Arab Warrior Champions: Obaid Al-Nuaimi and Paul Mardinale Reign Supreme
The UAE's Obaid Al Nuaimi claimed the citizens category title at the inaugural Arab Warrior Championship, while Czech competitor Paul Mardina took the professional division crown. The event, organized by Fujairah Adventure Center with the Ministry of Sports, drew 885 participants across multiple categories, marking a significant milestone for fitness competitions in the emirate.
The competition showcased international talent alongside local athletes. Russian competitor Elisa Petrova won the women's professional category, while her compatriot Josephine secured first place in the amateur women's division. Team Eva topped the group competition standings.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi, president of the UAE Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation, praised the Adventure Center's execution of the inaugural event. He highlighted the strong participation from children and school students, which signals growing interest in fitness competitions among younger demographics.
The championship brought together 27 elite international athletes who competed alongside UAE champions. This mix created a competitive environment that elevated the standard of the event beyond typical regional competitions.
Amr Zein El Din, director of Fujairah Adventure Center, described the Arab Warrior Championship as a pivotal moment in the emirate's sporting calendar. The event featured varied challenges that tested different aspects of physical fitness and endurance.
The strong turnout of 885 participants suggests appetite for obstacle course racing and fitness competitions in the region. This could pave the way for more international-standard events in the UAE, particularly as the country continues positioning itself as a sports destination.
The success of this inaugural championship may encourage other emirates to host similar events, potentially creating a circuit of competitions that could attract more international athletes to the region.
Sara Khaled