Post by : Bianca
Haleem
The United Arab Emirates showcased an extraordinary performance at the 22nd Asian U20 Athletics Championships held in Hong Kong, clinching two prestigious gold medals in both men's and women's 400-meter finals, thereby solidifying its stature in the realm of athletics across Asia.
With these latest victories, the UAE's overall medal tally has risen to three, following a bronze performance by Salma Haitham Al Marri in the women's hammer throw earlier in the championship, which continues until June 1.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the men's 400-meter final, where Sulaiman Abdulrahman achieved a groundbreaking win with a championship-record time of 44.85 seconds. This exceptional performance secured him first place while also setting a new personal best and breaking previous championship records.
Abdulrahman became the first participant in the history of the Asian U20 Athletics Championships to break the 45-second mark in the men's 400 meters, surpassing the former championship record of 45.53 seconds that was previously set by China’s Aiyilikesi’ er Wumai’er in 2024.
The UAE's second gold medal was earned by Aminat Qamar Al-Din, who impressed in the women's 400-meter final by finishing in 52.72 seconds, achieving a personal best and reinforcing the UAE's athletic talent on the continental platform.
The UAE Athletics Federation commended Abdulrahman’s record-setting achievement as one of the highlights of the championship. His victory not only contributed to the medal tally but also affirmed his place in the annals of Asian junior athletics history.
Major General Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al Mur, President of the UAE Athletics Federation, lauded the athletes for their accomplishments, noting that the two golds represent the nation's ongoing investment in the development of sports and athlete preparedness.
He emphasized that these results reflect the steadfast support from the UAE leadership towards the sporting sector, alongside the endeavors of the National Olympic Committee and the Ministry of Sports to nurture future elite athletes.
Al Mur reiterated that this success in Hong Kong embodies the federation's long-term vision to cultivate young talent and foster champions equipped to compete at the highest international levels.
As the championship continues, the UAE team aims to capitalize on this success and further elevate its medal count, demonstrating the nation's growing influence in the Asian athletics arena.
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