Latest news with #YouthWorldChampionship
Khaleej Times
19-07-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi to host Youth World Muay Thai Championship for first time in Middle East
For the first time in the Middle East, Abu Dhabi will host the 2025 IFMA Youth World Muay Thai Championship from September 10 to 20, 2025, at Space 42 Arena in Al Raha Beach, a landmark step that further solidifies the UAE's global standing in hosting world-class sporting events. The official announcement was made during a joint press event by the International Federation of Muay Thai Associations (IFMA) and the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, following the signing of the official hosting agreement at Space 42 Arena. The agreement was signed by Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, and Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi, Board Member of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation and Secretary-General of the Arab Muay Thai Federation. Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi, President of the Asian and Arab Muay Thai Federations and President of the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation, stated, "Abu Dhabi's hosting of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship reflects the prestigious standing the UAE has attained globally in organising major international sports events, thanks to the visionary leadership and boundless support of the wise leadership.' He affirmed that this global event is a continuation of the UAE's achievements across all fields, including sports, which enjoys generous support and exceptional care from the wise leadership of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court. Their roles have advanced the UAE's sporting journey to unprecedented international achievements. He added, "We continue to work under a clear strategy to establish Abu Dhabi as a global capital for combat sports and enhance the UAE's presence on the international sports map by hosting championships that meet the highest organizational and technical standards.' He concluded, "We are committed to delivering an exceptional edition of the Youth World Muay Thai Championship that honors the UAE's name and meets the aspirations of our wise leadership and the youth of the nation. Through this event, we also aim to expand the reach of Muay Thai across the Arab world, Asia, and globally from the UAE.' Stephen Fox, Secretary-General of IFMA, said, "I am honoured to be here in Abu Dhabi at Space 42 Arena, an exceptional sports venue, to finalize the agreement for the largest Youth World Muay Thai Championship in history. We have full confidence in the UAE Muay Thai and Kickboxing Federation to deliver an outstanding tournament. Abu Dhabi has continually set new benchmarks in hosting major events, and this will be no exception.' 'This championship is expected to attract over 100 national teams and 1,500 young athletes from various age groups. The trust placed in Abu Dhabi by the global Muay Thai community is a testament to the UAE's credibility, hospitality, and top-tier facilities. Families worldwide are confident in sending their children to this edition of the championship.' 'I extend heartfelt thanks to Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi for this historic opportunity to inspire the next generation of Muay Thai athletes. Hosting the event at Space 42 Arena, one of the finest venues globally, ensures the championship will meet the highest international standards.' 'We know that the event is strongly supported by the global Muay Thai community as well as UAE government institutions. We are proud of the successful and fruitful partnership with the UAE Federation, which has organized multiple world-class, continental, and regional events to the highest standard.' Tariq Mohammed Al Mehairi added, 'The UAE Federation has completed the hosting agreement with IFMA as part of its ongoing development strategies under the leadership of Abdullah Saeed Al Neyadi. We highly value the IFMA family's vote of confidence and the international trust placed in the UAE, which reflects the country's esteemed reputation and the Federation's proven organizational record in hosting acclaimed Asian and world championships.' 'The championship will be held at Space 42 Arena, a premier sports facility, and will welcome 1,500 athletes across all age groups. It is being organized in cooperation with IFMA to expand the sport's footprint in the Arab world.' 'We also thank Stephen Fox for attending the ceremony, and we wish all the participating teams success in the tournament, especially our national team. Preparations confirm that Abu Dhabi is ready to host this prestigious global event.'
