Qatar National Day celebrations by different communities and schools at Al Rayyan Sport Complex yesterday. Pics: Baher Amin/The Peninsula
More than 3,000 fitness enthusiasts took part in a fun run which kicked off the Associated Activities of the Qatar National Day (QND) Celebrations at Al Rayyan Sports Complex yesterday.
Titled Takbo Handog sa Qatar (Run for Qatar), the 2km fun run was organised by the United Filipino Organizations in Qatar (UFOQ) in collaboration with the Filipino International Triathletes Club Qatar Chapter (FITQ).
Supported by various organisations under UFOQ, the fun run was held to express the gratitude of the Filipino community to the host country Qatar.
“This activity is aimed at uniting Filipino expats in the country to show our gratitude to Qatar which we all consider our second home. We want to make a memorable and significant contribution to the nationwide celebration through this fun run wherein different Filipino community groups are represented. We would also like to thank all those who participated and volunteered to make this event a success,’ said UFOQ Chairman Henry Dimaano.
Prizes were awarded to first three finishers in men, women and children categories at the conclusion of the activity.
The fun run was followed by a fun-filled programme which saw the participation of various groups representing Indonesian, Filipino and Malaysian communities as well as schools. It started with a parade of students and community teams taking part in the show.
The programme comprised songs, general shows and thematic performances which revolved around this year’s QND theme “Promise of Prosperity and Glory” and presented by a number of private schools.
Students of Philippine International School Qatar, Scholars International School, Philippine School Doha, Doha Modern Indian School and Olive International School enthralled a large number of audience as they staged a wide array of performances which mirrored the rich culture and tradition of Qatar and their own countries.
Wearing colourful costumes and using innovative props, the students impressed with their performances which entailed intensive preparations. In addition, the Qatar Institute of Speech and Hearing also staged two performances.
The school shows were followed by a cultural extravaganza featuring groups from various expatriate communities.
The Indonesian cultural performances included Bajidor Kahot and Rampak by Puspa Qinarya, Angklung and Tari Kipas by Group Messaied, a song number by Rini and saxophone performance by Budi Wahono.
The Filipino community was represented by Bayanihan Group Dancers, Philippine Versatile Dance Movers, Royale Qatar Dancers, The Rooks Band MusicHero.
Malaysian traditional dances as well as tabla and Kompang (hand drums) performances by Malaysian performers also entertained the crowd.
The programme saw the attendance of thousands of people including community leaders and Embassy officials, among others.
