Astana, Kazakhstan witnessed the remarkable success of the UAE National Jiu-Jitsu Team, sponsored by Mubadala Investment Company, at the JJIF World Championship YOUTH 2023. The team secured an impressive 15 medals on Wednesday in the girls’ Under-16 and Under-18 divisions, bringing the overall medal tally to a commendable 23.
In the Under-18 division, defending champions Zamzam Alhammadi, Rauda Alshamsi, and Alanood Alharbi clinched gold, underlining their exceptional prowess. The Under-16 division debut was equally noteworthy, with the team securing six medals— one silver and five bronze. Silver was claimed by Haira Aldaheri (36kg), while bronze medals were earned by Fatema Alkatheeri (44kg), Ghala Alhammadi (44kg), Najla Hashem (48kg), Hneen Alkhoori (57kg), and Aysha Aljneibi (63kg).
The Under-18 girls achieved history yet again, amassing nine medals, including three golds, two silvers, and four bronzes. Gold medals were awarded to Rauda Alshamsi (40kg), Alanood Alharbi (44kg), and Zamzam Al Hammadi (52kg). Notably, Al Hammadi had previously secured gold at the IMMAF Youth World Championships in Abu Dhabi.
UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation Deputy Chairman, Mohamed Salem Al Dhaheri, and Head of the National Team’s delegation to Kazakhstan, commended the girls’ exceptional performance. He stated, “The performance of the girls under 18 and under 16 today was amazing. They won an impressive 15 medals. This shows how much our athletes have improved and it’s something the whole world can see.”
Acknowledging the strategic support behind the accomplishment, Al Dhaheri added, “The reason our UAE girls rocked the JJIF World Championship YOUTH is because of the well-thought-out strategy and plan by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation. Our visionary leaders as well as the Federation officials spare no chance in supporting our athletes, especially the girls, so they can showcase their skills globally, just like they did today.”
The Uzbekistan Jiu-Jitsu Federation recognized the UAE’s significant contributions to promoting jiu-jitsu and its continuous development in the region and the world by presenting an honorary shield to the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation.
Head Coach of the UAE National Team, Ramon Lemos, expressed his pride in the team’s exceptional performance, attributing their success to hard work, dedication, and a collective effort. He commented, “Their victory is a testament to their commitment and the collective effort they have put in. It’s heartening to see their efforts culminate in this success.”
Reflecting on her achievement, Rauda Alshamsi, gold medalist in the 40kg category, said, “I still can’t believe that I am a world champion now. This medal is like a dream come true for me.” Alanood Alharbi, who secured gold in the 44kg category, shared her pride in representing her nation, stating, “Standing on the podium and listening to the UAE national anthem being played in the background, nothing makes me prouder than this.”
Zamzam Alhammadi, the world champion in the 52kg category, expressed her delight, stating, “This medal reminds me of all the practice and teamwork that got me here. My coaches and supporters are awesome. This is just the beginning of more exciting things, I think. There’s no resting. I am now more motivated to train hard, push beyond boundaries, and make the UAE proud.”
The team’s achievements are a testament to the UAE’s dedication to nurturing talent, promoting sportsmanship, and achieving excellence on the global stage.