The Citizen
17-07-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Bouwer sisters aim for international breakthrough in Climbing
Caitlin and Tiffany Bouwer, two sisters from Centurion, are making an international name for themselves with their achievements in the fast-growing sport of Climbing. The Bouwer Sisters have once again made Gauteng proud after being selected to compete in the World Cup competitions of the International Council for Competition Climbing (IFSC), which will take place this month in various cities in Europe. After earning their Protea colours in this sport for two consecutive years, the sisters travelled to China in August last year to participate in the Youth World Championship. The IFSC Youth World Championships is arguably the most prestigious event for youth athletes to take part in, while the tough World Cup series is probably the biggest test for any international climber. 'I'm incredibly excited and honoured to be representing South Africa at the IFSC World Cup in Madrid. Competing on the world stage is always an amazing experience, and I feel proud to wear the green and gold. This will be my third time representing my country, and after seven years in the sport, it still feels just as special. I can't wait to climb alongside the best in the world and keep pushing my limits,' said Caitlin Bouwer shortly before their departure for Europe. Her sister, Tiffany, also couldn't hide her excitement and especially talked about the competition in Finland. 'When I was younger, climbing internationally always seemed so far away. The first year I made the team I was so excited to see what would come. This is my third year competing for my country and nothing has changed. I can't wait to visit Finland and make SA proud,' she remarked. The Bouwer Sisters, who also coach younger climbers at the local Rock Valley Climbing Club in Hennops Park, Centurion, train six days a week at this indoor climbing facility under the expert guidance of their head coach and father, Tiaan Bouwer. 'I am extremely proud of the girls. Having qualified for three years in a row shows their dedication to their sport they love. It's a privilege to be both their dad and coach. The fact that they are counted among the best climbers from not only Gauteng, but South Africa, is really a proud moment for me,' the proud father concluded. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to [email protected] or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
29-06-2025
- Sport
- The Citizen
Johannesburg teen to represent SA at Youth World Climbing Championships in Finland
Roux Wentzel (14) from Helpmekaar Kollege in Johannesburg has recently been chosen to represent the South African Protea Climbing team at the International Federation of Sport Climbing Youth World Climbing Championships in July in Helsinki, Finland. The climber who began the sport two years ago said his latest accolade is a silver medal he received from last year's national championships, Rosebank Killarney Gazette reports. Roux explained the process of being selected: 'To be selected to compete at the Youth World Championships, you have to make the podium at the Youth World Championship selection event that was held in Johannesburg this year. 'For speed climbing specifically, you also have to make a cut-off time that depends on your category.' The climber said that because it would be his first year competing internationally, he did not have any goals in terms of how far he wanted to rank, but simply wanted to climb faster than he ever had and enjoy the experience.
Daily Tribune
01-06-2025
- Sport
- Daily Tribune
Royal Victory
TDT | Manama Bahrain's Royal Endurance Team, represented by the elite Victorious squad, made a strong statement on the European stage with a stunning double victory at the Florence International Endurance Race in France. Riding the wave of strategy, Salman Isa claimed first place in the open 120km race, while fellow rider Jaber Bader topped the youth category over the same demanding distance. Excellence in Europe His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the King's Representative for Humanitarian and Youth Affairs and leader of the Royal Endurance Team, praised the squad's performance. He highlighted how the team consistently strengthens its position in European endurance racing, thanks to a roster of skilled riders who have delivered multiple impressive results over recent years. 'The Royal Endurance Team continues to build on its distinguished reputation internationally,' Shaikh Nasser noted. 'With riders of this calibre, Bahrain's equestrian endurance is clearly making waves.' Preparing for Global Challenges This latest success fits neatly into a larger plan aimed at preparing Bahrain's riders and horses for upcoming global competitions, particularly the Youth World Championship scheduled for mid-September. Shaikh Nasser highlighted that the partnership between rider Salman Isa and his horse Filbert is a key part of scouting and nurturing horses with the potential to compete at the highest level. 'This victory is more than just a win — it's a vital step in our ongoing development program,' he said. 'It motivates the team ahead of a busy European racing calendar.' Rising Stars Salman Isa's win in the grueling 120km open race stood out amid a competitive field of European and Gulf riders, demonstrating composure and stamina. Meanwhile, young rider Jaber Badr's top finish in the youth and juniors category signals promising talent on Bahrain's horizon, poised to carry the nation's endurance legacy forward. More Races, More Glory With several European races on the horizon, Bahrain's Royal Endurance Team is riding momentum into what promises to be a pivotal season. Their commitment to strategic development signals a team not just competing, but setting the pace. For Bahrain, the Florence success is yet another proud chapter in a story of international ambition — all driven by the seamless bond between rider and horse.
