H.H. Jawaher Al Qasimi Inaugurates 7th Edition of the Arab Women Sports Tournament (AWST)
Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairperson of Sharjah Women’s Sports (SWS), officially inaugurated the eagerly awaited 7th edition of the Arab Women Sports Tournament (AWST) on Friday. The grand opening ceremony took place at Al Majaz Amphitheatre in Sharjah, commencing with the raising of flags representing 15 Arab countries, signifying the initiation of the largest women’s sports event in the Arab world.
With the participation of 560 athletes and 63 teams from 15 Arab countries, competing across 8 sports, the 7th edition of AWST is set to run until February 12.
The ceremony commenced with the raising of flags representing AWST, Arab National Olympic Committees, and the Arab League by Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmed Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Higher Steering Committee for AWST, Abdulaziz Al-Anazi, Secretary-General of the Arab National Olympic Committees, and Faisal Ghassal, member of the Oversight and Follow-up Committee at the Arab National Olympic Committees.
A colorful parade of delegations and women sports teams from participating Arab countries added vibrancy to the opening ceremony. The event showcased unity and sportsmanship as athletes proudly raised their national flags during the parade.
The athletes’ oath was led by Al Yazia Al Suwaidi, a distinguished basketball player at the Sharjah Women Sports Club and a member of the UAE Basketball National team. Following this, Raja Khalid Faisal, Chairman of the Referees Committee in the Shooting Union Federation, administered the referees’ oath.
Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher Al Qasimi addressed the audience and athletes, extending greetings to all participants. She emphasized the significance of true sportsmanship, respect for opponents, and the fostering of solidarity and cooperation among athletes. Sheikha Jawaher encouraged the sportswomen to embody human values and serve as ambassadors for their families, communities, and nations.
Reflecting on the story of Nagham Abu Samra, a Palestinian karate champion who tragically lost her life due to conflict, Sheikha Jawaher underscored the importance of aligning goals with ambitions. She expressed gratitude to the tournament organizing team, led by Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, for their efforts in hosting the seventh edition of AWST.
The opening ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Sheikh Khaled bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Higher Steering Committee for AWST; Sheikha Hayat bint Abdulaziz Al Khalifa, Chairwoman of the Equal Opportunities and Gender Equality Committee at the Arab National Olympic Committees; Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council; Hanan Al Mahmoud, Vice Chairman of the Higher Steering Committee for AWST; and Abdulaziz Al Anzi, Secretary-General of the Arab National Olympic Committees.
