Few years back, the UAE took to heart the sport of jiu-jitsu and today lead the world in it. Now the global capital of jiu-jitsu, Abu Dhabi is home to the Jiu-jitsu Asian Union. The growth of jiu-jitsu in the country was all because of the support and guidance from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Force, who changed the way the sport used to be seen and followed in the country.

The sport is all about how an athlete, a smaller and seemingly weaker one, but with right technique and strategy can floor a stronger opponent. In many ways, the UAE as a country could easily relate with the character of the sport.

The sport was promoted across the country and you have tournaments held under the banner of Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Al Ain, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and the like. On the grass root level, you have Al Jazira Club, Al Ain Club, Al Wahda Club, Ajman Club and Emirates Club among others actively pursuing and pushing the sport to newer territories.

And thus, jiu-jitsu as a sport grew stronger throughout the UAE.

With international tournaments Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship and Abu Dhabi Grand Slam, the UAE stamped its mark on the world.

According to UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation CEO Fahad Al Shamsi, the focus in the new season is on the national teams and discovering new talents. And last month saw the UAE jiu-jutsu-kas - men and women - winning in tournaments home and abroad.

The national team made a big statement as it returned home with 15 medals to clinch the championship at the fifth Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games held in Turkmenistan's capital of Ashgabat.

According to the UAE captain Faisal Al Ketbi the emirati jiu-jutsu-kas realise that they carry the country's hopes and aspiration.

"I would like to thank our wise leadership for their continuous support and for encouraging jiu-jitsu at all levels, for enabling us to reach this remarkable position."

On participating in international tournaments, Ketbi, who won gold medal at Ashgabat, said: "It is an opportunity for us to repay our homeland and our great leadership, as well as our beloved national federation."

Khalfan Balhol, who won a silver medal, said participating in such tournaments help to prepare for bigger championships.

"I'd like to dedicate this success to our wise leadership and the people of the UAE. In 2017, I've participated in three championships, and managed to win a gold at the Thailand Beach Championship, a silver medal at the Asia Championship in Vietnam and finally a silver medal here at the Asian Indoor Championship, and going forward I am determined to secure further successes for my country and prepare myself for the big championships that are coming up."

Abu Dhabi Sports Council secretary general Aref Al Awani had said the athletes have raised country's name high on the world sports arena.

"Our champions came home with international medals, and to start with participation was our goal," he said.

Al Awani said the achievements will enhance the UAE's position as the world's capital of jiu-jitsu.

Source: Khaleej Times