By Sports Reporter/Doha
The world’s best swimmers will not be the only ones creating the action at this year’s 12th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) as details of FINA Market Street are unveiled.
The interactive fan zone is set to provide thrilling entertainment for all ages throughout the duration of the competition, and is absolutely free to attend.
Located at the public entrance of the Hamad Aquatic Centre in Doha, the latest addition to this world class sporting event will give fans from all over the world a chance to soak up the unique atmosphere of the Championships from December 3 to 7.
Centred around the main stage, activities in the fan zone will include live performances from traditional and contemporary artists in the region, appearances from the stars of the World Championships and chances for fans to grab a high-five and photo with Bahoor—the Arabian seahorse and Official Mascot. Crowd favourites such as henna tattoos, face painting and camel rides will also be on offer alongside the always-entertaining Zorb Balls which give participants the feeling of walking on water.
Visitors will be treated to a taste of Qatar’s rich heritage through an Arabian-themed Chill Out and Food & Beverage Zone which will serve a variety of international and Arabic cuisine as well as showcase traditional Arabic entertainment.
Speaking ahead of the FINA Market Street opening for the 12th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m), Khalil al-Jaber, President of Qatar Swimming Association and Executive Director of Doha 2014, said: “As well as hosting a world-class event and supporting the athletes that have trained hard all year to get to this point, one of the most important elements of any live sporting event is to create a unique experience for spectators.
“Through FINA Market Street, the community will have the chance to enjoy all of the action of the pool in a relaxed and fun environment with their friends and family, and create special memories thanks to the sport of swimming. With the support of fans, events like these wouldn’t be possible and we look forward to welcoming them all to Hamad Aquatic Centre.”
The lively Market Street will be open daily from 9 AM until 45 minutes after the last race during the five-day event.
In just one week, Doha will open its doors to 1,100 of the world’s best athletes from 171 countries.
Swimmers confirmed to compete for World Championship glory include US Olympic Gold medallist Ryan Lochte, who took home six gold medals at the last Championships in 2012 and Olympic champions, Chad Le Clos (RSA), Breeja Larson (USA), Oussama Mellouli (TUN), Daniel Gyurta (HUN) and Rta Meilutyt (LIT).
Tickets to the 12th FINA World Swimming Championships (25m) are available to purchase at Virgin Megastores or online at tickets.virginmegastores.qa starting at QR10. Morning heats start at 9.30am, with the fireworks of the finals kicking off at 6.00pm.
Fans are ready to welcome swimming stars back to Doha for the World Championships. Picture: Alexandra Panagiotidou
