UAE Athletes Compete at 3rd Asian Youth Games

Under the esteemed patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain, the third edition of the Asian Youth Games commenced this Wednesday at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre. Representing the UAE at the ceremony was H.H. Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the President of the UAE National Olympic Committee. The Games are set to run until 31 October 2025.

Upon arrival, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa welcomed H.H. Sheikh Mansoor and the leaders of the participating nations at Al Sakhir Palace, congratulating them on the start of the Games. Sheikh Mansoor received a warm welcome at Bahrain International Airport from H.H. Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, and the President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee.

During the opening events, Sheikh Mansoor was joined by UAE officials, including Dr. Ahmed Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and Vice President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, and Fahad Mohammed Salem bin Kardous Al Ameri, UAE Ambassador to Bahrain. Other distinguished officials present included Ghanem Mubarak Al Hajeri, Major General Dr. Mohammed Al Murr, and Abdullah Mubarak Al Mehairi.

The ceremony started with the national anthem of Bahrain and featured performances highlighting the nation’s rich cultural heritage. As the UAE delegation paraded behind their flag, it was carried by Ali Al Kaabi from the UAE national triathlon team and Sheikha Al Ketbi from the national taekwondo team. Upholding tradition, the UAE team also took part in the flag-raising ceremony prior to the commencement of events.

In his address, Sheikh Mansoor encouraged the UAE athletes to embrace the honor of representing their nation and striving for excellence. He reiterated the dedication of UAE leadership in supporting young athletes, ensuring that they have the guidance and resources necessary for success. These Games also serve as a precursor for the Youth Olympics in Dakar, Senegal, scheduled for next year.

In a first, this year’s opening ceremony took place indoors, hosting over 5,000 athletes from 45 nations competing in 26 sports. Sheikh Mansoor praised the organizing committee in Bahrain for their exceptional facilities and commitment to hosting the Games effectively.

The UAE’s contingent comprises 152 athletes, with 107 men and 45 women, competing in a variety of 19 sports, including handball, 3x3 basketball, equestrian, athletics, swimming, cycling, boxing, Muay Thai, e-sports, weightlifting, triathlon, taekwondo, table tennis, camel racing, badminton, golf, judo, jiu-jitsu, and mixed martial arts.

The competitions are already underway, with the UAE national handball team claiming a 35-27 victory against Kazakhstan in their second tournament match. UAE athletes in equestrian, athletics, Muay Thai, basketball, triathlon, taekwondo, golf, boxing, and MMA arrived on Tuesday and were greeted by members of the UAE National Olympic Committee, who wished them good luck.

The UAE’s participation in the Asian Youth Games highlights its commitment to cultivating young talent, promoting sporting excellence, and strengthening international sports relations. The unwavering support from leadership continues to motivate young athletes to aspire to achieve the highest standards and excel on a continental platform.