By Fawad Hussain
Doha: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Beach Games which initiated in Bahrain five years ago will be revived when Qatar will host its second edition in April with the organisers promising an action-packed eight days in Doha.
Khalid Hamad Al Mohannadi, the Executive Director of the Second GCC Beach Games yesterday informed that the multi-sporting event featuring seven disciplines will be held from April 2 to April 9, 2015 at two venues in Doha.
“We are expecting participation of over 300 athletes,” Al Mohannadi told a press conference at the Qatar Olympic Committee headquarters.
“Al Gharafa and Katara will be the two venues. Al Gharafa will play host to football, handball, basketball and volleyball events while the contests for swimming, rowing and sailing will be held in Katara,” he said.
Basketball has been added to the second edition as the inaugural edition saw the GCC countries vying for honours in six disciplines.
Al Mohannadi announced Sudaifi as mascot for the second GCC Beach Games. Sudaifi was the mascot for the 17th GCC Football Championship, it may be recalled. He also promised to hold the event in a befitting manner.
“All the federations are working together for the event,” said Al Mohannadi. “Arrangements for GCC Beach Games are on track and we hope it will be a huge success.”
To a query, Al Mohannadi said the weather in April will be suitable for holding the games.
THE PENINSULA
