Abu Dhabi: Brazilian Jiddu Lemos got the better of compatriot and defending champion Paulo Pinto 2-0 in the No Gi (without the traditional kimono) to clinch the top honours in the black belt 108-kilogram Masters-1 at the Zayed Ramadan Tournament at the Armed Forces Officers Club on Saturday.
With this result, Lemos extended his win tally over his opponent Pinto and World No 13 to 2-1 in the No Gi category but in the Gi class, the duo are tied 1-1.
“When you have the passion to work and compete, you can find time. I believe, we as teachers need to lead our pupils by example. I take a lot of pride when competing and whatever success achieved for me is respect earned from the kids we train,” said a jubilant Lemos, who is also a jiu-jitsu instructor at the Al Taawun School in Abu Dhabi for the last six years.
“It’s always a touch-and-go contest between me and Paulo. We are good friends off the mat and enjoy the competition between us whenever we cross paths. I was the luckier one this time,” Lemos added.
UAE national team players Humaid Al Kaabi and Khalifa Nassrati Al Beloushi won the top honours in the 75kg and 67kg contests, respectively.
“I just love to take part in competitions, be it every week or every month, as long as I’m healthy. The UAE is now well established as a jiu-jitsu nation and for staging high-level competitions. It is there for everyone to see,” said a delighted Al Kaabi.
“This Ramadan competition, for instance, had more foreign and expatriate participants than the Emiratis. The bar is raised at every competition, and for sure, it has improved our own levels as well,” added the 18-year-old.
The Brazilians made a clean sweep in the black belt divisions claiming six golds that were up for grabs over the two days.
