UAE to Compete in 12th World Games in Chengdu: A Testament to Athletic Prowess and International Sports Commitment
Chengdu, China – As the start of the 12th edition of the World Games approaches, scheduled for August 7 to 17, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced its participation with a robust team of eight skilled athletes. Competing in three distinct sports—jiu-jitsu, muaythai, and triathlon—these athletes are set to showcase their talents on a global stage, reflecting the UAE’s long-standing dedication to the advancement of sports and athletic achievement.
The national jiu-jitsu team from the UAE comprises six remarkable competitors. Mohammed Al Suwaidi (69 kg), Mahdi Al Awlaki (77 kg), Saeed Al Kubaisi (85 kg), Asma Al Hosani (52 kg), Shamsa Al Amri (57 kg), and Shamma Al Kalbani (63 kg) will be competing in the dynamic art of jiu-jitsu, which has gained immense popularity in the UAE and beyond. Their discipline and commitment exemplify the hard work that has propelled the UAE into a prominent position in the realm of martial arts.
In addition to the judiciously selected jiu-jitsu team, Maryam Al Shamsi will represent the UAE in the challenging triathlon, a test of endurance and versatility that combines swimming, cycling, and running. Furthermore, Mohammed Touizi will step into the ring to compete in muaythai, a sport that requires both physical prowess and mental fortitude. The diverse range of disciplines not only highlights the individual talents of the athletes but also emphasizes the UAE’s intention to strive for excellence across multiple sporting arenas.
In preparation for this esteemed event, the Technical and Sports Affairs Department of the National Olympic Committee of the UAE has conducted extensive virtual meetings with the respective sports federations to ensure that all logistical aspects are thoroughly planned. The World Games, organized by the International World Games Association (IWGA) and recognized by the International Olympic Committee, will host over 5,000 athletes from 118 countries across an impressive 34 sports disciplines. This significant event thus offers a platform for athletes worldwide to shine in lesser-publicized sports, meriting recognition and acclaim.
The UAE’s journey at the World Games commenced in 2009 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, where the nation claimed its inaugural medal—a bronze in snooker by the accomplished athlete Mohamed Shehab. Since then, the UAE has successfully amassed a total of 12 medals in the World Games’ illustrious history. A notable highlight emerged during the 2017 edition held in Wrocław, Poland, where Faisal Al Ketbi secured both gold and silver medals in jiu-jitsu, showcasing the UAE’s prowess in this dynamically engaging martial art. Additionally, the air sports team added to its distinction by clinching a bronze medal in mixed parachuting.
The UAE’s most remarkable performance to date unfolded at the 11th edition of the World Games in Birmingham, USA, in 2022. The delegation returned with an impressive haul of eight medals comprising two gold, one silver, and five bronze across jiu-jitsu, muaythai, and freefall parachuting. This achievement enabled the UAE to ascend ten places in the all-time World Games medal standings, now ranking 56th among 101 competing nations. Although Italy maintains its position at the top with an astonishing 490 medals, the trajectory of the UAE’s growth in international competitions is undeniable.
The UAE’s active involvement in the World Games in Chengdu serves as a testament to the country’s unwavering commitment to fostering international sporting excellence and its ongoing development in non-Olympic sports. As the nation’s athletes prepare for this prestigious global event, they not only carry their aspirations in pursuit of individual and national glory but also represent a burgeoning sporting culture that values commitment, discipline, and the spirit of competition.
In conclusion, as the UAE embarks on this journey to Chengdu, the anticipation for the upcoming events grows. The nation’s dedication to sports not only enhances its international image but also inspires future generations to engage in athletic endeavors. The UAE’s participation in the World Games is emblematic of a broader vision that champions athletic achievement in all forms, bridging cultural divides and fostering unity through the universal language of sports.
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