Major General Dahlan Jumaan Al Hamad, president of the Qatar and Asian federations and IAAF vice-president, congratulated gold medallist Mohammed Al Garni on winning the 1500m, praising his effort and the outstanding performance he produced against the rest of Asia’s runners, resolutely and firmly securing first place. He said: “We thank God for His blessings and grace upon us. We have proven that in athletics, we deliver what we promise, and we hope Al Garni’s gold is the first of many. As always, we trust the ability of our men to handle difficult tasks – nothing is impossible for them, and we wish them every success, for they are equal to the determination and resolve required.”
He added that these achievements and gains for Qatar’s promising champions at the continental gathering reflect the prestigious standing Qatari athletics continues to hold at every level, continentally and internationally, saying: “Without doubt, we owe these achievements first to success granted by Almighty God, then to the support of HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the country and leader of our march, as well as to the guidance and backing of HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Qatar Olympic Committee, which I believe gave us a strong moral boost as we headed to China to take on the continental challenge.” He also praised the high performance and spirit shown by our champions in the 400m through rising star Abdalelah Haroun, and by Femi and Samuel in the 100m, where our men qualified for the finals with minimal effort, wishing them success in tonight’s challenges to confirm their worth and continue collecting medals. He described Al Garni’s medal as an auspicious start for the rest of the champions to continue the path of excellence and leadership for athletics on the Asian stage, affirming that the future would be bright, God willing.
In light of the full patronage and support we enjoy from our wise leadership, Al Hamad concluded his remarks by pledging to everyone that Qatar’s athletics flag would remain held high, honouring our beloved homeland Qatar and all its loyal citizens at continental and international gatherings, repeating his wishes for success for our champions in honouring their country at this great continental event, from the heart of the land of the Chinese dragon.
