Going Out: Family fun at World Jiu-Jitsu Championship

Denzil Pinto 06:30 23/04/2015
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  • Head down to watch some of the world’s best jiu-jitsu fighters in action at the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship this weekend and you could walk home with some attractive electronic prizes.

    From Thursday (09:00) until Saturday at the IPIC Arena at Zayed Sports City, you will be able to witness some thrilling bouts at the free-admission event.

    The World Jiu Jitsu Children’s Cup, which ended yesterday attracted over 500 spectators as the UAE took a rich haul of medals.

    And in the adult competition, now in its seventh edition, organisers expect an even higher number for their premier tournament of the year.

    Headlining the strong field in the capital, are defending black belt open champions Marcus Almeida and Gabrielle Garcia.

    Almeida has a rich history in the competition and will be aiming for his third straight gold in the capital, while fellow Brazilian Garcia will be eyeing her fifth consecutive triumph.

    You can also see how UAE’s top-ranked jiu-jitsu fighter Faisal Al Ketbi fares in his competition debut in the black belt division. The Emirati has enjoyed success in the previous editions, winning gold as a brown belt last year, and will be looking to secure a medal in front of his home fans.

    Besides the action, the Fan Zone is one you will not want to miss with a range of activities to entertain all, whether you are dedicated fans or completely new to the sport.

    Children have an opportunity to take a picture with Azzam, the official mascot, as well as having their hands painted.

    And if you’ve always wanted to know what it feels like to drive an F1 car on the famous Yas Marina Circuit, then try out a simulator, where you can get behind the wheel and tackle the 21 turns on the 5.554km circuit.

    Other activities that will keep you busy are the air rifle simulators, jiu-jitsu and boxing demonstrations, and a inflatable surfboard rodeo.

    Already this week, iPods and mobile phones have been won and you can try your luck in the free daily raffle.

    Also two lucky winners will be driving home with a Land Rover Discovery or a Jaguar XF at the end of the competition.

    “I would also like to encourage all fans and families to passionately support our UAE fighting heroes as they go into battle over the three days of competition,” said Abdulmunem Al Hashemi, chairman of the UAE Jiu Jitsu Federation.

    “I have a lot of confidence it will be a successful Championship after their great efforts in advanced training. All in all it’s a competition which is not to be missed.”

    VENUE: IPIC Arena, Zayed Sports City, Abu Dhabi
    WHAT: World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship
    WHEN: Thursday-Saturday
    Sport360 VERDICT: It’s the world’s biggest and best Jiu-Jitsu Championship and one of the UAE’s best organised and events. It’s well worth checking out, and there’s plenty of extra entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
    CONTACT: www.uaejjf.org

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