Bahrain prepares for Gymnasiade

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: hussainm@newsobahrain.com

Bahrain is gearing up to host the largest international school sports event in its history, the ISF Gymnasiade 2024, running from October 23 to 31. This event will bring together over 100 nations to compete across 26 sports, including athletics, gymnastics, and wrestling, transforming the kingdom into a global stage for young athletes.

Yesterday’s press conference at the Bahrain National Stadium marked a significant moment, as top officials addressed the media, emphasizing the importance of this event for Bahrain’s sporting and educational landscape.

Speaking exclusively to TDT, Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education, underlined the scope of the event, saying: “This is more than just a sporting event; it’s a celebration of youth, education, and sportsmanship. Hosting the ISF Gymnasiade reinforces Bahrain’s commitment to promoting not only sports but the development of young minds through education. We hope to birth a potential Olympic Champion as Olympic champions have come out of competitions like these in the past.”

Ali Isa Ishaqi also took the stage to stress Bahrain’s readiness to host the Gymnasiade, highlighting that Bahrain International Circuit will be among the key venues. He remarked, “We’re proud to host such a prestigious event in Bahrain.

This is an opportunity to show the heart of Bahrain’s sporting culture.” Both officials expressed deep gratitude to His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, acknowledging his pivotal role in making the event possible.

“Without Sheikh Khalid’s vision and unwavering support, this monumental achievement for Bahrain would not have been possible,” Dr. Juma noted. “His leadership and commitment to building young talent have paved the way for Bahrain to be recognized on the world stage as a host of major sporting events.”

The Gymnasiade 2024 promises a week filled with action-packed competitions. Athletes will compete in events like archery, para-athletics, beach volleyball, fencing, and taekwondo, with thousands of young talents vying for medals across multiple venues.

The Opening Ceremony is set for October 24, with the event running through to the Closing Ceremony on October 30. A detailed competition schedule ensures a packed week of excitement, from rhythmic gymnastics to para-swimming, and more.

A highlight of the event will be the designated Cultural Day on October 27, allowing athletes and attendees to explore Bahrain’s rich heritage. Through the Explore Bahrain initiative, international visitors will have a chance to immerse themselves in the kingdom’s culture. Additional programs like Family & Friends and the Observer Program will further enhance the overall experience.

Global audiences will also have the opportunity to tune in, with ISF TV providing live streaming coverage of the event. From high-speed action in boxing to elegant routines in gymnastics artistic, the ISF Gymnasiade 2024 promises to captivate viewers worldwide.

As Bahrain eagerly awaits the event, Ishaqi concluded yesterday’s conference with a clear message: “This is more than just a moment for Bahrain; it’s a pivotal milestone in our journey to becoming a beacon for sports in the region. We are ready to make history