Fujairah to host traditional sword fighting tournament

Over 150 contenders from the UAE and GCC countries are expected to take part. Mazafin Al Monazala, is an ancient and unique sword fighting contest, which is very common among the Emiratis who live in the mountains, and have managed to keep the tradition alive.

It is being held under the auspices of Shaikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, and will be supervised by Shaikh Abdulah bin Hamad bin Saif Al Sharqi and Adnan Hamad. Sultan Maleeh will head the panel of judges. Participants should be knowledgeable in the ways of the local ‘martial art’ and must be committed to the highest degree especially when it comes to the safety aspects. The participants have to adhere strictly to the competition schedule and must take part wearing the national dress, officials said, adding that the training sessions will be held at the championship venue.

The champion will get a sword made of gold and Dh100,000, the runner-up Dh60,000 and a silver sword, and the third placed swordsman will get a bronze sword alongwith Dh40,000.

Those who finish in positions from fourth to eighth will each get Dh10,000.


salah@khalejtimes.com