Qatar has a prominent status in Asia and around the globe in the world of sport. Memories of an unforgettable and spectacular opening ceremony of Doha 2006 Asian Games still linger in the hearts and minds of many.
The same holds true with Indonesia as the country proved to the world that they can host an incredible 18th edition of the Asian Games with a glittering and mesmerising show at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
The sporting event, running for 15 days, has gathered the best Asian athletes from different cultures and background in one place promoting unity and peace. Over 13,000 athletes from 45 national Olympic committees are competing in 40 sports and 67 disciplines in the biggest multi-sport extravaganza outside Olympics with the schedule including a host of new events.
Qatar Olympic Committee President H E Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani who was present at the spectacular opening ceremony in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, said: “The opening ceremony has brought back memories of the unforgettable Opening Ceremony of Doha 2006, which has had a great impact on the development of the sport in Qatar.
“It has also shifted the eyes of the world toward Qatar as a global sporting hub. We are so proud of the legacy it has brought to our next generations of athletes in our country.
“We were so proud and happy to see the Qatari delegation marching amongst the other Asian countries. This is an important multi-sport event in the journey of our athletes towards greatness and success.”
This is the biggest-ever Qatari contingent at the Asiad. Team Qatar is represented by more than 200 athletes, including 29 females, who are competing across 30 events in 20 different sports. The team includes a strong mix of youth and experienced athletes. Young squash star Abdulla Al Tamimi carried the Qatari flag during the march past.
Qatar aim to better the 14-medal mark they achieved in Incheon four years ago. Qatar have pocketed 10 medals so far— 4 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze.
The gold medals were clinched by duo Cherif Younesse and Ahmad Tejan in beach volleyball competition, Abderrahman Samba in 400m hurdles, Abdalelah Haroun in 400m race, and Ashraf Saif in hammer throw, while silver medals were won by Yesir Salem Mubarak in the 3000m race, Tosin Ogunode in the 100m sprint and Fares Hassouna in weightlifting (94kg).
Abdullah Abubakr won one bronze in the 800m race, one bronze was won by Qatari riders in addition to one medal by Hamad Al Marri in shooting (Double Trap).
Qatar’s rich medals haul at the Asian Games proves how the country is moving forward to be a global sporting giant.
