Jiu-jitsu organisers in UAE want to reach new audiences with inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Open

Jose Mario Sperry, world renowned Brazilian martial art expert, will conduct a seminar for the coaches attached to the UAEJJF’s school programme on Thursday in Abu Dhabi, writes Amith Passela.

Jiu-jitsu is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UAE as the inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Open starts on Friday. Christopher Pike / The National
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The inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Open is the latest move by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation (UAEJJF) to capture new audiences and promote the sport throughout the country.

The two-day event begins Friday at the Police Officers Club in the Northern Emirates with the opening day for No Gi (without kimono) and the following day for Gi.

“To stage competitions at new venues and as a novel way to capture new audiences is a strategy to spread jiu-jitsu across all Emirates,” said Al Batran, a board member of UAEJJF.

“It also provides the competitors more opportunities to compete at different venues and different surroundings.

“The inaugural Dubai Open was a huge success and we are looking forward to another successful first staging of a competition in Ras Al Khaimah.

“We expect a high number and the cream of the country’s jiu-jitsu exponents to participate in this competition.”

The RAK Open is supported by the International Petroleum Investment Company and its managing director Khadem Al Qubaisi said: “Jiu-jitsu as a sport is playing a significant role in promoting a healthy lifestyle for our society.”

Meanwhile, Jose Mario Sperry, world renowned Brazilian martial art expert, will conduct a seminar for the coaches attached to the UAEJJF’s school programme on Thursday at the FGB Arena at the Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi.

The event is part of the development drive of Palms Sports’ week-long Professional Development Workshop conducted in coordination with the Abu Dhabi Educational Council and the UAEJJF.

apassela@thenational.ae

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