In a grand finale at the Gulf Youth Games, the Bahraini delegation emerged with a triumphant tally of 77 medals, including 25 golds. The event, which ran from April 16th to April 30th, saw over 3,500 athletes from all Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
Bahrain’s Impressive Medal Haul
Bahrain’s national teams amassed a total of 77 medals, including 25 gold, 20 silver, and 32 bronze, marking a successful campaign at the Gulf Youth Games.
Bahrain’s Swimmers Dazzle
The Bahraini swimmers dazzled on the final day of competition at the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club. The team concluded their events with three gold medals in the 400-meter freestyle, 50-meter butterfly, and 100-meter freestyle. Additionally, they earned two silver medals in the 50-meter butterfly and 200-meter backstroke and a bronze in the 400-meter freestyle.
Highlighting individual performances, Amani Al-Obaidli captured gold in the 50-meter freestyle with a swift 26:50 seconds finish, while Aya Adel bin Rajab added a silver with a time of 28:50 seconds in the same event. Over the course of the games, the swimming team amassed an impressive total of 17 medals: 9 gold, 3 silver, and 5 bronze, thus marking the swimming pools of the UAE as a testament to Bahraini prowess.
Fencing Team Shines
In fencing, both the male and female teams excelled in the saber and epee competitions, securing three bronze medals on the last day. The women’s saber team, comprising Nour Firas Al-Jowder, Sumaya Mohammed Buhaza, and Zainab Ahmed Al-Majed, clinched bronze after fierce semifinal bouts. Their male counterparts in the saber competition, Abdul Rahman Tariq Shamal, Hussein Naeem Karmastji, and Omar Abdullah Bu Khalifa, mirrored this achievement with a bronze of their own.
The Bahraini delegation’s exemplary performance underscores their dominance and strategic preparation for the games, showcasing the athletes’ commitment and the effective support from the Bahrain Olympic Committee.
Reflecting on the achievements, Fajr Jassim, the Director of the Bahraini delegation, lauded the efforts of all involved, emphasizing the unified support from the Bahrain Olympic Committee which played a crucial role in facilitating the athletes’ success, enhancing Bahrain’s standing in international sports.
This comprehensive display of skill and sportsmanship at the Gulf Youth Games not only highlights Bahrain’s athletic talent but also sets a high standard for future competitions, promising continued success on the international stage.
From the Closing Ceremony
The first Gulf Youth Games culminated in a grand closing ceremony last night at the Marriott Hotel in Dubai. The event was attended by Mr. Fares Al Mutawa, Secretary General of the UAE Olympic Committee, along with directors from all the Gulf delegations.
During the ceremony, Mr. Al Mutawa extended heartfelt gratitude to the athletes, coaches, officials, and administrators for their contributions towards the success of the games. He commended the spirit of competition and collaboration which highlighted the event as a remarkable beginning for regional sports.
“The Gulf assemblies are essential for bolstering the bonds among GCC countries. They create a unified platform for our youth, integrating them into a competitive yet familiar environment that fosters growth and experience,” Mr. Al Mutawa remarked. He expressed appreciation for the parents’ support, which motivated the athletes to represent their nations commendably.
The closing event featured the exchange of commemorative gifts and plaques, with Fajr Jassim, Director of the Bahrain delegation and a member of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, receiving a model of the tournament’s torch. Ms Jassim lauded the UAE Olympic Committee and the Supreme Organizing Committee for their exceptional organization and hospitality that began from the very first day.
