MUSCAT, MARCH 12
Omani sprinter Taha al Harrasi clinched the gold medal in the 100-metre race at the Grand Prix Athletics Championship for Para Athletes, hosted in the Indian capital, New Delhi, from March 9 to 15. This championship is one of the major events on the calendar of the World Para Athletics Federation, featuring the participation of more than 280 athletes from 20 countries.
Taha al Harrasi secured the gold medal with an impressive performance, completing the race in 12.53 seconds. He outpaced Nepalese sprinter Mikhail Cox, who finished second, while his compatriot Kidel Glazarin secured third place. The race witnessed fierce competition, especially as the participating athletes have extensive international experience. However, thanks to his high physical and technical readiness, Al Harrasi asserted himself in the race and strengthened his position among the top sprinters in his category.
As part of the national team’s preparations, Omani athletes continue their intensive training at the championship venue under the supervision of national coach Asaad al Qarni and with the follow-up of Mohammed al Hinai, Secretary of the Oman Paralympic Committee. The delegation aspires to secure more medals in the upcoming competitions, with Mohammed bin Jameel al Mushaikhi preparing for the shot put and club throw events, while Taha al Harrasi is also set to compete in the long jump.
Expressing his joy over the achievement, Al Harrasi said: “This medal is the result of continuous effort and training over the past months. I was determined to achieve an honourable result worthy of representing Oman, and I managed to stand on the podium. The competition was not easy, but I had confidence in my abilities and the preparations I underwent before the championship.”
Al Harrasi added, “I underwent intensive training under the supervision of national coach Asaad al Qarni and faced numerous challenges, but determination and perseverance were my driving forces in achieving this milestone. This gold medal increases my responsibility for upcoming races, and I aspire to achieve more in the long jump event, which I am currently preparing for.”
Regarding his preparations for the long jump, Al Harrasi stated: “Preparations for this event started a long time ago, focusing with the technical team on improving jump techniques, take-off, and acceleration before the final leap. I have worked on strengthening my lower body muscles and enhancing my ability for a powerful take-off and quick launch, as the long jump requires precise timing and coordinated movement to achieve a successful jump.”
He continued, “I look forward to achieving another milestone in the long jump and have full confidence in my ability to compete strongly. I will enter the competition with the same determination I had in the 100-metre race, hoping to raise Oman’s flag once again.”
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