Abu Dhabi: The sport of Jiu-Jitsu has not just taken giant strides in the UAE but it is also making inroads in other countries like Singapore.
A small contingent from Singapore has made it to the capital to take part in the ongoing Jiu-Jitsu World Festival and World Pro to be held later at the IPIC Arena on Wednesday.
Brazilian coach and black belt holder Bruno Amorim, who runs the Fama fitness and martial arts centre in Singapore, is here with his team and they are already creating waves with their success.
Nine-year-old Warren Tan from Fama won the gold in the 36kg grey belt category while the Bhurucha siblings comprising Tyler, Dylaan and Naomi won gold, silver and bronze, respectively.
Tan’s sister Natalie is also scheduled to compete in the tournament for youth that gets underway on Friday while coach Amorim will also be putting himself to test in the 69kg.
A beaming Tan, proudly sporting his medals, said that the contest was easy for him and he would like to come here and defend it next year.
“I fought in a higher category but I was pretty comfortable and didn’t have to use much of my strength. This is my first tournament abroad but I’m happy,” said a delighted Tan adding that he got into the sport because his mother Wendy wanted him to join.
“Having won this tournament I want to continue. I get a lot of support from my sister and mom has been all for the sport,” added Tan.
For Wendy, enrolling her kids in Jiu-Jitsu initially was just to keep them occupied and to be fit but she was overwhelmed by what she had so far seen here in the UAE.
“I must say this venue is very impressive and the support the sport has here can be seen from the turnout. My daughter was here last year and she had good things to say so, I also came down this time round. I’m very impressed,” she said.
Coach Amorim had a job offer in Abu Dhabi two years back but he chose Singapore only because of his love for rain.
“Actually the package there wasn’t that good, but I like the monsoons and it rains almost every alternate day there. I later started on my own after my friend left and joined here. Now I have 60 odd students and the sport is picking up in Singapore,” said Amorim, who competes in Jiu-Jitsu tournaments around the globe and is eyeing the prospect of doing well at the World Pro in a week’s time.
“My wards have done well and now it is my turn to do so. I need to lose few kilos though quickly to compete in my weight category. Hopefully, I can also do well.”
