Doha, 24 February 2013 - From virtually unknown she became the talk of the… sport town when it was announced that she was elected to represent the state of the Qatar at the London 2012 Olympic Games. At age 18, Noor Al Malki was given the chance to be the first ever female Qatari Olympian and share a spot in the starting line along with athletics megastar sprinters Allyson Felix, Veronica Campbell-Brown, Shelly Ann Fraser-Pryce and Carmelita Jeter.
Unfortunately, fate didn’t treat her fairly, as she was forced to retire after a couple of strides in her Olympic qualifying heat, due to a sustained leg injury. The young Qatari lady lost the chance of a lifetime, although by only presenting herself at the London Olympic Stadium spectators she gained so much publicity that she eventually became one of the recognizable sport personalities in Qatar athletics world.
Today Qatar’s fastest woman is proudly supporting the National Sport Day celebrations, an initiative adopted by HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Deputy Emir and Heir Apparent, and happily accepted the role of the Ambassador of this great event which will be held across Qatar on February 12.
Noor Al Malki is a fine example of how people may benefit in various means by practicing sports. At a very young age she was lucky to enjoy her family guidance and support to get into sports and fulfill her ambitions. Today, she feels the National Sport Day initiative is a perfect opportunity to promote sports across the country and encourage people to leave sedentary lifestyle behind them and flock in indoor and outdoor gymnasia.
"My health is better, I can feel my body stronger, my immune system runs smoothly and my social life has bloomed. What else should I ask for? Practicing sports and especially athletics has changed my life, not to mention than I am far more recognizable than before.
"To be honest I haven’t done many things yet; I want to keep on running and God’s will to become on eday a role model for the generation to come" explains Noor who advises people, especially women to embrace sporting life.
"I want to underline the necessity of practicing. People mustn’t hesitate to put their sneakers on and join a gym. Practicing sports will make them feel more energetic, more powerful and healthier."
As far as Qatar’s ambition to become an international sports hub, Noor Al Malki, "Qatar Athletics Federation Best Female Athlete for 2011" says:
"Initiatives like the National Sport Day are advertising Qatar’s willingness to become a sporting nation, to encourage people to become sport addicted. We can show other nations that our society is adopting the sport culture and is open to fresh ideas for a healthier and robust life".
How about Noor’s ambition for the forthcoming post-Olympic season:
"I want to run as fast as I can. I admit that setting a new national record in the 100m with a sub-12 second timing is my main target along with success at the Arab Championships".
For more information visit: www.sportday.qa or Facebook: www.facebook.com/QatarNSD or Twitter: twitter.com/Qatar_NSD
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