His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council and Chairman of the Higher Committee for the Protection of the Rights of People of Determination, last evening opened the Dubai 2022 World Para Archery Championships at a ceremony held at Al Seef Heritage on the banks of Dubai Creek.

Speaking on the occasion, His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed said hosting the Championships reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai Crown Prince and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, to make Dubai a city that is friendly to people of determination. As part of the vision, Dubai has launched a number of projects and initiatives aimed at enhancing the participation of people of determination in various spheres of life and integrating them closely into society, he added.

His Highness further said Dubai has set an example for the world in empowering people of determination by offering them diverse opportunities to demonstrate their abilities in various fields, including sports. His Highness highlighted the role of Dubai Sports Council in creating opportunities for people of determination to participate in sporting events by providing the services, facilities and infrastructure necessary to demonstrate their excellence.

Highlights at the opening ceremony included acrobatic archery, jetboard, laser and fireworks displays. The event was attended by VIPs, officials, delegates, and athletes from the participating countries.  Another highlight was an evocative video screened at the event featuring a child looking forward to the beginning of his career, inspired by the history of archery.

The Dubai 2022 World Para Archery Championships featured 223 archers (compound, recurve, wheelchair and visually impaired) from 40 nations at the Dubai Club for People of Determination grounds.

Welcoming guests at the ceremony, Chairman of the Higher Organising Committee of the Championships Thani Juma Berregad expressed his pride and happiness at hosting the World Championships. He said the organisation of the Championships has been inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

He said the ‘My Community - A City for Everyone’ initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, sends the message that the word disability is not part of the dictionary of the nation’s society and Dubai is committed to transform itself into a city that is friendly to people of determination.

Strong legacy

“The purpose of this World Championships goes beyond just competitions and medals. It will leave a strong legacy with its inspiring stories. With its positive attitude, collaboration and openness, Dubai has become an international and regional centre of excellence for serving the needs of people of determination."

Berregad expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mansoor for his patronage of the Championships and for attending the opening ceremony. He also thanked the event's sponsors, volunteers and various working committees.

Tom Dielen, Secretary-General of World Archery, remarked that he is pleased to be in Dubai for this exceptional occasion, which shows the determination of the organising committee to hold this global event despite all challenges. He further said His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed's presence at the opening ceremony confirms the UAE and Dubai leadership's interest in enhancing the welfare of ‘people of determination’ and hosting similar global events, which include the Fazza Championships, which has become an important event in the map of global para sport.

“World Archery is honoured to hold a world championship in this beautiful city for the first time, which occupies a very important place in the world. Athletes from 40 countries are welcomed in this wonderful place, and I hope that all of you will have the opportunity to visit Dubai and enjoy Expo 2020 Dubai during your stay,” he said.