Doha: The 24th Asian Junior Bowling Championships kicked off in Doha on Saturday. Hosted by Qatar, the official opening of the tournament, organized by the Qatar Bowling Association in cooperation with the Asian Bowling Federation (ABF), took place at the Qatar National Bowling Center, and attended by officials from the International, Asian, and Qatar bowling federations.
According to Qatar News Agency, the opening ceremony featured artistic and cultural performances from Qatari heritage, along with oaths taken by the players and referees, and a parade of the participating teams. Eleven countries are participating in the tournament: host Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, Kuwait, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Bahrain, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and India.
President of IBF/ABF Sheikh Talal Mohammed Al-Sabah praised the opening ceremony. He congratulated Qatar on the distinguished opening of the Asian Junior Bowling Championships, noting that Qatar has always been keen on organizing championships in the best possible way. It has previously organized many major bowling championships at various levels, but this is the first time that the continental championship is organized for this age group. He added that they are confident of its success and distinction.
He added that the opening ceremony was characterized by simplicity and a commitment to presenting Qatari heritage in a wonderful way to the participating delegations, while congratulating the Qatar Bowling Federation for their efforts in organizing the event in such a distinguished manner. The President of IBF/ABF concluded his remarks by wishing that all participants will give their best so that the tournament achieves the highest levels of success.
For his part, President of the Qatar Bowling Federation Abdullah Sultan Al Qattan welcomed all participating delegations, expressing his happiness with the successful opening ceremony. In his speech, Al Qattan hoped that the tournament will be a platform for fair competition, characterized by sportsmanship and mutual respect. He pointed out that the tournament's organizing committee is keen to provide all that can contribute to the excellence of this Asian tournament and ensure that it delivers an amazing event.
Competition will kick off with the Singles event for the girls on Sunday, July 27. The Singles event for the boys, divided into two squads will be held on Monday, July 28. The Doubles will be contested on Tuesday, July 29 and the Team of 4 over two blocks of 3 games each on Wednesday and Thursday, July 30 and 31.