The head of the organizing committee for the 30th Gulf Swimming Championship, Hamid Al-Houti, praised the exceptional level demonstrated by the 30th edition in Abu Dhabi, confirming that Abu Dhabi presented an exceptional model in terms of organization, participation, and technical levels, making it one of the strongest editions in the championship's history. The Gulf Swimming Championship concluded yesterday after four days of competitions at the Olympic Pool in Mohammed bin Zayed City, with the participation of more than 200 swimmers from six Gulf countries, amidst a large crowd and administrative presence. Al-Houti told 'Al-Ittihad': 'What we witnessed during the current edition reflects the great status of the state in hosting major sporting events in terms of organization, public attendance, and high spirit of competition, as the state presents a proud image for aquatic sports in the Gulf and has become a regional center for these championships.' He added: 'The numbers recorded this year make the 30th edition a historic milestone, whether in the number of participants, the strength of the races, or the closeness of the levels. The championship is a clear message that the future of Gulf swimming is heading towards further progress.' The national swimming team topped the overall standings, raising its tally to 57 colored medals (32 gold, 16 silver, 9 bronze) after three days of competition, leading the teams in the number of gold medals, surpassing Kuwait (25 gold). 'The championship is not just a platform for crowning champions, but also an opportunity to build a new generation of swimmers in the Gulf,' Al-Houti explained. He noted that 'the success was not only technical but also organizational, as was evident from the great work done by administrators, referees, and volunteers, and the high professionalism inside the Olympic Pool, all factors that contributed to the championship's best image.' He concluded: 'We are proud of what has been achieved and that the UAE continues to lead the development of aquatic sports in the region. The participation of more than 200 swimmers is a great testament to the great confidence in the UAE's organizational capabilities and the continuous support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the UAE Aquatic Sports Federation.' He continued: 'The current edition was distinguished by the emergence of promising talents from various countries, especially in the younger age groups.'
