Zayed Sports City's Mubadala Arena. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation-organized event drew strong competition from local clubs, with competitors across youth, adult, and master divisions. Al-Jazira claimed second place, while MOD UAE rounded out the top three. Yousef Abdullah Al-Batran, board member of the UAEJJF, praised the generosity of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the crown prince of Abu Dhabi and chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, in doubling the championship's prize money. He said the move reflected the UAE leadership's commitment to the development of top-level sports, especially jiu-jitsu, which has become the country's national sport. Al-Batran said: 'The fourth round of the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship is especially important. It marks a key moment in the competition and gives us a chance to evaluate club performances and how well the athletes are prepared to continue their success in the upcoming stages.' Jasem Al-Marzooqi, the CEO of the Advanced Military Maintenance Repair and Overhaul Center, who was attending the event, affirmed that the strong organization of the event reflected the UAE's ambition to position itself as a leading global sports destination. He said: 'The championship is progressing with every round. Both the technical and organizational levels show how successful the overall system is, giving athletes the ideal environment to grow and excel.' Igor Lacerda, the coach of the Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club's youth team, said: 'This round once again confirms the incredible progress the Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Jiu-Jitsu Championship is making across the board. It gave us as coaches extra motivation. 'We focused our preparations on the mental and tactical aspects, and we are working to make the best use of our athletes' capabilities. From the start of the season our goal has been clear: to strongly compete for the title. We believe this path requires consistent performance and discipline.' Bouchaib El-Idrissi of Morocco, who was representing Baniyas, took gold in the men's masters' brown/black belt 62 kg division, and said: 'This achievement means a lot to me, especially since I faced an opponent in the final who was 20 years younger. 'This championship is a unique platform for athletes of all ages to showcase their talent and chase their goals. I sincerely thank the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and the organizers for the tremendous effort they put into delivering such a professional event and creating a competitive environment that matches our ambitions and pushes us to give our best.'
