Abu Dhabi: Jasour – News Desk
Mohamed Al-Qaid, the former Paralympic champion and head of the technical committee at Al-Thiqah Club, announced 70 diverse competitions included in the 13th edition of the Sharjah International Athletics Meet for Those with Special Needs, which will start next Sunday and last for three days.
This was revealed at the press conference held by the organizing committee, attended by several prominent figures, including Mohamed Fadel Al-Hameli, Chairman of the Paralympic Committee, Dr. Khaled Omar Al-Madfa, Chairman of Al-Thiqah Club, Thani Jumaa Bel Reqqad, Chairman of Dubai Club for People of Determination, Abdulrazak Bel Rashid, Chairman of the West Asia Federation, and Saif Al-Naimi, Executive Director of Al Ain Club for Special Needs.
Dr. Khaled Omar Al-Madfa expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, for his unlimited and continuous support for individuals with special needs, reflecting Sharjah’s vision and status as a friendly capital for those with special needs and children.
He also praised the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, for his continuous support for the journey and initiatives of those with special needs, believing in the importance of their role in sustainable development. Additionally, he thanked the Sharjah Sports Council for its significant support and direct supervision of the meet, as well as the sponsors and media for their ongoing role in making the event successful.
Engineer Youssef Al-Doubi, the championship director, highlighted the importance of the event, which represents an exceptional championship in terms of organization and participants. He said, “The Sharjah International Athletics Meet for Those with Special Needs is one of the most prominent sports events in the Emirate of Sharjah, and it receives great attention from the wise leadership within the emirate. Al-Thiqah Club has made all necessary preparations to ensure the success of the championship, including preparing the playing fields and other facilities to provide an ideal environment for sports competitions.”
Mohamed Al-Qaid, the former Paralympic champion and head of the technical committee at Al-Thiqah Club, stated: “The championship includes 70 diverse competitions and represents a platform to discover new talents that can be integrated into the national teams in various sports for those with special needs.” He added: “So far, the number of participating athletes in the meet is 181, and it is expected to increase with the continuation of registration and the arrival of delegations. The meet is a sports gathering that attracts a large number of well-known Paralympic names.”
Emirati athlete Shama Al-Mazmi, participating in the club throwing competition, expressed her happiness in representing the UAE and her confidence in achieving podium finishes, noting that the meet is a significant opportunity to showcase the capabilities of Emirati talents. Czech athlete Anna Luxova, specializing in shot put, confirmed that her continuous participation in the meet reflects the importance of the championship for preparing for upcoming international events, expressing her hope to achieve top positions.
