Abu Dhabi: Around 180 competitors from 27 countries are vying for honours in the Abu Dhabi Open Riyu-Jitsu Karate championship, which began at the UAE Wrestling and Judo Federation arena on Saturday.
Commenting on the event, Kancho Walid Hassan Marie, President of the World Riyu-Jitsu Karatedo Association, said: "This event is being held under the patronage of Her Highness Shaikha Fatima Bint Mubarak, Chairperson of the General Women's Union and is being organised by Khulood Club. The theme of the championship is 'Together to build and guide our children's potentials'," said Marie, who is a well-known figure in the UAE's martial arts circuit.
"The response to the championship has been overwhelming and this year the number of 180 is much better than last year's 120. There has been a marked improvement in the number of youngsters taking to such sport, thanks to the efforts of the UAE Wrestling and Judo Federation headed by Mohammad Bin Thaloob," Marie said.
The event is sponsored by Adel Ali Abu Haliqa, United Technical Services, Liwa Residence, Royal Le Meridien and several other establishments.
Three categories will be open to those over 19 years while most of the other categories will cater to different age groups between five years to 18 years, according to the organisers.
While UAE nationals will be strongly represented, several competitors have come in from Jordan, Tunisia, Algeria, Sudan, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, Libya, Egypt, Mauritania, Yemen, Iran, Ethiopia, India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Africa, Senegal Canada, Australia, Germany, Hungary, the Philippines, and the US.
The championship is taking place at the UAE Wrestling and Judo Federation arena located inside the Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club. Entrance is free.
