Abu Dhabi: The UAE Wrestling and Judo Federation's arena in Abu Dhabi was aglow with budding talents as children five years and above displayed their skill in martial arts.
Al Khulood Club emerged overall champions with a near-sweep in the 15th UAE Open Junior Karate Riyu-Jitsu championship here last Friday.
Al Khulood Club won 19 gold, 13 silver and 12 bronze medals as more than 100 youngsters, representing over 15 nationalities, took part in the competition.
Mohammad Waleed Al Merri proved to be a chip of the old block when he emerged Youth Champion. His father, Waleed Hassan Al Merri, is a champion in Riyu-Jitsu and the brain behind this annual event. Young Mohammad proved he was on the same track.
Abundant skill
The 9th Grade student displayed abundant skill as he subdued a more senior Mohammad Murtada in the final which was the feature event.
The Barijje Health Club members won two gold, five sliver and two bronze medals to finish second-best behind Al Khulood, while Winner Sports Centre (two gold, one silver and five bronze) was third.
Competitors from Focus Karate and Kung Fu Centre also impressed with three silver and six bronze medals, while Emirates Sports Centre won two silver and three bronze medals.
The annual event was held under the patronage of Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Shaikh Mohammad Bin Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan distributed the medals, along with Yahya Diab, Consul of Syria.
The Syrians dominated by securing 12 gold, 6 silver and 2 bronze medals, followed by the Lebanese (six gold, one silver and two bronze) and Indians (five gold, four silver and eight bronze).
The event was supported by Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank and Al Fahim Group.
