Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The Marine Sports Festival for People of Determination will kick off on Thursday, creating an inclusive and empowering space for the community. Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club (ADMSC), in cooperation with Zayed Authority for People of Determination, is conducting the event as part of joint efforts to promote social inclusion and support the participation of people of determination in marine sports activities.
Speaking to Aletihad, Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Academy, said behind the initiative is a vision to promote equality and social inclusion through sports. The festival aims to give "people of determination the chance to discover their abilities and showcase their potential within an integrated sporting framework", he said.
The festival will witness the participation of 60 athletes competing in a variety of marine races, held across morning and evening sessions, with wide participation from local and international entities.
The morning session will feature beach kayaking races, following participant registration and a technical briefing, while the evening session will include unified sailing competitions, in addition to individual and double kayaking races.
Al Suwaidi said all these competitions were meticulously reviewed and adjusted to accommodate participants' abilities, allowing them to practise marine sports in a safe and motivating environment.
"To ensure the safety of participants and provide them with a sporting experience that combines confidence, enjoyment, and challenge, special equipment will be used; race courses have been adjusted; and qualified technical staff and trained coaches have been assigned," he said.
The organisation of the festival reflects the commitment of ADMSC and the Zayed Authority for People of Determination to promoting the concept of "sport for all" and providing an inclusive sporting environment that enables them to showcase their abilities and achieve their aspirations.
The Zayed Authority's expertise and experience in working with people of determination have been instrumental in ensuring the event meets the needs and aspirations of its participants, Al Suwaidi said.
He described the collaboration as a prime example of intentional institutional cooperation in the service of the community.
"The organisation plays a key role in coordinating athlete participation, offering technical and supervisory support, and providing medical and rehabilitative follow-up, ensuring the highest standards of safety and organisation."
Several entities will take part in the festival, including the French VHASI team, Sharjah City for Humanitarian Services, Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, and the ZHO for People of Determination, contributing to the exchange of expertise and strengthening cooperation in the sporting and humanitarian fields.
The event will also be attended by students, teachers, and parents from Lycée Louis Massignon French School, who will be present to support and encourage the participants, in a scene that embodies the values of solidarity and community cohesion.
