LAHORE – Pakistani athletes have demonstrated their skills by winning eight bronze medals during the 5th Asian Ju-Jitsu Championship 2021 held from September 13-16, 2021 at Abu Dhabi, UAE under the aegis of Ju-Jitsu Asian Union (JJAU).
According to Pakistan Ju-Jitsu Federation (PJJF) official, there were total 468 entries from 18 countries in this mega event, whereas, Pakistan just fielded only 8 players due to paucity of funds. It is remarkable that despite of the corona restrictions by the government in the country, no training or event was held in Pakistan as government has banned all indoor close-contact sports in order to prevent spread of the virus since last two years. On the other hand, the participants from other countries have been in constant training sessions for this event. Despite of this, Pakistan has secured eight bronze medals in duo men, women, mixed and show men, women and mixed categories, he added.
Muhammad Ammar and Abu Hurraira won bronze medal in show men category along with Dilawar Khan Sannan and Muhammad Ali Rashid who also won another bronze in duo men category. Whereas, Isra Waseem and Kainat Arif won bronze medal in duo women as well as show women category. Abu Hurraira and Kainat Arif won bronze medal in show mixed along with Dilawar Khan Sannan and Isra Waseem who also won bronze in duo mixed category.
He said the PJJF has extended their heartiest congratulations on this achievement of our talented players, who have always made our motherland proud at every international forum. “By the grace of Allah Almighty, our players have won these medals. Their hard work and dedicated training have paid off, although, no national event could be held due to COVID restrictions, and even one player suffered from Covid-19 just two days prior to the event. They have proven their skills and won these medals.”
He also appreciated the hard work and commitment of PJJF Associate Secretary Tariq Ali, who mentored the team and enhanced their training skills. “The PSB executive board approved hiring of a foreign coach for the PJJF three years ago which has not yet been provided, however, in spite of non-availability of proper infrastructure and funds, our players have made us proud once again. Pakistani players outclassed and defeated all their Indian rivals in these categories.”
He added that India had made 82 entries in to the championship whereas Kazakhstan and Thailand made 64 and 59 entries. Their governments are spending a lot on their athletes and providing them all possible facilities. On the other hand, Pakistan who dominated as Asian champion from 2006 to 2014, despite lack of facilities or financial support, is still bringing medals in each event wherever they participate which is incredible.
Just two days earlier, Pakistan junior ju-jitsu team attended the World Ju-Jitsu eTournament under Ju-Jitsu International Federation held virtually and secured 7 gold and 2 silver medals attaining second position overall as only 9 teams from Pakistan took part against a total of 64. The sports circle requests that such sports and athletes who are bringing medals and achievements for our nation must be encouraged and highlighted. If provided with good facilities and infrastructure, these athletes can take Pakistan to the top position on the medal stand.
Source: The Nation