DOHA: Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF) will host the 9th Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships (MAG & WAG) at the iconic Aspire Dome from June 15-18.
This will be second time after 2008 that Doha will be hosting the Asian Championships.
The QGF president and head of the Local Organising Committee said that preparations are in full swing as Doha is all set to host this mega Asian event.
“The LOC has been working hard to make this competition successful,” said QGF president and LOC head Ali Al Hitmi.
A total of 81 male and 56 female gymnasts have registered for this year’s edition while Hong Kong and Kazakhstan have already landed in the Qatari capital to take part in the competition.
Excerpts:
What’s the importance of this tournament?
Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championship will be another opportunity to show to the world what Qatar is capable of as a top-notch hosts of major international sports competitions. Like in the past, as organisers, we always want to excel. This time too, we will produce an exceptional competition. Such tournaments also helps us with an opportunity to present our culture to the world and allow them to learn about our heritage.
Tell us about the preparations done so far by QGF.
The preparations are going in the best possible way. The LOC has worked hard in the last couple of months to ensure Qatar hosts yet another world-class event. The gymnasium hall at the Aspire Dome has been set to welcome the top continental gymnasts. Hosting this event in Doha will be another opportunity to showcase Qatar’s exceptional and unparalleled sports infrastructure.
How many countries are participating?
A total of 21 countries have been officially registered for the championship. It will be one of the most competitive Asian Championships in recent years. Total number of participants in this edition will have 81 male and 56 female gymnasts including world and Asian champions.
How many Qatari gymnasts will participate?
Qatar has registered Rakan Al Harith and Duha Al Habshi for the tournament. QGF has fine-tuned Qatari gymnasts’ preparation at the multiple training camps while participating in international events have boosted their confidence ahead of the Asian Championships. The competition is a tough one and it’ll be an opportunity for them to compete with the best.