Zawya
24-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
McDonald's UAE announces partnership with UAEFA
Set to kick off at the highly anticipated prestigious event, 2025 President's Cup Final on May 9, McDonald's UAE will be the official partner for the event as Sharjah's faces off against Shabab Al-Ahli Dubai, United Arab Emirates – McDonald's UAE is proud to announce a new partnership with the UAE Football Association (UAEFA), which will debut with McDonald's UAE as one of the Official Partners of the prestigious 2025 President's Cup Final, taking place on May 9 at 7:30 PM at Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium, where Sharjah will face Shabab Al-Ahli. This marks the beginning of a broader partnership, with more exciting details to be announced soon. This step reinforces McDonald's UAE's ongoing commitment to supporting sports and community development across the country. Walid Fakih, McDonald's UAE CEO commented, 'At McDonald's UAE, we believe in the power of sports to unite communities and inspire future generations - from grassroots programs to major national events. We're honored to be one of the partners with UAEFA and look forward to sharing more about our broader collaboration in the near future, while celebrating this exciting moment with fans across the country.' Mohammed Abdullah Hazzam Al Dhaheri, General Secretary of the UAE Football Association: 'We are pleased to have McDonald's UAE as one of our partners for the President's Cup. This partnership comes as we prepare to organize the final of the most prestigious tournament, eagerly anticipated by football fans both locally and abroad.' He added, 'We value all our partnerships with institutions and deeply appreciate the support of each one. Such collaborations provide vital backing for Emirati football.' For more information on the 2025 President's Cup Final, please visit: About UAEFA: The UAE Football Association was established in 1971 and became a member of FIFA in 1972, and joined the Asian and Arab confederations in 1974. The UAEFA made great achievements since its foundation at the Gulf, continental and international levels. The senior football national team made one World Cup appearance, in 1990 in Italy, won the Gulf Cup in 2007 and the Gulf Cup in 2013. The youth national team claimed the AFC U-19 Cup in 2008. The U-20 national team qualified for the Youth World Championship in 1997 in Malaysia and 2009 in Egypt. They also took part in the 2003 Youth World Championship as UAE were the host country. The U-17 national team qualified for the 1991 World Cup in Italy 1991 and Nigeria 2009. The juniors' national team won the Gulf Cup in 2006, 2009, 2010 and 2013, the youth and juniors national teams qualified for the AFC Asian Cups finals in 2010, Winning the 2nd Gulf U-23 championship in Doha 2010, in addition to the 7th Gulf Juniors Championship in Kuwait 2010 and claiming the 16th Asian Games silver medal in China for the first time in the history of the country. The Olympic national team made history by qualifying for the 2012 London Games and the women football national team claimed the West Asian Women Championship title twice in 2010 and 2011. About McDonald's UAE: Operating in the nation since 1994, McDonald's UAE caters to the local community across more than 200 restaurants, geographically located to service customers in many areas. McDonald's UAE is committed through its food trust promise, to maintaining the highest quality of products served at each restaurant, and across its McCafé offering. McDonald's UAE prides itself on being a local member of the community and has been committed to its role as a responsible corporate citizen since its arrival to the nation. Following an active social responsibility agenda, it is a long-standing partner of Emirates Red Crescent supporting its charitable and humanitarian further contribute to the wellbeing of the communities, creating wider environmental benefits, McDonald' s UAE and Emirates Environmental Group work in tandem to spread green values and bring to life sustainable initiatives, reducing the nation's carbon footprint. Driving this is the launch of its biodiesel initiative in July 2011, which sees 100% of McDonald's UAE's used cooking oil collected from restaurants and converted into 100% biodiesel, in turn powering the company's logistics fleet. As a result, the trucks have travelled over 23.6 million km on 100% Biodiesel since the partnership began, saving over 25 million kg CO2e emissions. For further information about McDonald's UAE please visit: or contact Weber Shandwick on McDonaldsuae@
