NSD 'a much-needed break' for workers, bachelors

The National Sport Day (NSD) celebrations not only providedan opportunity for people to burn calories but also served as “a much-neededbreak” for thousands of 'single' workers and bachelors.

Walking in groups, workers from various labour camps acrossthe Qatartrooped to the Corniche to spend the holiday with their colleagues and friendsgoing from one place to another.

The whole stretch on Tuesday was packed with a large numberof people since early morning, spilling over to nearby Souq Waqif and the Museum of Islamic Art Park.

“There is no need to exercise today because we already sweata lot during the weekdays,” said Mark Pamatong, a Filipino worker. He wasjoined by a number of Indians and Nepalis.

Pamatong said they skipped their regular chats with theirfamilies at least for today to find time to bond and visit some places.

The group, who brought some bread and tea, stopped at anarea where they could see the dhows, the Dohaskyline and museum where Ooredoo was holding NSD events.

“We love to stay in these places to relax and enjoy theweather. We have to make most out of it before summer sets in,” stressedPamatong, who refuses to go to the park.

“We terribly missed our families and to see other childrenplaying in those playgrounds just makes things more painful for us,” he added.“Somehow, we are thankful to have a holiday even just for a day.”

From 4pm, the number of bachelors on the Corniche started todecrease. Pamatong said they have to leave and reach their accommodationsbefore 7pm.

“We have to wake up early and work hard again for ourfamilies and children,” he added, as he put his headset on.