DOHA: Katara will host over 100 sports activities on its waterfront, starting 7am on National Sport Day.
Under the theme ‘Live Sports’, Katara’s programmes for different segments of society comprise sports activities and competitions attended by 48 entities, to raise awareness about the importance and benefits of engaging in sports.
Last year, Katara organised 83 activities attended by 38 entities.
Unveiling the programme at a press conference yesterday, Ahmad Al Sayed, Deputy Director-General, Operations, Katara, and Chairman, Organising Committee for Sport Day Activities, said, “Katara is connected to the celebration which is a national event because it translates the keenness of the state and its efforts to build people’s capacity — physically and mentally — to achieve development and advancement within Qatar National Vision 2030.
“Based on this principle, we seek to spread awareness about the importance of participating in sports — not just on this day but throughout the year so that it becomes a daily habit, given its psychological and health benefits.”
He said Katara plays a vital role as an integrated cultural city that includes cultural and artistic facilities, provides suitable environment for hosting and sponsoring sports activities as it is a centre for tourism, recreation and sports and promotes values sports comprise.
“We are pleased that Katara is at the forefront of the entities — from all ministries and different foundations — that will hold activities, including sports and entertainment programmes, to celebrate the day.”
Participating sports federations and centres, companies and foundations include Qatar Swimming Association, Qatar Basketball Federation, Qatar Bodybuilding Federation, Qatar Boxing Federation, Qatar Tennis and Squash Federation, Handball Association, Golf Association, Qatar Shooting and Archery Association, Qatar Badminton Association, Qatar Sailing and Rowing Federation, Qatar Volleyball Association, Qatar Table Tennis Federation, Qatar Cycling Federation, Qatar Wrestling Federation, Qatar Chess Association and Qatar Football Association, among others.
Al Sayed was optimistic that thousands would visit Katara as in the previous years and expressed keenness to provide services they need.
“We will provide spacious parking to accommodate enough vehicles and reserve an external six-floor parking area for the day in addition to the ground parking with more than 2,000 spaces. Our goal is to encourage families to visit Katara and enjoy our activities,” he added.
Abdulrahman Al Tamimi, Vice-Chairman, Sport Day Organising Committee, said, “Katara is unique and attractive destination for visitors during National Sport Day as it comprises restaurants and tourist places that will enable visitors to mark the day.”
He said this year’s activities will be unique and creative with new elements such as the new game of wave-breaking being organised for the first time.
“Visitors can enjoy the carnival in the evening, along with other events, including games, lectures, and competitions,” he added.
The Peninsula
