UAE swimmers create history

DUBAI - The judges awarded the side with the 'Best Swimming Team' special prize after the competition ended on a high note with the conduct of the traditional relay events.

 The UAE national swimming team created history by claiming a record 15 medals at the GCC championships in Doha.
The haul included eight golds, three silvers and three bronzes at the 25th swimming gala where some of the more experienced men put up a brilliant show.  This is the first time ever that the UAE swimming contingent has reaped so many medals in a major championship.
The judges awarded the side with the 'Best Swimming Team' special prize after the competition ended on a high note with the conduct of the traditional relay events. Al Ain Club's Jacob Saadi, achieved a personal best time of 58.34 seconds in the 200 metres backstroke.
The Emirati national star touched peak levels to also claim gold in the 100m backstroke and 4x100m medley relay in fine style.
Also splashing his way to the podium top was UAE's Ahmed Al Hosni in the men's 50m freestyle while his teammate Mohammed Jassim earned the bronze medal.
Also in the limelight for the UAE with a gold was Mubarak Salem who raced to the touch point first in the 50m and 100m breaststroke events.
More top of the podium finishes were in store for the impressive UAE squad when MA Ghafri won gold in the 50m backstroke and 50m butterfly events.
At this stage the UAE had seven golds in their bag, and the crowning moment on Tuesday evening was when the Emirati quartet added the 4x100m medley relay gold to the kitty as Ghafri, Mubarak, Saadi and Jassim touched top form.
"We were in for some very tough competition with the veterans and other upcoming talent in the Gulf region. Our experience and hardwork the past months have paid off," said UAE coach and delegation head Abdullah Mubarak Zahmi, "This indeed is a memorable moment in the history of UAE swimming. This the first time that the overall championship trophy is reaching the UAE shores."
moni@khaleejtimes.com