The event announcing the candidacy of Major General Dahlan Al Hamad, president of the Athletics Federation, drew a large turnout of Qatari athletics champions from past years who left a big mark at the Olympic and Asian Games and in all previous events. Their presence confirmed support for his candidacy and their backing for a candidate who has always supported the careers of past and present champions. Many of the champions present, such as assistant secretary general Mohammed Suleiman, expressed their hopes for Al Hamad’s success in his upcoming election campaign, especially given what he has contributed to the Asian continent over the years. Federation member Abdulhakim Al Omari said that continental athletics stands as a witness to what Al Hamad has achieved over the past period, and that support for the continent would therefore be substantial should he win again. Abdulrahman Mubarak, the long jump champion, national record holder and federation member, expressed his happiness and hopes for Al Hamad’s success in his upcoming election campaign given his important role in continental athletics. Sultan Al Dosari, one of the most prominent sprint champions, spoke of his hope for great success, while Saad Miftah felt that Al Hamad was capable of providing all the resources needed to make continental athletics a success, especially on the Asian stage.
