ABU DHABI: The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team have made an outstanding start at the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union Regional Championship West Asia in Jordan, clinching 15 medals on the opening day, including six gold, four silver, and five bronze.

Shining for the team on Thursday were gold medalists Faisal Al-Wahdi (69 kg), Ammar Al-Hammadi (56 kg), Hamdan AlDhahri (56 kg), Khalfan Al-Zeedi (77 kg), Harib Al-Hammadi (62 kg), and Ahmad Andeez (69 kg).

Salem Al-Qubaisi (56 kg), Ahmed Al-Hosani (52 kg), Saif Al-Ameri (85 kg), and Rashed Aldhaheri (62 kg) earned silver medals. The bronze medalists are Ahmed Loobari (+77 kg), Ghanem Al-Ali (52 kg), Hazza Al-Kaabi (56 kg), Omar Awda (77 kg), and Saeed Alblooshi (77 kg).

Mubarak Al-Menhali, technical director at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the team. “We have always had confidence in our champions’ capabilities because they consistently show the highest levels of passion and commitment.

“They give their all in training and strive for excellence in every competition. Our goal for this championship was to secure the maximum number of medals, and our athletes rose to the challenge with confidence and strength,” he said.

Al-Menhali added: “We remain committed to supporting our athletes, especially in the youth categories, by providing training opportunities and participation in various championships to enhance their skills and experience.”

Al-Wahdi, who won gold in the under-21, 69 kg weight category, said: “Winning gold at this major championship is a significant achievement. This success is the result of thorough preparation, strong support from our leadership, and the efforts of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and coaching team.”

“We dedicated many hours to physical and technical training, and this victory is a testament to our collective effort,” he said. “I look forward to achieving even more in the future.”

Al-Hammadi, gold medal winner in the under-18, 56 kg weight category, said this reflects the result of hard work and support. “Our dedication in every training session has paid off. This victory motivates us to continue working hard and aim for further success in upcoming competitions.”