Doha: HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee for the 2015 World Men’s Handball Championship, to be hosted by Qatar early in 2015, yesterday inaugurated the tournament’s mascot bearing the name “Fahd”, a child clad in Qatar’s national dress .
The elegant inauguration ceremony, held at the World Handball Cup  2015 area at the Doha Corniche to coincide with events of Qatar National Sport Day, was attended by President of the International Handball Federation Dr Hassan Mustafa, Deputy Chairman of the Organising Committee and Chairman of Qatar Handball Association Ahmed al-Shaabi and Executive Director of the Organising Committee Dr Thani al-Kuwari in the presence of a large number of people who enjoyed the numerous activities and thrilling surprises prepared by the organising committee to promote the global event .
The inauguration ceremony began with the arrival of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani at the Mascot area amid beats of drums in line with the Qatari traditions in organising sporting events .
Upon arrival, HE Sheikh Joaan, accompanied by the guests, headed towards the podium.  Then appeared “Fahd”, a Qatari child clad in traditional dress. “Fahd” then moved  towards the podium where he was received by HE Sheikh Joan and the mascot Fahd was announced.
The name, inspired by Qatari heritage, has many meanings that indicate speed, fierceness and strength as well as calmness when it is required.  
Afterwards “Fahd” announced the challenge, stressing that he will record his first goal. He chose HE Sheikh Joaan to be the goalkeeper. “Fahd” succeeded in the challenge and put the ball as the audience cheered.
The inauguration ceremony was also attended by the Qatari team which won the Asian Handball Championship which was held recently in Bahrain. Captain of the team Yousuf al-Moallim dedicated the cup to HE Sheikh Joaan.
HE Sheikh Joaan greeted all the members of the team and the technical and management staff.
The Organizing Committee for the 2015 World Cup in Qatar Handball has allocated four halls to host the event from January 17 to February 1, 2015.