The event was attended by Qatar Olympic Committee secretary general Dr Thani bin Abdulrahman al-Kuwari.
More than 200 contestants showed interest in taking part in the eight-day event, sponsored by Ooredoo, Abdullah Abdulghani & Brothers, Ali Bin Ali Watches and Jewellery, and Al Kass TV.
There will be six different events in pistol, rifle, shotgun and archery. All the participants have been divided into professional and amateur categories. Both men and women have to compete together. The participant who collects maximum points will be awarded a car in both the categories.
Every day, events will start at 9.30pm and continue till 1.30am. The QSAA has made elaborate arrangements for families and kids so that the event is not only competitive but also memorable.
QSAA president and organising committee chairman Ali Mohamed al-Kuwari said he is pleased with the great support the event has received under the patronage of Qatar Olympic Committee chairman HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani.
“This is the first of its kind event in Qatar and we are very delighted with the response by the participants. We have had extensive preparations on the technical and managerial aspects of the event. Also we provided 10 days of training to all those who have registered for the event. We hope to have a challenging event for all,” added Kuwari.
“We also wish to express our gratitude to the QOC, sponsors Ooredoo, Al Kass TV, Abdullah Abdulghani & Brothers and Ali Bin Ali Watches and Jewellery for supporting the unique event.”
Ooredoo’s PR and Corporate Communications director Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi said, “We’re delighted to help support such a family-friendly event during the holy month and wish all the competitors the best of luck. Apart from the exciting competition, families can enjoy a host of activities and food options, and we encourage everyone to go along and #ShareAMoment.”
Tournament director Majid al-Nuaimi said, “The popularity of the first event has exceeded our expectations. The media built up a good hype and it reaches not only other Gulf countries but also many Arab world nations.
“The exciting event has attracted many of the national team shooters and archers, which promises the competition to be high level. We’re pleased with the number of entries and hopefully, we’ll continue to make it better in coming years.”