Doha: President of the Qatar Shooting and Archery Association (QSAA), Dr. Mishaal Ibrahim Al Nasr, has hailed the National Sports Day as a significant milestone for the State of Qatar, emphasizing its pioneering role as the first country to establish a national day dedicated to sports. The initiative, rooted in Amiri Decision No. 80 of 2011, designates the second Tuesday of February each year as National Sports Day, marking it as an official holiday.
According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Nasr highlighted that this innovative move has distinguished Qatar on the global stage, justifying its recognition as the Sports Capital of the World. He further elaborated that the Sports Day serves as a vital occasion to underscore the importance of consistent and regular sports practice, fostering a culture of physical activity across all societal segments.
He remarked that the event is an ideal opportunity to encourage the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, promoting sportsmanship and raising awareness about the benefits of physical activity for enhancing life quality. Dr. Al Nasr also lauded Qatar’s commitment to supporting sports through robust infrastructure, which ensures safe and effective participation.
Dr. Al Nasr expressed pride in Qatar’s sporting achievements both locally and internationally, asserting that the Sports Day is a powerful reminder of sport’s role in developing a cohesive society. He emphasized that Qatar’s focus on sports aligns with its broader national development goals and the Qatar National Vision 2030, recognizing sport as a crucial component in building human capacity.
QSAA Secretary General, Jassim Shaheen Al Sulaiti, echoed Dr. Al Nasr’s sentiments, stressing the Sports Day’s significance for individuals and society. He noted that Qatar is among the few nations to dedicate a national day to sports, allowing the closure of schools, offices, and shops to enable widespread participation in physical activities.
Al Sulaiti emphasized that sport is integral to the Qatar National Vision 2030, with major sporting events and advanced infrastructure reflecting the State’s commitment to international sports excellence. He described the Sports Day as a unique opportunity to highlight physical activity’s importance as a core part of daily life, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
He also highlighted the pivotal role of sport in societal development, fostering values such as cooperation, discipline, and sportsmanship. The QSAA is actively working to engage all age groups in sports, particularly shooting, which enhances mental and physical skills through its demand for concentration and precision.
Regarding the QSAA’s involvement in Sports Day activities, Al Sulaiti detailed that the association will participate in numerous events at venues such as Oxygen Park, Lusail Boulevard, and Aspire Park, alongside activities organized by various ministries. For the first time, the QSAA will collaborate with the Orphans Care Center (Dreama) to organize a special championship featuring archery, running, and cycling competitions.
In conclusion, Al Sulaiti urged community members to embrace the National Sports Day as a catalyst for adopting a more active and healthy lifestyle.