UAE Clinches Eight Medals at Riyadh's Islamic Solidarity Games

Post by : Mara Rahim

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu National Team, backed by Mubadala Investment Company, concluded its participation in the 6th Islamic Solidarity Games held in Riyadh with a remarkable display of skill and determination. The team achieved a total of eight medals: four gold, two silver, and two bronze. Their formidable performance on the final day of events enabled them to top the medal standings in jiu-jitsu.

The closing day featured intense competition among top athletes from national teams across the region; however, the UAE competitors demonstrated their immense skill and extensive preparation. Khaled Al Shehhi initiated the medal tally by clinching gold in the 62kg weight class, followed closely by Shamma Al Kalbani, who achieved gold in the 63kg category. Asma Al Hosani added to the medal count with another gold in the 52kg division, while Mahdi Al Awlaqi showcased his abilities, securing a silver in the 77kg weight class.

The UAE team ultimately finished the Games in first place overall, outperforming Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia, who ranked second and third, respectively. Remarkably, every athlete from the UAE triumphed, showcasing their readiness and precision. This stellar performance underscores the diligent preparation of each team member and the robust support network surrounding them.

Team officials believe this achievement reflects the high standards of training programs and the exceptional collaboration between athletes and their coaches. Months dedicated to disciplined training and meticulous planning were pivotal in allowing the UAE to attain these prestigious medals.

Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation and prominent figure within international jiu-jitsu circles, commended the team's exceptional results. He stated that the prominence of UAE jiu-jitsu is gaining international recognition and credited the nation's leadership for establishing a robust foundation for the sport. He emphasized that accomplishments across events like the Asian Youth Games and the World Championship in Thailand, alongside their current success, exemplify the efficacy of the UAE team's cohesive efforts.

Alhashmi also pointed out the invaluable role of families, clubs, and the federation's partners in bolstering the athletes. Their unwavering discipline and dedication enable these competitors to represent the UAE with both pride and distinction. He recognized the contributions of technical, medical, and administrative staff, who work collaboratively to ensure athletes perform at their best.

Head Coach Helder Medeiros expressed his satisfaction with the team’s accomplishments, remarking that the results illustrate the athletes' significant progress in recent months. Their focus, endurance, and competitive tenacity were instrumental against formidable competitors. He noted the UAE team's growing prowess on both the continental and international stages, especially highlighted by their recent triumph at the JJIF World Championships in Thailand.

Gold medallist Khaled Al Shehhi emphasized the importance of teamwork in achieving collective success. He conveyed that his medal symbolizes not just individual effort, but the synergy of the entire team. In jiu-jitsu, collaboration is key to improvement, he noted. Entering the championship, he felt a great responsibility to represent the UAE and showcase the dedication of the team. The results reflect their unity and inspire them for future competitions.

The UAE team’s stellar performance at the Islamic Solidarity Games reinforces their burgeoning reputation in the sport. With eight medals, robust teamwork, and notable enhancement in capability, they have set a commendable precedent for upcoming competitions and solidified their standing in the region.