Saif Alblooshi Secures Gold For UAE Jiu-Jitsu Team At Asian Youth Games, Raising Medal Tally To Seven

Saif Alblooshi clinched a gold medal for the UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team at the Asian Youth Games in Bahrain. Competing in the -48kg division, Alblooshi's victory added to the team's impressive tally. Aysha Aljneibi earned silver in the -63 kg category, while Hneen Alkhoori (-57 kg), Abdulaziz Alakidi (-69 kg), and Ghala Al Hammadi (-48 kg) each secured bronze medals.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team concluded their campaign with a total of seven medals: two gold, two silver, and three bronze. On the first day of jiu-jitsu competitions, Obaid Al Ketbi won gold in the -56kg division. Salem Alqubaisi also contributed with a silver in the -62kg category. The UAE topped the medal standings, surpassing the Republic of Korea and Kazakhstan.

Fahad Mohammed Salem Kardous Al Ameri, UAE Ambassador to Bahrain, attended the event. He met with athletes and staff, expressing pride in their achievements. He highlighted that their efforts embody the sporting values and national spirit of the UAE people.

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali, Director of the Technical Department at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, praised the team's results. He emphasised that these achievements reflect the leadership's vision and support for Emirati sports. "The impressive performances we’re seeing today highlight the rapid progress of jiu-jitsu in the UAE," he stated.

Gold medallist Saif Alblooshi shared his thoughts on competing at such a level. "Competing in a championship of this size gives us valuable experience against different styles and schools of jiu-jitsu," he said. "The atmosphere was highly competitive and full of energy."

Future Aspirations

Mubarak Saleh Al Menhali expressed confidence in future successes for UAE athletes. He noted that ongoing programmes by academies and clubs are nurturing talent effectively. "We are confident our athletes will continue to perform with commitment and determination," he added.

Alblooshi expressed gratitude towards the Federation for trusting him to represent his country. "I’m grateful to the Federation for the trust placed in us to represent the UAE," he said. "Today’s result motivates me to keep improving."

With inputs from WAM