His Highness Sayyid Azzan bin Qais al Said, Chairman of the Oman Olympic Committee (OOC) and the Oman Golf Association (OGA), honoured the national golf team players in recognition of their historic achievement at the Arab Age Group Golf Championship, recently held in Cairo, Egypt.
Oman secured three medals — two golds and one silver — marking an unprecedented achievement for the country at an Arab golf championship.
The ceremony, held at Ghala Golf Club in the presence of OGA Vice-Chairman Fayez Mohammed Riyad, celebrated the players' achievements and acknowledged the efforts of the technical and administrative staff in preparing and supporting the team throughout the tournament.
Ahmed bin Khalil al Wahaibi won gold in the under-21 individual competition before teaming up with Adam bin Masoud al Barwani to secure the under-21 team gold. Yousef bin Azzan al Rumhi completed Oman's medal haul by claiming silver in the under-13 individual competition.
The results highlighted Oman's competitiveness across age groups, with gold medals in both the individual and team events in the under-21 category and a silver in the under-13 competition.
Al Barwani was absent from the ceremony after returning to the United States to continue his university studies. His contribution to the under-21 team's gold-medal triumph alongside Al Wahaibi was an important part of Oman's success.
OOC CHIEF PRAISES YOUNG CHAMPIONS
HH Sayyid Azzan praised the players for their performances, stressing the importance of continued efforts to develop their abilities and provide an appropriate environment for training and preparation.
He expressed confidence that sustained support would help the players achieve further success and represent Oman with distinction at Gulf, Arab, continental and international competitions.
He also congratulated Al Rumhi on winning the under-13 individual silver medal, commending the team's performances and the progress of Omani golf. He highlighted the importance of nurturing promising young talents who can contribute to the sport's future development.
The team's performance reflected the combined efforts of the technical and administrative staff. Head coach Jonathan and his assistant, Fahad bin Harib al Kutaini, played key roles in preparing the players, while the OGA provided administrative and organisational support throughout the team's campaign.
INVESTING IN YOUNG PLAYERS
Fayez Mohammed Riyad expressed pride in the team's performance in Cairo, describing the two gold medals in the under-21 individual and team competitions and the under-13 silver as a significant milestone for Omani golf.
He said the results strengthened confidence in the potential of young Omani players and highlighted the importance of investing in their development.
“Investing in young players and providing opportunities for preparation and participation in tournaments will create champions capable of raising Oman's flag high at Arab and international sporting events,” Riyad said.
He added that the under-21 double gold was a source of pride for the Omani golf community, while Al Rumhi's silver medal underlined the importance of nurturing younger age groups and preparing a new generation of players for future championships.
Riyad also thanked HH Sayyid Azzan for honouring the players, saying the gesture recognised their commitment and dedication while providing a valuable morale boost.
“His Highness's presence among our young heroes gives them a tremendous morale boost and confirms that their efforts, dedication and sacrifices are appreciated and valued,” he said.
Looking ahead, Riyad said the association was determined to build on the Arab championship results by identifying promising talents, strengthening player development programmes and providing more opportunities to compete at higher levels.
He stressed that maintaining success would require sustained support and continued technical and administrative work, with the association aiming to establish a consistent presence at Gulf, Arab, Asian and international championships.
“We have promising young talents who deserve continued support and development, and our goal is to transform these successes into sustainable achievements in Gulf, Arab, Asian and international championships,” he said.
Riyad also praised head coach Jonathan, assistant coach Fahad bin Harib al Kutaini and the administrative staff for their contribution to the team's preparation. He acknowledged the role of the players' families in encouraging their sons and supporting their sporting development, while thanking the association's partners and everyone who contributed to the team's success.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
