Eighth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship to take place in Abu Dhabi


ABU DHABI: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship will bring together more than 1,500 male and female competitors from more than 30 countries at the Mubadala Arena from 3-8 May.

Organised by the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship starts with competitions for the adult division from 3-5 May, followed by the youth division from 6-8 May.

Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said that the sport of jiu-jitsu in the UAE is constantly developing, thanks to the great support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan adding that thanks to the wise leadership’s suppo
rt, Abu Dhabi continues to reaffirm its position as a global hub for sporting activities, and a major supporter and developer of jiu-jitsu worldwide.

Alhashmi expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stressing that His Highness’s generous patronage guarantees the success of the championship, contributing to solidifying the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s leadership in hosting major international Championship and attracting elite athletes.

Alhashmi added, ‘The UAE and its capital, Abu Dhabi, continue to play an effective and vital role in the development of sports and the advancement of the Jiu-Jitsu scene. Their initiatives in organising and hosting major sports events receive widespread international acclaim, as evidenced by hosting the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship and IMMAF Youth World Championship for three consecutive years, in addition to hosting the fifth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship back in 2021, which reflects the expertise and capabilities in providing all the elem
ents for the success of major international and continental events and the ability to dazzle the world.

‘We are confident in the success of the eighth edition of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship. We maintain continuous communication and meticulous oversight to ensure all tournament preparations are completed to the highest standards before its inauguration and throughout the competition.

‘The organising committee has developed and executed a comprehensive plan – addressing organisational and logistical aspects since the beginning of this year. We have been working closely with the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and delegations of participating countries, as well as partners, and sponsors to ensure an exceptional edition and a unique experience from the preparation stage to the hosting phase.’

With less than one week left to the competitions, the UAE Jiu-Jitsu national team is at a training camp and aiming to maintain the continental title and build on previous achievements, especially the recent accomplishment at t
he Asian Games in China at the end of last year, which culminated in achieving 10 historic medals for the UAE.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu national team had successfully retained the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship title for three consecutive years, during its latest edition held in February 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand, achieving 16 medals – 7 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze; solidifying the country’s position as the continental champions.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Eighth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship to take place in Abu Dhabi


ABU DHABI: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship will bring together more than 1,500 male and female competitors from more than 30 countries at the Mubadala Arena from 3-8 May.

Organised by the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship starts with competitions for the adult division from 3-5 May, followed by the youth division from 6-8 May.

Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said that the sport of jiu-jitsu in the UAE is constantly developing, thanks to the great support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan adding that thanks to the wise leadership’s suppo
rt, Abu Dhabi continues to reaffirm its position as a global hub for sporting activities, and a major supporter and developer of jiu-jitsu worldwide.

Alhashmi expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stressing that His Highness’s generous patronage guarantees the success of the championship, contributing to solidifying the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s leadership in hosting major international Championship and attracting elite athletes.

Alhashmi added, ‘The UAE and its capital, Abu Dhabi, continue to play an effective and vital role in the development of sports and the advancement of the Jiu-Jitsu scene. Their initiatives in organising and hosting major sports events receive widespread international acclaim, as evidenced by hosting the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship and IMMAF Youth World Championship for three consecutive years, in addition to hosting the fifth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship back in 2021, which reflects the expertise and capabilities in providing all the elem
ents for the success of major international and continental events and the ability to dazzle the world.

‘We are confident in the success of the eighth edition of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship. We maintain continuous communication and meticulous oversight to ensure all tournament preparations are completed to the highest standards before its inauguration and throughout the competition.

‘The organising committee has developed and executed a comprehensive plan – addressing organisational and logistical aspects since the beginning of this year. We have been working closely with the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and delegations of participating countries, as well as partners, and sponsors to ensure an exceptional edition and a unique experience from the preparation stage to the hosting phase.’

With less than one week left to the competitions, the UAE Jiu-Jitsu national team is at a training camp and aiming to maintain the continental title and build on previous achievements, especially the recent accomplishment at t
he Asian Games in China at the end of last year, which culminated in achieving 10 historic medals for the UAE.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu national team had successfully retained the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship title for three consecutive years, during its latest edition held in February 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand, achieving 16 medals – 7 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze; solidifying the country’s position as the continental champions.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Eighth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship to take place in Abu Dhabi


ABU DHABI: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship will bring together more than 1,500 male and female competitors from more than 30 countries at the Mubadala Arena from 3-8 May.

Organised by the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship starts with competitions for the adult division from 3-5 May, followed by the youth division from 6-8 May.

