Tournament provides participants a pathway to the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship DUBAI: The first two days of the AJP Tour Dubai International Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023 – Gi have been dominated by Sharjah Self-Defense Sports Club at Al-Nasr Club. For the latest updates, follow us on Twitter @ArabNewsSport Day one saw action in the infants and junior divisions, with Sharjah securing the top spot, followed by Palms Sports Academy in second place and ADMA Academy third. On day two, in the teens, youth and masters’ categories, Sharjah again took the lead, with Commando Group and A.F.N.T. in second and third respectively. Regarded as one of the most significant tournaments organized by Abu Dhabi Jiu-Jitsu Pro, or AJP, across multiple countries worldwide, the tournaments offer participants the chance to improve their ranking scores, with first place providing 600 points. These points can help the athletes qualify for the Abu Dhabi World Professional Jiu-Jitsu Championship, or ADWPJJC, and the Abu Dhabi World Jiu-Jitsu Awards at the end of the season. Youssef Abdullah Al-Batran, board member of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, or UAEJJF, said the AJP tournaments were important for athlete development. “(The) AJP has extensive expertise in organizing tournaments in various cities and capitals worldwide, bringing together top players to culminate their season through participation in (the) ADWPJJC and the Abu Dhabi award, which represent the highest honors in the sport,” he said. “These tournaments play a crucial role in the development of local talents, providing opportunities for interaction with skilled and distinguished international athletes, thereby fostering their growth and progress.” Rafael Guedes, coach of the infants and junior categories at Al-Wahda Jiu-Jitsu Academy, highlighted the growth opportunities provided by AJP tournaments. Johnny Rodrigues from Colombia, representing the Commando Group Academy, secured the gold medal in the masters’ one category, brown belt, weighing 94 kg. “Winning in the UAE carries a higher prestige than any other tournament due to the diverse group of international champions it attracts,” he said.