Dr Abdulrahman Sadiq Askar, CEO of the General Sports Authority and Vice Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Organising the International School Games’ Bahrain 2024’, underscored the uniqueness of this tournament. With its unprecedented scale, the event is set to become a significant milestone in the Kingdom of Bahrain’s history. More than 5,000 male and female students from 70 countries will compete across 26 different sports, making it a truly global event.
In his statement during the press conference led by His Excellency Dr Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education and Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the tournament, alongside Mr Ali Isa Ishaqi, Chairman of the Executive Committee of the game, Dr Askar expressed appreciation for the considerable support provided by His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee. This significant support from His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa enhances the Kingdom of Bahrain’s ability to host this prestigious international sporting event, which will take place under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa from 23 to 31 October 2024.
Dr Askar emphasized that the International School Games’ Bahrain 2024′ is not just a sporting event, but a strategic initiative that aligns with the vision of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad. This alignment with Bahrain’s sports vision is a testament to the strategic importance of the event. The event aims to discover and nurture sports talents, introduce a new generation of athletes through the ‘Golden Generation’ initiative, and ensure they are ready to join clubs and national teams. This strategic alignment is a testament to the purpose and vision behind the event, which has already begun to bear fruit in the recent performance of the Kingdom’s sports teams.
The CEO of the General Sports Authority reiterated the commitment to adhering to His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad’s directives by organizing the International School Games’ Bahrain 2024′ according to the highest professional standards. This commitment is a testament to the confidence and assurance in the organization of the event, complementing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s stellar reputation for hosting major sporting events. He further praised the significant role of the various committees preparing for the tournament, explaining that the participation of 5,651 students from 80 school unions globally signals the expected success of this event.
Dr Askar noted that Bahrain has become a preferred destination for international sporting events thanks to continuous efforts in sports development. He confirmed that all logistical preparations are proceeding as planned to ensure the readiness of facilities, guaranteeing the tournament’s presentation in the best possible manner that upholds Bahrain’s reputation.
Moreover, he touched on the impact of hosting this tournament on strengthening sports tourism within Bahrain. This event marks a crucial step towards attracting more major international sports events in the future, contributing to the growth of the tourism sector and increasing its contribution to the Kingdom’s GDP.
Concluding his statement, Dr Abdulrahman Askar called upon all committees and organisers to maintain their efforts throughout the remaining preparation period, ensuring the session’s success and presenting Bahrain in its best light. He hoped the event would succeed and extended his best wishes to all involved.
