What started as a simple effort to bring Sri Lankans together through sport has evolved into one of the community’s most anticipated annual gatherings in Qatar.
The Mahanama College Old Boys’ Association (OBA) Qatar Chapter recently staged the third season of the Golden Bowling Championship (GBC) in Doha, drawing strong participation from players, families, and supporters.
Held on June 19 at the Qatar Bowling Federation, the tournament drew strong participation from Sri Lankan expatriates and their families, underscoring its reputation as a key community sporting event in Qatar.
This year’s edition featured both team and individual competitions, with 30 OBA and alumni teams battling for honours across the Cup, Plate, Bowl, and Shield categories. The event also included ladies’ and mixed-team competitions, alongside more than 40 individual contestants.
Around 250 attendees, including players, family members, community representatives, and sponsors, filled the venue, creating an atmosphere marked by friendly rivalry, enthusiasm, and community spirit.
Imran Anver, general secretary of Mahanama College OBA Qatar Chapter, told Gulf Times that the championship was launched with a simple objective: to bring the Sri Lankan community together through healthy competition and fellowship.
“Over three seasons, we’ve grown in participation, structure, and inclusivity, opening the floor to men, women, and children,” Anver said.
He noted that bowling has provided an inclusive platform that differs from traditionally male-dominated sports such as cricket and football, with women actively participating and earning recognition through the years.
The tournament’s growing popularity was evident this season, with registrations closing ahead of schedule because of strong community interest, according to Anver.
He attributed the growth to increasing awareness of the benefits of sport and recreation, stronger community engagement, and the emergence of a wider bowling culture among expatriate groups in Qatar.
“It’s become a meaningful community touchpoint. GBC has evolved into a family reunion where children and relatives come to cheer on competing parents and family members,” Anver added.
He pointed out that consistent efforts to maintain high standards in organisation and communication have also contributed to the tournament’s expanding reach and participation.
More than just a sporting event, Anver said the championship stresses the community’s growing appreciation for sports, recreation, and social engagement in Qatar.
“Compared to just a few years ago, the number of sports and recreational events within the community has multiplied,” he said. “These activities do more than entertain; they support mental wellbeing and bring people together.”
He credited community organisations, volunteers, and sponsors for helping sustain such initiatives, noting that they require considerable planning and support.
For organisers, however, the tournament’s success is measured by more than trophies and medals.
“We told participants from day one that GBC isn’t just about collecting trophies, but about collecting memories and getting to know your community better,” Anver said.
He hopes that the championship will inspire other community organisations to launch similar initiatives, creating lasting benefits that extend beyond a single sporting event.
“As part of Qatar’s workforce, it’s our way of actively contributing to the country we call our second home, supporting its vision and helping position Qatar as a great place to live and work,” he added.
The evening concluded with an awards ceremony recognising outstanding performers across all categories, while celebrating the camaraderie, sportsmanship, and sense of belonging that have become hallmarks of GBC.