AlKass Digital
Buenos Aires, Argentina- Owaab Barrow and Ahmed Al Haj are part of Team Qatar’s contingent for the Summer Youth Olympic Games.
The event, would be the highlight in the careers of the two 17-year-old student-athletes of Aspire Academy, who are eager to make the most of the opportunity.
“I am excited to see the atmosphere and the people there. My season has been long and successful so far with competing in the U20 World Championships and qualifying for Buenos Aires. Now I am going to Argentina to do well and hopefully to get a personal best,” said Barrow, who would be competing in the 110m hurdles race.
“It’s been a great season so far for Owaab, who did a great progression in terms of what he has achieved at the World U20 Championships. So to be able to go there now at U18 level and take the next step, hopefully be in the final and run a personal best, would be a good achievement for him. On top of that, the whole Olympic experience can be a big motivation for the future and hopefully one day he can achieve the dream of being at senior Olympic Games,” senior sprints coach Lee Christopher said.
Discus thrower, Al Haj, is not only looking forward to competing in the elite event in the U-18 category, but is keen on experiencing the atmosphere. “Because an enthusiastic crowd can give you an extra push. Furthermore, a big event like this allows you to gain more experience and motivates you to keep working hard in order to compete at many big events like this one.”
Senior throws coach Ivica Jakeljic also sees the “Youth Olympics” as best preparation for future major events. “The young athletes are exposed to people from all over the world, they see how other athletes train and behave at such a big stage. It will be a great learning experience for Ahmed and I think he is able to achieve a good result.”