Qatari gymnast Jana Elkeky in action during a training session ahead of next week's FIG ART World Cup.
With a stellar line-up guaranteed at the Aspire Academy later this week, the Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF) is set to deliver another blockbuster event after the ticket sales for the 10th FIG Artistic World Cup received 'an overwhelming response' from sport fans in the country.
The high profile FIG event - now into its 10th year - will be held from March 22 to 25.
QGF President Ali Al Hitmi yesterday said there was a huge demand for tickets for this week’s event which was put on sales on various fronts.
“We have received a very good response of ticket sales,” the QGF President said.
“The gymnasts from all over the world are taking part in the event. It will be the best gymnastics spectacle in the country and we welcome fans to enjoy the fiesta. We are expecting them in big numbers.”
The organisers have received an unprecedented number of entries for this year’s competition with over 240 gymnasts from 30 countries confirming their participation.
Romanian giant Marian Dragulescu, winner of more than two dozen Olympic medals, and Australian 2010 CW Games delight Emily Little are among the superstars competing in the event.
Hungary’s 2012 Olympic champion Krisztian Berki, the pommel horse maestro, and Romanian veteran Catalina Ponor, who has featured in three Olympic Games, will also be part of the competition.
Qatari fans can cherish for compatriots Ahmed Al Dayani, Ahmed Mosa and Jana Elkeky who will also be seen in action during the gala.
Ali Hitmi said to ensure the smooth sales of tickets, the QGF has made various arrangements to avoid difficulty for fans.
“Our marketing committee has made extensive arrangements for the ticket sales. The tickets have been put to sale at various shopping centres. The tickets are also available online and are also up for grabs in all private universities,” said the QGF President before adding that various booths have also been set at the Aspire Academy for the purpose.
He added the heads of all major gymnastics bodies have been invited and hoped all the top officials will be in attendance during the four-day event.
Meanwhile, Director of the Tournament Abeer Al Buainain expressed satisfaction over the progress of tickets sales.
“We are targeting the largest possible audience and so far we have received a good response,” he said.
Al Buainain added a special quota has been set for people with special needs.
“This is a important group of the society and we will welcome them with open heart.”
Besides, the tournament director said invitations have also been extended to embassies in Qatar particularly to the ambassadors whose compatriots are taking part in the competition.
“This event is open to all. The QGF is aiming to promote this sport in Qatar and we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to flourish gymnastics in the country,” he added.
