Asma Al-Hosani and Shamma Al-Kalbani strike gold as UAE women add 6 medals at Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship

ALMATY: The UAE Women’s Jiu-Jitsu National Team continued the country’s strong campaign at the 10th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship by winning six medals in the women’s competition on Saturday at Almaty Arena in Kazakhstan.

The two gold, one silver and three bronze medals took the UAE’s overall tally to 15 medals over two days, following the men’s haul of nine on Friday. The results keep the team firmly in contention for top spot in the overall standings.

Mubarak Saleh Al-Menhali, technical director of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu and Mixed Martial Arts Federation, said: “Today, Emirati women are a key part of our success in continental and international competitions. The support of the UAE’s wise leadership has helped create a strong foundation for women’s sport, providing a clear pathway from identifying talented athletes to developing champions capable of standing on the podium.

“Our female athletes play an important role in the UAE’s overall medal tally and continental standing. Today’s results reflect the quality of the work being done with this group and the athletes’ discipline, ambition and ability to perform under pressure. We will continue developing this program to ensure sustained success and prepare future generations to represent the UAE.”

The performances highlighted the role Emirati women have come to play in the country’s sporting achievements. Gold medals were won by Asma Al-Hosani (Under 52kg) and Shamma Al-Kalbani (Under 63kg). Alaonod Al-Harbi claimed silver in the Under 48kg division, while bronze medals went to Hamda Al-Shkeili (Under 45kg), Balqees Abdullah (Under 48kg) and Hessa Al-Shamsi (Under 52kg).

Women’s team coach Marina Ribeiro said: “The athletes entered the competition well prepared both