Bahraini and expatriate athletes from across the kingdom are excited about Bahrain Sports Day.
u Award-winning martial artist Ali Monfaradi said: “Whether you practice sports or not, it’s a monumental day for every person. It’s a day that celebrates not only the Bahraini athletes but also how far Bahraini sports has come on the international scene. As an athlete, myself I’m doubly thrilled to be celebrating this day and can’t wait for many more Bahrain Sports Days to come.”
u Kirsty Coventry, an Olympic gold medalist swimmer from Zimbabwe, said the annual event provides an ideal opportunity for young men and women to engage in different activities and stay healthy. “Don’t undersell yourself, set your sights high,” she added. “There is always a glass ceiling to be broken … and take other young women with you!”
u Similar views were shared by another Olympic gold medalist, swimmer Dmitriy Balandin, from Kazakhstan, who said: “Sports are a great opportunity for kids to dream. When I was young, I watched other athletes win at the Olympics and it made me dream of one day becoming a champion too. Work hard, believe in your dreams, and just see what can be achieved!”
u Vanja Udovicic, a former water polo player and Olympic medalist from Serbia, said it’s important to encourage more young people to enter a world of sporting fun.
“Sports are about fair play and equal rights for everyone. Support and encourage young people to participate. It improves their health and mental strength.”