MINISTERS, government officials and public and private sector employees took part in a range of activities to celebrate the annual Bahrain Sports Day.
Hundreds of people, including MPs and Shura Council members, gathered at walkways, public gardens and parks to mark the seventh edition of the national event, with ministries, institutions and state departments granting a half work day to allow employees to engage in sports activities.
At the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International and Energy Studies (Derasat), medical examinations, awareness lectures, a review of health behaviours in addition to aerobics and sports competitions were organised for the employees.
The second edition of the GDN Media Boules Up Challenge Cup was held yesterday at the Park Fitness Circuit opposite National Charter Highway. Managing Editor Stanley Szecowka took home the award as he powered his way to victory against court reporter Noor Zahra in a closely fought final.
Meanwhile, Bahrain Polytechnic’s academic and administrative staff celebrated the day by taking part in physical activities while employees at the Transportation and Telecommunications Ministry commenced the day with warm-up exercises followed by walking and a cycling competition in the backyard of the ministry’s building.
Staff from the Industry and Commerce Ministry took part in activities led by minister Abdullah Fakhro, to promote health and physical awareness.
The Prime Minister’s Office held an event to mark the day. Director-General of the PMO Hamad bin Yaqoob Al Mahmeed affirmed that the day highlighted the importance of ‘embracing a culture of active and healthy lifestyle, which contributes to further strengthening public health’.
Gulf Air Group (GFG) marked the day with its subsidiaries Bahrain Airport Company, Gulf Air, and Gulf Aviation Academy and Airport Police. GFG hosted a range of activities at its headquarters, including football, basketball, tug of war, table tennis, and a sports session.
The Oil and Gas Holding Company (nogaholding) and its portfolio companies also hosted walkathons and other activities in line with the kingdom’s efforts to promote public health and an active lifestyle. Employees also participated in a Padel tournament, football and volleyball matches and fitness classes.
The Jaffari Endowments Directorate commemorated the day at Water Garden in the presence of chairman Yousif Al Saleh while the Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) organised a series of sporting events at Diyar Al Muharraq.
“This day is an occasion in which the importance of continuous exercise is emphasised in order to maintain sound health of mind and body,” said RHF secretary general Dr Mustafa Al Sayed. “The positive results of sports are reflected in the lives of individuals.”
A number of schools joined the celebration, including Al Noor International School where around 5,000 students took part in a special ceremony at its Sitra campus. Children also took part in a skit on sports and health, quiz and other competitions.
reem@gdnmedia.bh
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