Q Life Magazine Q Magazine June 2018 | Page 52

| Issue 4 THE QATAR OLYMPIC COMMITTEE Founded in 1979 and officially recognised by the International Olympic Committee a year later, Qatar Olympic Committee works to encourage sports participation at every level, bring world-class sports events to Qatar, ensure sporting success, and promote Olympism. It is responsible for initiating National Sport Day, Qatar Women’s Sports Committee and the Schools Olympic Program. What advice would you give to young Qatari athletes who want to follow in your footsteps? My advice is to give their best in training, always make sure to listen and follow their coach’s tips and advice, and never underestimate themselves. Also, it is so important to sleep early, and follow a healthy and nutritious diet. How about female athletes – do you think that Qatar will see more women getting into professional sport? Definetely. There are already many Qatari women who are playing sport at a professional level. The number is increasing and the level of performance is improving. I’m proud to be a role model, and inspire and empower more young girls to follow their sporting dreams. Success doesn’t happen overnight, but we are seeing more and more achievements at the local and regional level, and we know that this will continue to improve in the future. Qatar has all the foundations in place and is supporting its female athletes in every way possible. | Bahiya Al Hamad 52