DOHA — London 2012 Paralympian Abdulrahman Abdulqader Abdulrahman has been named as the first official Ambassador for the National Sport Day to be held across Qatar on Feb. 12. Abdulrahman, who represented Qatar in shot put, discus throw and javelin throw at the Paralympic Games last summer, is among a group of elite athletes who have pledged their support to the Sport Day. As the leading Paralympian in the country, Abdulrahman's presence is central to the main concept of the event – that Sport is for All, offering an opportunity for personal development. “In Athletics, you compete not only against your opponents, but against your own personal records as well,” said Abdulrahman, who finished sixth out of 20 athletes in the discus throw event. “Personal development is a key part of sport and can help everyone improve in every aspect in life. I hope the National Sport Day leads to many people embracing sport for life.” Across the country, ministries, government departments, public and private sector organizations and sports clubs will organize sporting activities on the day. The event aims to create awareness about sports and its benefits. Inviting the whole population of Qatar to the Sport Day, the Paralympian highlighted the way sport helped him overcome the obstacles he faced in life. “My disability does not prevent me from practicing sports and achieve high performance levels, represent my country and raise the Qatari flag at international events. Furthermore, it encourages me to challenge the best athletes in the world and prove that even a disabled person can achieve great results.” The Ambassadors are a group of elite athletes in Qatar who have pledged their support to the National Sport Day 2013. Their skill, spirit and commitment to sports embody the values of the National Sport Day. The National Sport day is celebrated on the second Tuesday of February and is an initiative adopted by Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani, the Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent. — SG
