Doha: Qatar national athletics champion and Dolphin Energy Doha Dash 2016 AmbassadorMariam Farid is aiming to qualify for next year’s IAAF World Indoor Championships in the US while Rio 2016 Olympic ambition remains her top priority.
Supporting the vision behind the Qatar National Sport Day, Doha Dash, which has established itself as one of the most popular community events in the Qatari Capital, is expected to attract thousands of runners to Losail Circuit on February 9, 2016.
Excerpts of an interview with the 17-year-old athlete Farid.
Question: What are your next big international championships? Are you all eyes on Rio 2016?
Answer: I am currently training to qualify for the IAAF World Indoor Championships which will be held in the US in March 2016, this is currently my top priority. Of course, I would love to represent Qatar in Rio, only the best of the best get to go to the Olympics, so of course I want to go.
Question: You are incredibly young Mariam, how do you handle the pressure of big tournaments?
Answer: It is tough sometimes but because I enjoy athletics so much, I do not let it get to me. I always try to stay focused on giving it my best shot and really trying my hardest. I look at more experienced athletes and I tell myself that it is only a matter of time and that I will be a champion one day.
Question: What does your training schedule look like at the moment?
Answer: I am in my final school year and have exams at the moment so my training schedule is slightly altered but I usually train for two and a half hours, six days a week. Last year I trained almost every day throughout the whole year with almost no time off.
Question: Who is your sport idol? And why?
Answer: I admire all great sportsmen and women especially in athletics, but I cannot think of a single one that I can call an idol. I often think of great moments in athletics, especially in the 400 metres hurdles which I specialise in.
Question: Tell us about your involvement with Doha Dash 2016, why should people participate?
Answer: There is no event like Doha Dash in Qatar! It is not just a wonderful sporting event, it is a community event that brings everyone together. I attended last year’s event and was really pleased with the overall organisation and the fact that anyone can take part, not just experienced runners, but also beginners and even children. This year, I am delighted to be a Doha Dash 2016 ambassador and take this opportunity to invite everyone to the event, which will be held at the Losail Circuit on February 9th. I am really looking forward to running with my family and friends.
Question: Finally, what would you say to Qatari athletes, particularly young ladies, looking up to you?
Answer: Believe in yourself and that you can make a difference. Successful female athletes can be amazing ambassadors for Qatar. We can show the world that there is no contradiction between our culture and religion and being active in sports, it is quite the opposite actually.
The Peninsula
