DOHA: The QSAA Heir Apparent Cup will begin today at Losail Shooting Range.
Around 150 local shooters and archers will take part in the event, organised by Qatar Shooting and Archery Association (QSAA), which will conclude on February 8.
The championship will start with the skeet event, with the pre-event training today in the men’s category, for both seniors and juniors, starting at 2.30 pm.
The championships, part of the QSAA calendar, will serve as an ideal preparation for the upcoming Qatar Open, to be held at the same venue from February 12.
QSAA Secretary-General Abdulla Ali Al Mutawa Al Hammadi (pictured) said new ISSF rules will be enforced during the championships.
“QSAA has conducted a few clinics for the shooters to get use to the new rules,” said the QSAA official.
“Our shooters are familiar with the rules and we hope to have thrilling competitions in various events in the rifle, pistol and shotgun categories for men, women and junior participants,” Hammadi said.
Ace shooter and car rally hero Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah, a 2012 Olympic Games bronze medal winner in shooting, will not be taking part in the Heir Apparent Cup, informed the QSAA official.
Last week, Nasser finished third in the challenging Dakar Rally. He is likely to take part in Qatar Open next month.
The archery competition consists of 70 metres Recurve for women. Men will compete in the 70 metres Recurve and 50 metres Compound events. The action will begin on January 25 with the women’s Recurve qualification rounds.
Next month, QSAA will conduct an international course for referees and judges. The four-day course will begin on February 7. Apart from local officials, officials from Iran, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia are expected to attend the course.
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