Today's Edition
The UAE MMA team made a strong start at the 2023 IMMAF Asian Championships, on Sunday, securing an impressive tally of 13 medals, including eight gold, four silver, and one bronze, on the opening day in Bahrain. The UAE topped the overall gold medal table, claiming eight out of 15 gold medals on offer.
The event, scheduled until December 16, commenced with competitions for the Youth B (14-15 years old) and Youth C (12-13 years old) categories on Sunday. Athletes from 16 countries are being hosted at the Khalifa Sports City Arena.
Saif Alblooshi set the pace for the team by claiming the top spot in the Men/Youth B/40 Kg division, achieving a compelling victory over Saud Ebrahim of Bahrain in a thrilling contest lasting 2 minutes and 43 seconds.
Additionally, Hamdan Mohamed Alnajar (Men/Youth B/48 Kg), Salem Alhamoud (Men/Youth B/77.1 Kg), Rakan Alyammahi (Youth/Men/Youth C/34 Kg), Ali Mohamed Alnajar (Youth/Men/Youth C/40 Kg), Thani Almehairi (Men/Youth B/62 Kg), Ghala Alhammadi (Women/Youth B/44 Kg), and Afra Almutwa (Women/Youth B/48 Kg) won gold for the UAE.
Abdulla Aldarmak (Men/Youth B/44 Kg), Yousef Alkhoori (Men/Youth B/67 Kg), Abdulla Andeez (Men/Youth B/62 Kg), and Zayed Al Hammadi (Men/Youth B/48 Kg) secured silver, while Mayed Alhosani grabbed bronze in the Men/Youth C/34 Kg division.
"Winning the gold medal today mean all the efforts I've put in are paid off," said Al Alblooshi. "It's a tremendous honor to represent the UAE on this platform. My relentless dedication and preparation have borne fruit. I want to dedicate this medal to the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and MMA Federation for their incredible support."
Ghala Alhammadi, who won gold in the Youth/Women/Youth B/44 Kg division, said: "I am so happy I could win the first place today. I want to dedicate this to the UAE's leadership. I'm pleased with the performance that allowed me to end the season on a good note."
