In a historic achievement for Bahrain, Winfred Yavi won the gold medal in the women’s 3000m steeplechase at the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking Bahrain’s first-ever Olympic gold and breaking the Olympic record with a time of 8:52.76 minutes.
His Highness Shaikh Khaled bin Hamad Al Khalifa celebrated Yavi’s victory as a defining moment for Bahrain. He conveyed his honor in witnessing such an achievement and extended his congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, and the Prime Minister. Yavi’s win transcended national boundaries as she became the first Arab athlete to win a track and field medal at the Olympics, elevating the sporting status of Bahrain and the entire Arab region.
The Media Office of His Highness Shaikh Khaled described this victory as a “golden moment” for Bahrain, emphasizing that Yavi’s dedication and skill have inspired future generations of Bahraini athletes. Yavi’s remarkable performance was closely followed by a distinguished Bahraini delegation, including Shaikh Khaled, the First Deputy President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, the President of the General Sports Authority, and the Bahrain Olympic Committee, as well as His Highness Shaikh Salman bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, the Deputy President of the General Sports Authority, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa, the Deputy President of the Olympic Committee, and several other officials.
“… Yavi excelled and delivered an exceptional performance that deserves the name of Bahrain..”
Shaikh Khaled, the First Deputy President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, the President of the General Sports Authority
The excitement and support from the Bahraini delegation were palpable, celebrating the nation’s first medal of the 2024 Paris Olympics and its fifth Olympic medal overall, which includes two golds and two silvers. His Highness Shaikh Khaled expressed his deepest congratulations and blessings to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs, and the Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports.
In a statement following Yavi’s win, Shaikh Khaled expressed immense joy: “Our efforts have culminated into the achievement of the first Olympic medal in Paris … Yavi excelled and delivered an exceptional performance that deserves the name of Bahrain, and expresses the spirit of persistence and strong will. Indeed, this would not have happened without great support provided by the wise leadership, may God protect and guide them, and continuous efforts of all members of the delegation representing Bahrain. We are proud of this achievement, which marks the start of more success in the future.”
Shaikh Khaled also emphasized Bahrain’s ongoing commitment to sports: “We are committed to investing in our sports and continuing to support our athletes at the highest levels, and what Yavi has achieved today is a result of this support and attention given by the leadership to sports and athletes.” He noted that the achievement “is evidence of our athletes’ ability to compete at the highest levels and bring home global success,” and expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success.
The victory is seen as a significant step forward for Bahraini sports on the international stage, serving as a catalyst for broader horizons and a brighter future. Shaikh Khaled highlighted that this medal would inspire athletes across different disciplines, including track and field, wrestling, and weightlifting, to strive for excellence in future Olympic competitions.
Looking ahead, Bahrain’s participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics continues with athlete Salwa Eid, who will compete in the semi-finals of the women’s 400 meters race. Salwa, who is aiming to reach the finals, has achieved a personal best time of 48.14 seconds and a season best of 49.66 seconds. In the first round of qualifications, she finished first in her group with a time of 49.91 seconds. The continuation of Bahrain’s Olympic journey reflects the nation’s growing prowess and ambition in international athletics.
Overall, Yavi’s gold medal has not only brought unprecedented glory to Bahrain but also set a benchmark for future Bahraini athletes. It represents a significant milestone in Bahrain’s Olympic history and serves as a beacon of inspiration for athletes across the nation. The enthusiasm and support from the Bahraini delegation reflect a broader commitment to fostering a competitive sports culture in Bahrain, with hopes of continued success in upcoming international athletic events.
