H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, participating in National Sport Day activities at Education City and Msheireb.
H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation (QF), joined thousands of participants from around the country to celebrate National Sport Day (NSD) at Education City, yesterday.
Designed to be enjoyed by the whole community, a series of activities were held by QF at four different venues of the Education City to inspire healthy living and enjoyment of sport.
The activities were also attended by H E Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani, Vice-Chairperson and CEO of Qatar Foundation.
The NSD activities at QF officially began with H H Sheikha Moza flagging off the Qatar Cyclists Tour, which was joined by hundreds of all ages. H H Sheikha Moza and H E Sheikha Hind also participated in some events and watched participants enjoy activities.
Some of Qatar’s top names in sport also joined QF’s NSD celebrations, including high-jumper Mutaz Barshim, footballer Abdulkarim Hassan, swimmer Nada Arakji, hurdler Mariam Farid and taekwondo athlete Kaltham Al Mutawa.
“At QF, our aim is to effect positive change in society, and we believe this can be done through education, sharing knowledge, and providing inclusive opportunities for everyone. This includes the chance to enjoy sport and physical activity, and to join together as a community in building a healthier, more active nation,” said Machaille Al Naimi, President of Community Development, QF.
“Our National Sport Day celebrations reflect this commitment. Open to everyone, our activities aim to foster social engagement while showcasing the opportunities within Education City that people of all ages, cultures, backgrounds, abilities, and interests – can enjoy.
“We are delighted to see how the community of Qatar have again got into the National Sport Day spirit at QF, and we hope that what they have experienced and enjoyed today will encourage them to make our activities and programs that foster healthy, active lifestyles a regular part of their lives,” said Al Naimi.
Participants at QF’s NSD celebrations had the chance to race through an obstacle course, discover the health benefits of yoga, experience a full-body workout with top US gym Dogpound, or get a taste of fresh and locally-grown produce during.
Mariam, the young Qatari hurdler and student at QF partner university Northwestern University in Qatar, said, “It is great to be at Education City, not only as an athlete but also as a student. “QF is part of my daily life, and it is an honor to be here today. We have huge opportunities and facilities here, and everyone is happy to be part of today’s activities. Sport is a lifestyle for everyone in Qatar, especially for women who include it within their daily routines, and this reflects the status of sport in Qatar and the way it has truly become a lifestyle,” she added.
Bob Kelly from Lincoln, Nebraska said, who participated in QF’s NSD activities with his wife and two children said, “I think more countries should try this. It gets people out doing physical activity. I would compare Qatar’s NSD to July 4 in America, a day when everyone goes out to the beach or the mountains.”
Visitors to Education City yesterday also had a chance to explore Torba Farmers Market, at the Ceremonial Court, which offered a variety of organically-grown produce, locally-prepared food and beverages.