Abdulmunem Alsayed Mohammed Alhashmi, Chairman of the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, President of the Asian Jiu-Jitsu Union, and Senior Vice President of the International Jiu-Jitsu Federation, said that the sport of jiu-jitsu in the UAE is constantly developing, thanks to the great support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan adding that thanks to the wise leadership’s suppo
rt, Abu Dhabi continues to reaffirm its position as a global hub for sporting activities, and a major supporter and developer of jiu-jitsu worldwide.

Alhashmi expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, stressing that His Highness’s generous patronage guarantees the success of the championship, contributing to solidifying the UAE and Abu Dhabi’s leadership in hosting major international Championship and attracting elite athletes.

Alhashmi added, ‘The UAE and its capital, Abu Dhabi, continue to play an effective and vital role in the development of sports and the advancement of the Jiu-Jitsu scene. Their initiatives in organising and hosting major sports events receive widespread international acclaim, as evidenced by hosting the Jiu-Jitsu World Championship and IMMAF Youth World Championship for three consecutive years, in addition to hosting the fifth Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship back in 2021, which reflects the expertise and capabilities in providing all the elem
ents for the success of major international and continental events and the ability to dazzle the world.

‘We are confident in the success of the eighth edition of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship. We maintain continuous communication and meticulous oversight to ensure all tournament preparations are completed to the highest standards before its inauguration and throughout the competition.

‘The organising committee has developed and executed a comprehensive plan – addressing organisational and logistical aspects since the beginning of this year. We have been working closely with the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and delegations of participating countries, as well as partners, and sponsors to ensure an exceptional edition and a unique experience from the preparation stage to the hosting phase.’

With less than one week left to the competitions, the UAE Jiu-Jitsu national team is at a training camp and aiming to maintain the continental title and build on previous achievements, especially the recent accomplishment at t
he Asian Games in China at the end of last year, which culminated in achieving 10 historic medals for the UAE.

The UAE Jiu-Jitsu national team had successfully retained the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship title for three consecutive years, during its latest edition held in February 2023 in Bangkok, Thailand, achieving 16 medals – 7 gold, 5 silver, and 4 bronze; solidifying the country’s position as the continental champions.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Safiya Alsayegh reigns as UAE National Cycling Champion for fourth consecutive year


ABU DHABI: Safiya Alsayegh, the rising Emirati cycling star and UAE Team ADQ member, has secured her position as the UAE National Cycling Champion for the fourth consecutive year.

Her win in the 66 km race held in Nazwa, Sharjah, over the weekend reflects her dedication and exceptional talent and solidifies her status as a champion in women’s cycling. Zahra Hussein, member of the UAE Development Team came third and Marwa Salman, 17, member of the Emirati Talent Program, developed by the UAE Team ADQ, won in the Junior Category.

As Safiya continues to ascend to greater heights in her career, all eyes are now on her anticipated participation in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Her qualification is based on her exceptional performance and time scores in international races, including the Tour of Chongming Island and the Tour of Guangxi.

At the Paris Olympics, Safiya will script history as the first Emirati woman to compete in the cycling competition at the Olympic Games.

Safiya Alsayegh, UAE Team ADQ rider, said
, “I am truly grateful for this victory, which in large part is credited to the persistence and hard work that have always defined my career. My thanks go to my sponsors, my coach, Cristina San Emeterio, and especially UAE Team ADQ, for their unwavering support and guidance. Since I joined, we have consistently worked together to achieve results. This victory marks a personal milestone, but I am also proud to contribute to the collective progress of women’s cycling in the UAE.”

Melissa Moncada, President of UAE Team ADQ, said, “It’s a privilege to witness Safiya’s continued success, including securing her fourth UAE Road National Champion jersey and her historic qualification for the Paris Olympics, as the first Emirati woman to compete in the cycling event. Safiya embodies a spirit of resilience and passion for cycling, and she is carving a career that inspires us all. Safiya’s achievements elevate women’s cycling in the UAE and inspire future generations of athletes across the region, and as she prepares t
o represent the UAE on the global stage, we remain committed to providing her with the support and resources. ”

Safiya’s career exemplifies a relentless pursuit of excellence and the supportive ecosystem provided by the UAE Team ADQ. Since joining the team in 2021, Safiya has continuously raised the bar, showcasing her prowess on both local and international stages. Her recent win reflects the UAE’s growing ecosystem for women’s cycling.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Safiya Alsayegh reigns as UAE National Cycling Champion for fourth consecutive year


ABU DHABI: Safiya Alsayegh, the rising Emirati cycling star and UAE Team ADQ member, has secured her position as the UAE National Cycling Champion for the fourth consecutive year.

