Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Fujairah Martial Arts Club collectively came on top at the inaugural Union Wrestling Cup, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, at Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Arena on Thursday.
The first-of-its-kind event, showcasing the traditional Emirati style of Mutaraha, along with the freestyle category witness two days of intense competition. It attracted 272 athletes from six different clubs competing across categories. The Mutaraha competitions attracted 52 players, in the under-75 kilogrammes, under 85kg, and the open weight (over 85kg) categories.
His Excellency Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the UAE Wrestling Federation, crowned the winners after the conclusion of the competitions. The second day of competitions was also graced by the presence of distinguished personalities, including Dr. Ahmed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Office; H.E. Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, the Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi; H.E. Sheikh Hamdan bin Saeed Al Nahyan, Secretary-General of the UAE Wrestling Federation; and Nenad Lalovic, the President of United World Wrestling.
The competitions for the freestyle wrestling Under-17 division and open weight (above 85) in Mutaraha were held on the second day, which was marked by fierce competition. Behind the winners from Fujairah, Sharjah Self Defense Sports Club finished a close second and Khorfakkan Club secured the third position.
In the Mutaraha competition, Abdullah Al Hashemi claimed the first-place title, displaying exceptional prowess, while Mohammed Al Haj secured the second position, and Faisal Al Shehhi earned the third spot.
H.E. Talal Al Hashemi, a board member of the UAE Wrestling Federation, said: “The Union Wrestling Cup witnessed wonderful technical proficiency and high levels of participation from independent athletes, private clubs, and government clubs. This marks a significant qualitative shift in the sport of wrestling in the near future. Notably, this accomplishment aligns with the Federation’s strategy aimed at reshaping the landscape of wrestling in the country.
“We intend to promote the sport in schools and clubs, anticipating the emergence of Emirati champions who will soon represent the UAE in regional and international tournaments, ultimately aiming for the Olympics. We extend our best wishes to all participants and eagerly anticipate their future success. We also look forward to their involvement in other tournaments organised by the UAE Wrestling Federation.”
Sultan Khameis of Fujairah Club, who won gold in the Under-110kg division, said: “I am delighted with this victory, achieved through rigorous training and tremendous efforts from myself, the coaches, and the club staff.”
