Eastern Region Governor Welcomes Torch Of Saudi Games 2024

Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, the Governor of the Eastern Region, received the torch for the third edition of the Saudi Games 2024 at his office. This event is part of a promotional tour for the Kingdom's largest national sports event. Prince Saud commended the leadership's support for sports and athletes in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the progress made in Saudi sports.

The torch tour commenced at Corniche Square in Khobar, where weightlifter Mohammed Al-Halio carried it. Al-Halio won a bronze medal in the snatch for the 73 kilograms weight category at the World Championships under 17 in Peru. He then passed the torch to Lina Qari, who has earned multiple medals, including a bronze at the 2024 Asian Championship and silver at the 2024 European Jiu-Jitsu Championship.

Mohammed Al-Mukhalis handed over the torch to Prince Saud. Al-Mukhalis is an accomplished athlete with gold medals from various IBJJF World Championships and the Abu Dhabi World Master Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2022. He also serves as a coach and player for Al-Qadisiyah Jiu-Jitsu Club.

Several athletes participated in carrying the torch during its journey. Shereen Abulhassan, Vice President of the Saudi Rowing Federation, was among them. She is also a member of the Women and Youth Development Committee at the Asian Youth Federation and founded Rawasi Hiking Team, Saudi Arabia's first women's hiking team.

The torch was later carried to Candle Square by Mohammed Al-Ali. Al-Ali won gold at the 2024 Arab Championship for Athletes with Disabilities and silver at the West Asian Para Games in badminton. He then handed it over to weightlifter Mohammed Al-Ajjan, who secured three silver medals at the World Championships under 17 in Peru in 2024 and multiple medals at the 2023 Arab Championships in Egypt.

Celebrating Achievements

This year's torch tour aims to visit top cultural, historical, and tourist landmarks across Saudi Arabia. It will cover 56 famous sites throughout the Kingdom. The tour includes several champions and influencers who have made significant contributions to sports, celebrating this major national event with local communities.

Prince Saud wished all participants success in achieving their goals and aspirations during this year's competitions. The Saudi Games reflect significant advancements in sports within Saudi Arabia.

Shereen Abulhassan has climbed many global peaks such as Kilimanjaro, Elbrus, Fuji, Everest Base Camp, and several European summits. She has also participated in various mountain races and marathons.

The festive atmosphere marked each stop of the torch's journey through different regions. This celebration underscores community involvement and enthusiasm for sports development within Saudi Arabia.

The promotional tour highlights not only athletic achievements but also cultural pride by visiting prominent landmarks. It brings together athletes from diverse backgrounds to showcase their talents on a national stage.

The torch relay symbolises unity and progress within Saudi sports while promoting physical fitness and healthy competition among youth.

With inputs from SPA