Her win in the 66 km race held in Nazwa, Sharjah, over the weekend reflects her dedication and exceptional talent and solidifies her status as a champion in women’s cycling. Zahra Hussein, member of the UAE Development Team came third and Marwa Salman, 17, member of the Emirati Talent Program, developed by the UAE Team ADQ, won in the Junior Category.

As Safiya continues to ascend to greater heights in her career, all eyes are now on her anticipated participation in the upcoming Paris Olympics. Her qualification is based on her exceptional performance and time scores in international races, including the Tour of Chongming Island and the Tour of Guangxi.

At the Paris Olympics, Safiya will script history as the first Emirati woman to compete in the cycling competition at the Olympic Games.

Safiya Alsayegh, UAE Team ADQ rider, said
, “I am truly grateful for this victory, which in large part is credited to the persistence and hard work that have always defined my career. My thanks go to my sponsors, my coach, Cristina San Emeterio, and especially UAE Team ADQ, for their unwavering support and guidance. Since I joined, we have consistently worked together to achieve results. This victory marks a personal milestone, but I am also proud to contribute to the collective progress of women’s cycling in the UAE.”

Melissa Moncada, President of UAE Team ADQ, said, “It’s a privilege to witness Safiya’s continued success, including securing her fourth UAE Road National Champion jersey and her historic qualification for the Paris Olympics, as the first Emirati woman to compete in the cycling event. Safiya embodies a spirit of resilience and passion for cycling, and she is carving a career that inspires us all. Safiya’s achievements elevate women’s cycling in the UAE and inspire future generations of athletes across the region, and as she prepares t
o represent the UAE on the global stage, we remain committed to providing her with the support and resources. ”

Safiya’s career exemplifies a relentless pursuit of excellence and the supportive ecosystem provided by the UAE Team ADQ. Since joining the team in 2021, Safiya has continuously raised the bar, showcasing her prowess on both local and international stages. Her recent win reflects the UAE’s growing ecosystem for women’s cycling.

Source: Emirates News Agency

EAHS participates in ECAHO General Assembly in Doha


DOHA: The Emirates Arabian Horse Society (EAHS) participated in the 41st edition of the General Assembly of the European Arabian Horse Organisation (ECAHO), which concluded on Sunday, at the Marsa Plaza Kempinski Hotel, Doha. Representatives from 28 member states of ECAHO in the Middle East and Europe were present.

ECAHO President Jaroslav Lacina chaired the meeting, which discussed several important issues, with Mohamed Al Harbi, Director-General of the EAHS and Vice President of ECAHO, present along with members of the Executive Office.

Dr. Omar Raza Gil was officially approved as an international member of the ‘B’ disciplinary committee, as well as Emirati national Ahmed Al Badi who was selected as an international ringmaster in the ECAHO. Anna Stojanowski of Poland on the other hand was elected to the position of Treasurer.

The Arabian Horse Championship, which is part of the El Jadida Horse Show held annually in Morocco, was upgraded from the (A) category to the (Title Show) category, while full membe
rship was changed from the Royal Cavalry of Oman to the Equestrian Federation in the Sultanate of Oman.

Furthermore, applications for associate membership of the Iraqi Arabian Horse Organisation and the Australian Arabian Breeders Alliance were reviewed, and various topics related to horse medicine and care were discussed as well as several reports of different committees and budgets, in addition to other technical matters.

ECAHO is the main body responsible for organising Arabian Horse Shows as well as setting up laws and conditions for such shows and selecting organisers and categories of participating horses, as it is also concerned with their safety and their veterinary care.

Al Harbi stated that the accreditation of Ahmed Al Badi as an international arena judge took place during the meeting, as that supports the directives of the EAHS to qualify trained technical personnel as per the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of th
e Presidential Court, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the EAHS, to support qualified UAE nationals in this field, under the supervision of Sheikh Zayed bin Hamad Al Nahyan, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the EAHS.

Al Harbi added that the UAE’s participation in the General Assembly of the ECAHO strengthens the country’s position and contributes to supporting decision-making related to Arabian horse shows and similar events, and that the UAE’s role in the organisation contributed to efforts aimed at developing guidelines and conditions in a manner suitable to the nature of the region.

The large Emirati presence in such forums also contributes to supporting national cadres, including Emirati judges, a disciplinary committee, and arena judges, and empowering them in the industry, Al Harbi said in conclusion.

