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UAE National Sailing Team Wins Five Medals at Qatar International Optimist Championship 2025

Doha, Qatar, February 9, 2025 – The UAE National Sailing Team claimed five medals at the conclusion of the Qatar International Optimist Championship 2025, which took place over four consecutive days at Rixos Gulf Hotel Beach in Doha. The event featured 52 competitors representing 11 national teams, showcasing intense competition on the water.

Outstanding Performances by UAE Sailors

• Gold Medal & Rising Star Award – Hamad Al Muhairi won first place in the Under-8 category, also earning the Rising Star Award as the youngest participant in the championship.
• Two Medals for Cornelia Bajak (10 years old) – Gold in the Girls' Category and Bronze in the Under-12 Category.
• Two Silver Medals for Khalifa Al Rumaithi (11 years old) – Silver in the Overall Ranking and Silver in the Under-12 Category.

Recognition & Appreciation

The championship was attended by Mohammed Abdullah Al Obaidli, Secretary-General of the UAE Sailing & Rowing Federation, and Khalid Mohammed Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Technical Committee. Both officials witnessed the award ceremony and celebrated the UAE team’s achievements.

As a gesture of strengthening cooperation between the UAE and Qatari sailing federations, the UAE Sailing & Rowing Federation delegation presented a commemorative shield to Ali Nasser Talfit, Secretary-General of the Qatar Sailing & Rowing Federation, in recognition of Qatar’s efforts in hosting the event.

Praising the Team's Success

Mohammed Abdullah Al Obaidli praised the remarkable performance of the UAE national team, emphasizing that these results reflect the continuous progress of UAE sailors in international competitions. He congratulated the team delegation for their impressive representation, highlighting the support of Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, and the coaching staff, led by technical director Zouhair Labat and coach Alber Tarhan.

The UAE national sailing team continues its strong presence in international events, building on its series of successes in regional and global championships.