A performance in progress at the QOC Sport Zone yesterday. PICTURES: Jayan Orma
By Ayman Adly/Staff Reporter
The entire country is gearing up for the National Sport Day celebrations at the individual, family and corporate levels, anticipating a day full of fun, recreation and entertainment.
Many shopping outlets in the country have reported high sales of sporting attire and related items such as trophies, sports kits and equipment in the run-up to the third edition of the event. Some of them have also received bulk orders from various private and public entities.
In terms of locations, the Doha Corniche is all set to be a prime venue of various sporting activities and competitions organised by both private and public organisations as part of the celebrations. For instance, families and individuals have expressed joy and satisfaction at the availability of multiple free activities and entertainment options - designed for people in different age groups and with various fitness levels - at the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Sport Zone, located near Doha’s General Post Office.
Aspire Zone, too, has been receiving an increasing number of families as well as school students of different ages, who practise football and other games in the ample open spaces. “The place is wonderful for all family members to practise their favourite games, especially in the morning in this good weather. The concept of a National Sport Day is really amazing and Qatar will remain a pioneer for introducing it,” said Margo, an expatriate from the UK.
In the Industrial Area, several workers said they have made plans to enjoy the day with their compatriots. “It is nice to have a game of cricket but we do not have access to a proper ground or club. So, we will just go to some of the vacant plots and prepare them accordingly for the game. We do so every weekend but the game will be played on a larger scale on National Sport Day,” said a Sri Lankan mechanic.
Some construction and service companies have lined up sports activities for their workers and employees. They have also distributed uniforms among the staff and booked sports clubs for the activities.
“My company is providing transportation to those willing to take part in the events and they have already given us sporting attire with the firm’s logo to use on Tuesday. Games include football, basketball and volleyball, besides running and other athletics events,” said Abdulhamid, an Arab foreman.
Many families and bachelors have plans to celebrate the occasion on the outskirts of Doha, mainly on the beaches of Al Khor, Al Wakrah, Sealine and Dukhan.
“It is a good opportunity to go with our community members and arrange our own games on a day assigned to sports by the State. The beach will be the perfect place to enjoy the day for us,” said Shadi, a Lebanese expatriate.
According to the events calendar on the QOC website, more than 80 sports events are being organised in Qatar in the April 2013-March 2014 period. Some 40 of these are international events, 11 are meant for Asian countries, eight for Arab nations and another eight for GCC states. Besides, 11 local championships have been organised as well as three sports conferences.
Special emphasis is being laid on promoting sports as a means of leading a healthy life. Further, sports tourism is expected to increase significantly in the country, according to officials in the hotel industry.