UAE Jiu-Jitsu team claims 7 medals at World Championship in Greece

HERAKLION, 28 October (BelTA - Emirates News Agency) - The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, claimed seven medals on day two of the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship in Heraklion, Greece, bringing home two gold, three silver, and two bronze.

The team racked up an impressive medal count, with Omar Al Suwaidi (56 kg) and Khaled Al Shehhi (62 kg) capturing gold, Balqees Abdul Karim (45 kg), Zayed Alkatheeri (56 kg), and Mohammed Al Suwaidi (69 kg) taking silver, while Aysha Al Shamsi (45 kg) and Maitha Shraim (48 kg) secured bronze, further boosting the UAE’s medal tally.

Fahad Ali Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the support provided by the UAE's wise leadership, noting that it has been crucial in preparing the national team and strengthening its leading position on the world stage.

Al Shamsi commended the achievements of both male and female athletes, emphasising that their success in winning multiple medals boosts the team’s chances of retaining the title. He also mentioned that their performance reflects the Federation’s strategy for discovering and nurturing champions according to top international standards.

“What our sons and daughters have achieved today clearly reflects the success of the intensive preparation phase and training camps that were crucial in honing the team members’ skills and enhancing their mental and physical abilities,” Al Shamsi added.

Omar Al Suwaidi, the gold medalist in the 56 kg category, who competed in an all-Emirati final against Zayed Al Katheeri, said: “I dedicate this achievement to the UAE leadership, the people, and the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. I also thank everyone who has supported us on this journey.”

He added, “This success is the result of months of hard work and preparation. I am grateful to the Federation, the technical staff, and everyone who helped us reach this level. We are focused on winning more medals and titles.”

Khaled Al Shehhi, the 62 kg gold winner, added, “Achieving this accomplishment brings indescribable happiness. I’ve worked hard, especially during the training camp. I am proud to raise the UAE flag on the podium and hear our national anthem—these are priceless moments of pride.”

Competitions continue today with the men’s 77 kg and 85 kg categories and the women’s 57 kg and 63 kg categories. Representing the national team will be Mahdi Al Awlaqi and Sultan Al Hosni (77 kg), Saeed Al Kubaisi (85 kg), Shamsa Al Amri and Al Anoud Al Hosni (57 kg), and Shamaa Al Kalbani (63 kg).