The Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani participated in sports activities with children from Qatar Orphan Foundation (Dhreima) at Al Arabi Sports Club yesterday. The Deputy Emir also took part in activities at the Khalifa International Tennis and Squash Complex and toured its facilities, including the Heritage Village, the Kids Village and the VIP Village.
The Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada opening the Qapco Club in Mesaieed yesterday. (Kammutty VP)
By MOHAMMAD SHOEB
DOHA: The initiative taken by the Heir Apparent to celebrate Qatar National Sport Day every year will help bring the youth from majlises and cafes to playgrounds, the Minister of Energy and Industry H E Dr Mohammed bin Saleh Al Sada told The Peninsula on the sidelines of the opening ceremony of Qapco Club in Mesaieed yesterday.
Asked about Qatar being the host of 2022 FIFA World Cup, how the government is planning to attract youth to the playgrounds, the minister said: “One of the most important initiatives taken in this regard is the one taken by the Heir Apparent, H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to celebrate a dedicated Sport Day every year. This will work as the biggest factor in bringing people to the playgrounds, who usually watch television in majlises and spend time in cafes. They are going to be an important parcel of sports.”
Dr Al Sada inaugurated Qapco’s new recreational and sports club by kicking a football into a replica of a goalpost specially arranged for him on the stage.
The minister was accompanied by Hamad Rashid Al Mohannadi, Chairman of Qapco, and Dr Mohammed Yousef Al Mulla, Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the company.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Dr Al Sada said: “In line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 (QNV 2030), sports will support a sustainable future for generations to come by shaping a fitter nation and a healthier tomorrow.
“It is the responsibility of every governmental agency, private company, teacher or parent to share positive values and benefits associated with sports with their employees, teams, children and families.”
He also applauded Qapco for its efforts in supporting values and benefits of sports through the introduction of the new facility.
“Mesaieed has been recognised as a centre of excellence for industrialisation and economic diversification. It will now also be recognised for its world-class sporting facilities and promoting sports within its community,” he said
Al Mohannadi thanked the minister for his support.
He said: “I would like to express our sincere thanks to H E Dr Mohammed Saleh Al Sada for his unwavering support for our ongoing activities. As part of the company’s contribution to the wellbeing of its employees and their families, the Qapco board decided to establish a unique recreational and sports club which encourages the practice of sports on a regular basis.
“Sports and athletic competitions have always been part of the Qapco tradition and legacy,” he said.
The Qapco Club is one of the largest corporate sports clubs in Qatar and the region and is a unique world-class recreational and sports facility.
It offers a wide array of activities and boasts a FIFA Grade Two football field, a bowling arena, Olympic-sized pools, modern fitness centres, tennis and squash courts, snooker and ping-pong tables and an impressive indoor multi-purpose hall.
All sports facilities are compliant with international sports federations’ standards.
Dr Al Mulla said that he was very proud to offer to Qapco employees such an impressive facility and hoped that it will contribute to building a healthy and friendly environment within the Qapco family and community.
The opening ceremony was followed by the firm’s Sport Day activities at the new club.
Over 4,000 employees and their families participated in 43 competitions, including friendly football matches, bowling tournaments, public challenge races and volleyball matches.
The Peninsula
