U.S. wrestlers earn gold and silver at Open Masters Games in Abu Dhabi
Article submitted by Mark Dollins
Abu Dhabi, UAE- As beach wrestling continues its global expansion, opportunities for masters-level competitors are growing alongside it. In mid-February, the Open Masters Games in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, provided a major international platform, where U.S. athletes Mike Clark (Louisville, Ky.) and Mark Dollins (Connecticut) delivered podium performances against a deep international field.
The Open Masters Games, organized by the International Masters Games Association (IMGA), drew more than 23,000 competitors across 37 sports in the UAE capital city. Competition spanned multiple age divisions beginning at 30+ through 55+, highlighting the sport’s accessibility and continued growth worldwide. The IMGA has since transitioned to the World Master Sport brand as part of its global expansion.
Clark captured gold in the 35+ division at 80 kg with a dominant 4–0 performance, not allowing a single point throughout the tournament. He added to his performance with a victory in an exhibition match over the 30+ 70 kg champion. Dollins secured silver in the 55+ division at 90 kg and earned gold in Jiu Jitsu (94 kg, 55+) as well. Both athletes bring extensive experience from USA Beach Wrestling national-level competition, with Dollins winning national titles in 2024 and 2025.
For Clark, the result represents a significant milestone. As a former beach wrestling USA Senior World Team member and USA Masters National Runner-Up, he becomes the first American male to win a masters beach wrestling world title at the Open Master Games, further establishing the United States as a growing force in international beach wrestling competition.
“Beach wrestling is gaining a lot of traction in the U.S. and abroad – especially for masters athletes because it’s a high-action, quick-scoring style that is easier on the body,” Dollins said. “Takedowns and push outs are worth one point each and throws are for three points. First to three wins, and you’re moving.”
“The level of masters competition in Abu Dhabi was high and I see our U.S. local & national events continuing to rise,” Clark said. “We’re seeing more athletes, better matches, and more opportunities to compete at a high level.”
The U.S. presence at the Open Masters Games was supported by USA Beach Wrestling National Director Ed Duncan, who provided custom team gear and helped facilitate athlete participation after initial discussions with Clark in late summer. His continued support reflects a broader effort to expand international opportunities for American beach wrestlers at all levels.
Upcoming Beach Wrestling Tour of America Events
The Beach Wrestling Tour of America continues to build momentum with several key events already scheduled, including events organized in Kentucky by Clark.
• U.S. Beach Wrestling Nationals & World Team Qualifier
May 8, 2026 – Carolina Beach, NC
• Kentucky Beach Wrestling State Dual Championships
July 18, 2026 – Louisville, KY
Co-Ed Team dual format with $1,000 first-place prize & exhibition opportunities
• 2026 U.S. Beach Wrestling Nationals
August 14–15, 2026 – Huntington Beach, CA
• Kentucky Beach Wrestling State Open Championships (5th Anniversary)
August 22, 2026 – Louisville, KY
Featuring men’s and women’s divisions across high school, senior, masters, and novice levels along with cash prizes
Additional tour stops will be announced soon as event plans are finalized.