Source: Emirates News Agency

UAE juggernaut continues as medal tally swells to 274 medals at inaugural Gulf Youth Games


DUBAI: Maintaining a stranglehold on the top spot, the UAE further solidified its dominance in the inaugural Gulf Youth Games UAE 2024, racking up a whopping 274 medals and continuing to widen the lead over other countries.

The UAE is currently hosting the inaugural edition of the first-ever Gulf Youth Games under the theme “Our Gulf is One… Our Youth is Promising.’

On Day 13, the UAE athletes had their most successful day yet, bringing home an impressive 43 medals after Emirati athletes produced stellar performances in archery, golf, karate, swimming, judo, and billiards.

The UAE’s impressive haul of 274 medals comprised 90 gold, 97 silver, and 87 bronze. Saudi Arabia boosted its medal count by securing an additional 30 medals, bringing the total to 123, securing second place with 49 gold, 46 silver, and 28 bronze. Kuwait maintained the third-place position with 106 medals, including 30 gold, 41 silver, and 35 bronze. Qatar followed in fourth place with 65 medals, including 26 gold, 16 silver, and 23 br
onze. Rounding up the top five is Bahrain with 66 medals (21 gold, 17 silver, and 28 bronze). Oman came in sixth place with 48 medals (17 gold, 11 silver, and 20 bronze).

In the competitions at the Sharjah Police Officers Club, the UAE’s national archery team showcased their brilliance, leading the standings with 22 medals in various categories, including 10 gold, 7 silver, and 5 bronze.

The UAE’s rising stars dazzled at the karate mats, securing five medals (two gold and three bronze) in the individual kata and team kumite competitions on the concluding day of the second round. Their stellar performance continued from the first day, where they clinched 18 medals (five gold, six silver, and six bronze), bringing their total to 23 medals (seven gold, seven silver, and nine bronze).

The UAE golf team swept the competition, claiming all three individual medals and the team gold at the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

The judo competitions concluded at the Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City in Abu Dhabi. The Saudi Arabi
an team won the gold after taking the top spot in the rankings with seven medals, including five gold and two silver. Following closely, the Kuwaiti team secured second place with eight medals, comprising two gold, three silver, and three bronze. The UAE team clinched third place with eight medals, including a gold awarded to player Saif Al-Hammadi in the Under 60 kg competition and three silver and four bronze medals.

In swimming, the UAE national team secured eight medals in competitions held at the Mohammed Bin Zayed Sports City Centre pool, bringing their total to 18 medals including four gold, eight silver, and six bronze.

Source: Emirates News Agency

Kuwait Handball youth team reaches final in Morocco’s Arab tourney


Kuwait handball youth team qualified for the finals of the Arab Youth Handball tournament, after defeating Saudi Arabia 30-29 on Sunday.

The Kuwaiti team will face the winner between the Moroccan team and Tunisia in the semifinal.

The tournament currently being held in the city of Casablanca.

Source: Kuwait News Agency

Kuwait Handball youth team reaches final in Morocco’s Arab tourney


Kuwait handball youth team qualified for the finals of the Arab Youth Handball tournament, after defeating Saudi Arabia 30-29 on Sunday.

The Kuwaiti team will face the winner between the Moroccan team and Tunisia in the semifinal.

The tournament currently being held in the city of Casablanca.

Source: Kuwait News Agency

Preparations for the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship enter final stage


ABU DHABI: Preparations for the 8th Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship, scheduled to run from May 3 to 8 at Mubadala Arena in Zayed Sports City, are nearing completion, the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation has announced. The competitions, which will attract 1,500 athletes from over 30 countries, are hosted by Abu Dhabi for the second time in the last three years.

The championship, organised by the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Union and hosted by the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, is set to showcase the pinnacle of jiu-jitsu talent on the continent. With the participating delegations set to start arriving soon, the organising team is putting the finishing touches on their plans.

Abdullah Al Zaabi, Head of the Events and Activities Section at the UAE Jiu-Jitsu Federation, extended his gratitude to the wise leadership of the UAE for their vision and support, which has led to Abu Dhabi becoming one of the leading hosts for major international sporting events.

‘Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championship for the second time in thr
ee years reflects UAEJJF’s keenness to promote the sport and take it to greater heights,’ said Al Zaabi.

He also reiterated the commitment of the federation to deliver a world-class event befitting Abu Dhabi’s status as the ‘World Jiu-Jitsu Capital.’

‘Preparations for the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championships are being conducted in close coordination with strategic partners, including Abu Dhabi Police, Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi airports, as well as the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. Every detail has been meticulously arranged, from welcoming guests at airports to ensuring their pleasant stay, in accordance with the renowned Emirati hospitality culture,’ Added Al Zaabi.

