ABU DHABI - The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is preparing to host the historic Gulf Youth Games, set to commence on April 16 and culminate on May 2, 2024. This landmark sporting event will see the participation of 3,500 promising young athletes, both male and female, from across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) competing in 25 individual and team sports. The unifying theme for the games is "Our Gulf is One... Our Youth is Promising."
Comprehensive Preparations Ensure Readiness
The UAE has meticulously prepared all sports facilities across the five host emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, and Fujairah. Nabil Ashour, Chairman of the Technical Committee, reaffirmed the committee's unwavering commitment to fulfilling the requirements of all participating teams. This includes ensuring training venues, equipment, and amenities are in optimal condition to deliver a world-class sporting experience.
Strategic Allocation of Games Highlights Emirate Strengths
The games will be strategically spread across various locations, capitalizing on the sporting strengths of each emirate. Abu Dhabi will serve as the host for judo, swimming, and football competitions, while Dubai will be the focal point for basketball, padel, and table tennis. Sharjah will stage handball and chess tournaments, with Ajman and Fujairah respectively playing host to triathlon, fencing, and badminton events.
National Teams Undergo Rigorous Training
Athletes from various sports federations in the UAE are diligently undergoing intensive training programs in preparation for the games. The UAE Judo Federation announced the selection of its national team, which will travel to Tunisia for a focused training camp to further hone their skills. The UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation meticulously selected its team based on their performances in national championships. Similar team selections and training programs are underway for archery and golf.
Emphasis on Cultivating Future Champions
A critical objective of the games is the cultivation of future sporting champions. Dr. Saeed Musabah Al Kaabi, President of the UAE Archery Federation, highlighted the tournament's significance in expanding the reach of archery and fostering talent among GCC countries. Major General Abdullah Al Sayed Al Hashemi, Vice President of the Emirates Golf Federation, echoed this sentiment, underlining the importance of the games for U-18 players.
Collaborative Efforts Ensure Smooth Operations
The UAE is fostering close collaboration with the National Olympic Committees and sports federations of all participating GCC countries. A meeting of delegation directors from all GCC nations is scheduled for April 14 to discuss logistics and ensure a seamless event. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, appointed director of the UAE sports delegation, expressed his unwavering commitment to effectively managing the Emirati team and guaranteeing a successful games on home turf.
The inaugural Gulf Youth Games promise to be a magnificent celebration of athletic prowess and regional unity. With state-of-the-art facilities, well-prepared athletes, and a focus on youth development, this event is poised to leave an enduring legacy.
