UAE Jiu-Jitsu Team Heads to Almaty for Asian Championships

Abu dhabi: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, has embarked on its journey to Almaty, Kazakhstan, to participate in the third Jiu-Jitsu Asian Youth Championship and the tenth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship. These prestigious events, set to take place at Almaty Arena, will feature Asia's top national teams competing from July 13 to 19. According to Emirates News Agency, the UAE National Team is entering the championships with a strong record on the continental stage. The team previously topped the Adults standings at the ninth edition in Amman, securing a total of 22 medals, which reinforces the UAE's status as a leading jiu-jitsu nation in Asia. The Asian Championship is a significant event for the UAE team due to its high technical standards and the caliber of competitors. It provides a platform to build on the UAE's past successes and further prepare its athletes for future international contests. The Adults squad features athletes like Omar Ali Alsuwaidi and Rashed M ohammed Alshehhi in the 56kg category, while the Under-21 squad includes talents such as Obaid Alketbi and Abdulrahman Sayedna. The team is set to compete across various weight divisions, showcasing a mix of experienced athletes and emerging talents. Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Technical Director of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, emphasized the Federation's commitment to strengthening the National Team's position in continental and international arenas. He highlighted the continuous support from the UAE's leadership, which has been crucial in developing a robust sporting system for Emirati athletes. National team coach Alan Nascimento noted that the technical staff's focus during preparations was on team cohesion and enhancing athletes' adaptability to the dynamic nature of jiu-jitsu matches. The team's strategy includes a balance of seasoned competitors and promising newcomers, aimed at achieving tactical versatility and competitive success. The UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation views the championship as a key compon ent of its long-term athlete development plan, aiming to prepare athletes for future international competitions while providing valuable experience to maintain the UAE's leading position in Asian and global jiu-jitsu.