He further emphasised the extensive support infrastructure in place, with 300 dedicated volunteers ready to assist in welcoming the participating delegations at the airports and guide them to the designated hotels for their stay, where an information desk will operate around the clock to provide guests with information about the
championship. The volunteer teams also assist in coordinating the entrance and exit of the audience and organizing attendance in the stands, and regularly operate a set of buses that connect the hotels of the participating delegations with the championship hosting site.

The organising committee has ensured the provision of designated training areas for the participating teams before the start of the competitions, and comprehensive health services including a full clinic and ambulance services, in addition to securing taxis at the event location, as well as coordinating with the Abu Dhabi Police events committee to ensure security and safety standards.

The UAEJJF is also working closely with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi to create a dedicated fan zone which features an array of fitness-related activities, cultural elements, and a sports wellness area, while there will also be merchandise outlets and a wide selection of culinary delights.

Elsewhere, Alexandre Nascimento, Head Referee for
the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championships, said: ‘This edition of the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championships is the largest gathering of Asian Jiu-Jitsu athletes we have seen since we introduced the Jiu-Jitsu Asian Championships eight years ago. A total of 1500 athletes from over 30 countries will be competing over six days.

‘The competitions, starting at 9 am, will unfold across five large mats. To manage the extensive schedule of the competitions, we’ll have 30 referees working daily, supported by 30 technical support staff members handling various aspects of the competitions, including overseeing the fight order, publishing results, assisting with the medals ceremony, and more.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

Gulf Youth Games: Emirati athletes raise bar, grab record-breaking 37 medals in single day


DUBAI: Adding another feather to their cap, Emirati athletes continued their impressive showing at the first Gulf Youth Games UAE 2024 as they added a record-breaking 37 medals on the twelfth day.

This remarkable feat established a new record for the highest number of medals attained in a single day since the tournament commenced on April 16.

The UAE is currently hosting the inaugural edition of first-ever Gulf Youth Games, under the theme “Our Gulf is One… Our Youth is Promising.’

Kicked off on16th April and ending on May 2, this event brings together a remarkable 3,500 young athletes, including males and females, competing in a diverse range of 24 sports disciplines.

In 12 competitions took place on Saturday, the UAE secured 18 medals in karate, 10 in swimming, four in judo medals, three in archery, two in cycling medals. This splendid performance further solidified their position atop the medal standings. Their overall tally now stands at 231 medals, comprising 73 gold, 86 silver, and 72 bronze.

Sau
di Arabia also saw an increase in their medal count, reaching 93 in total, with 40 gold, 33 silver, and 20 bronze. Kuwait followed closely behind in third place with 89 medals, including 23 gold, 31 silver, and 35 bronze. Bahrain secured fourth place with 57 medals, boasting 19 gold, 15 silver, and 23 bronze. Qatar advanced to fifth place with 42 medals, consisting of 17 gold, 10 silver, and 15 bronze. Oman secured sixth place with 46 medals, comprising 17 gold, 10 silver, and 19 bronze.

Source: Emirates News Agency

UAE Team Emirates’ Morgado sprints to victory in Asturias


ASTURIAS: A sprint in the rain gave UAE Team Emirates’ Antonio Morgado his second victory as a pro.

After the success obtained last Sunday in the Giro di Romagna, the Portuguese cyclist won stage 2 of the Vuelta Asturias, preceding Albert Torres (Movistar) and teammate Isaac Del Toro, who continues his leadership in the general classification.

The race, which started from Ribeira de Arriba and rolled for 200 km to Ribadesella on a course with one 2nd category climb and five 3rd category hills, the last one at 40 km to go, was controlled perfectly by UAE Team Emirates, that gave freedom to a five riders breakaway, before neutralizing that action at -20 km.

The solo attempt by Samuel Fernandez (Caja Rural-Seguros RGA), was neutralised by the Emirati team, and set up the final sprint in which Antonio Morgado prevailed thanks to a powerful acceleration.

This is the 28th victory of the season for UAE Team Emirates, and tomorrow they will try to defend the leader’s jersey of Isaac Del Toro in the final stage at
Benia de Onis-Oviedo (140 km): the main opponent will be Josè Manuel Diaz (Burgos-BH), who is 3rd at 1’09’, while in second place there is Del Toro’s mate Rafal Majka.

Commenting on his win, Morgado said, ‘The race was long and the day cold and with a lot of rain. The team trusted me, and all my mates did a great performance in trying to give me the opportunity to win, so I tried to sprint exploiting a super good lead-out.”

Source: Emirates News Agency