Doha 2019 Organising Committee opens recreation facility for volunteer force

The organising committee of  the IAAF World Championships Doha 2019 yesterday opened a ‘Volunteers’ Entertainment Tent’ for the benefit of thousands of volunteers who will be involved with the prestigious September 26-October 6 event.
Director General of the event Dahlan al-Hamad, who is also the president of the Asian Athletics Association and a vice president of the IAAF, inaugurated the centre at a gala ceremony at Aspire Zone.
Among those present were Director of Marketing and Communications Hamad al-Obaidly and Kaltham al-Rumaihi, Deputy Director of Corporate Support.
About 5,000 volunteers from more than 100 countries will be involved in the tournament, the most prestigious sporting event to be held to date in Qatar.
The volunteers will assist the thousands of athletes, media and officials attending the championships in carrying out their duties and responsibilities efficiently.
The centre will have facilities for different games such as basketball, football, beach volleyball, badminton, besides a gym and an area dedicated to video games.
The Organising Committee will implement a daily physical exercise regimen for all volunteers and will also conduct tournaments between various departments in which top officials and staff can take part in order to create an atmosphere of camaraderie and solidarity.
In his address, Dahlan al-Hamad said he was deeply honoured to inaugurate the facility, saying volunteering was an essential element of any major sporting event and that volunteers play an important role in their success.
“You will play an important part in the IAAF World Championships and I am confident you will live up to the expectations of the thousands of athletes, officials and media from all parts of the globe,” said al-Hamad.
“Although it will be hard work I am sure you will enjoy every moment of it because it is a great occasion to be associated with so many champions and global sporting icons and get to see them in action from close quarters.
“The thrill and excitement of being part and parcel of a such a big event is an honour in itself,” he added.
Al-Hamad stressed that volunteers are also great ambassadors for the country.
“Through your excellent work and contribution you will earn the respect of everybody. Try to do your best because you are also ambassadors for the country.”
He praised them for their devotion to the cause of volunteering and also thanked Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani and Chairman of the Organising Committee  for his help and support.
In his speech on behalf of the volunteers, Ali Dari said he was very proud to be part of the volunteering team.
“The entire world is waiting for the IAAF World Championships to start and I, too, am excited beyond words,” he said.
“I am sure my fellow volunteers will rise to the challenge and earn the respect and admiration of everyone. We promise to be the best ambassadors for the country” he added.
Kaltham al-Rumaihi said the volunteers are raring to go and show the world what they are capable of.
“Qatar will be the focus of the world’s attention during the World Championships and the volunteers are highly trained and motivated to play their part,” she said.
“They have great communication skills and I am sure they will excel in the roles assigned to them,” she added.
Sarah Belmahdi, the youngest of the volunteers also said she can’t wait for the event to start.
“I am proud to be a volunteer. I love athletics and I am keen to be part of this global event,” she said.