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Khaleej Times Online
Big field for Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Cup
By Our Sports Reporter

2 May 2007



ABU DHABI — The second Abu Dhabi International Jiu-Jitsu Cup is set to draw double the number of entries than last year’s inaugural event, according to event organiser and head coach of the UAE national team Carlos Santos.


The two-day championship, under the patronage of Shaikh Zayed bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is set to draw over 150 entries vying for a slice of the $20,000 purse in nine different weight categories including the absolute class.

Santos, a three times former world champion, said, “Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has made its base in Abu Dhabi and has fast spread across the region. Jiu-Jitsu has been present in the region as a recreational sport for a long time but lack of competition had stalled its growth.

“This championship has already received more than 150 entries, which is double the number of last year’s competition. The majority of the entries is from the UAE and includes more than 50 nationals.

“There are quite a number of expatriates and entries from the region and for the first time two top class fighters arrive from Brazil. Saudi Arabia top the foreign contingent with 12 entries.”

“It’s not only the numbers but the quality of the competition, which would be of very high standard. There’ll be a couple of events for beginners added in this championship as part of the development programme.”

Santos arrived in the UAE four years ago to set a base for the sport and later he was appointed as the regional promoter for the world’s governing body for the sport. “We started in Abu Dhabi with a handful of students and now have set-up training centres in Dubai and Al Ain. The numbers have grown beyond 150 and is still growing,” added Santos, who has flown in fellow Brazilians Olavo Abreu and Suyan Queiroz to assist him in the training. “There’ll be three more instructors joining us soon. Training centres are open for both nationals and expatriates, and both men and women, and for all ages. Plans are also underway to stage a Ramadan event exclusively for nationals,” added Santos.

The championship on May 11 and 12 at the Armed Forces Officers Club consists of 63kgs and Under, 69kgs, 75kgs, 81kgs, 87kgs, 93kgs, 99kgs, over 99kgs and the open division, which is also termed the absolute class. Entrance is free and action starts at 3pm on both days.
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