In a monumental move for aquatic sports, World Aquatics, in collaboration with the Bahrain Olympic Committee, GFH Financial Group, and the Bahrain Swimming Federation, has initiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the Bahrain Centre of Excellence. The project, under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, marks a historic step towards establishing a world-class aquatics facility in the Kingdom.
Empowering Athletes with Cutting-Edge Facilities
Situated at the University of Technology Bahrain (UTB), this groundbreaking initiative introduces the first-of-its-kind World Aquatics Centre of Excellence in the Middle East. Joining a prestigious network of global centers, including Antibes (France), Budapest (Hungary), Toronto (Canada), Davie (Florida, USA), Phuket (Thailand), and Gold Coast (Australia), this facility aims to empower high-performance athletes. The centerpiece will feature a 50-meter swimming pool, a 5-meter diving pool built to Olympic specifications, and seating for 1,000 spectators. These state-of-the-art facilities, coupled with world-class coaching and cutting-edge sports science, will shape the next generation of aquatic stars.
A Hub for Aquatic Excellence
The Bahrain Centre of Excellence is not merely a sports facility; it is a comprehensive ecosystem. In addition to the pools, the project includes extensive training and sports science facilities. Furthermore, the facility will provide accommodation, dining, and retail elements, fostering a sense of community for athletes fortunate enough to live and train at this world-class center.
HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa’s Vision
Under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports Chairman, and President of Bahrain Olympics Committee, this project holds strategic significance. His Highness envisions the centre strengthening aquatic sports in the region, solidifying Bahrain’s position as a global sporting hub. Expressing excitement, he congratulates partners for their dedication, anticipating the facility’s role in welcoming elite athletes to the Kingdom to pursue their sporting dreams.
World Aquatics President’s Perspective
World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam lauds the groundbreaking ceremony as a foundation for the future of aquatic sports in the Middle East. The centre of excellence aims to enhance global service to athletes while shaping the next generation of aquatic stars and elite coaches. Al-Musallam emphasizes that this facility will position Bahrain as a premier host for international aquatics events.
GFH Financial Group’s Commitment
Hisham Alrayes, Group CEO of GFH and Chairman of UTB, expresses pride in commencing work on this pioneering project. He highlights the facility’s dedication to attracting the global aquatics community to Bahrain and meeting the needs of local athletes, students, and the surrounding community. GFH and UTB are committed to advancing the Kingdom’s position as a regional center for talent development, particularly in sports.
Strategic Relocation and Expansion Plans
In addition to this groundbreaking initiative, World Aquatics is strategically relocating its headquarters to Budapest, Hungary. Hungary, a loyal partner in international aquatics, will further strengthen its ties with World Aquatics, hosting upcoming championships in 2027 and the World Aquatics Swimming Championships (25m) in the next year.
Anticipating Global Aquatic Events in 2024
Looking ahead, the aquatics community eagerly anticipates several global events in 2024, including the World Aquatics Championships in Doha and the Olympic Games in Paris. These events promise to showcase sporting excellence, crown new champions, and expand the fan base for aquatic sports.
In conclusion, the Bahrain Centre of Excellence marks a significant stride in transforming the landscape of aquatic sports. It not only symbolizes Bahrain’s commitment to sports excellence but also represents a collective effort to shape the future of aquatic athleticism on a global scale.
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By- Sahiba Suri