The bulk of the swarms seen in the Emirates is made up of Wandering Gliders — the world's most widespread dragonfly that is found in open areas
uae16 hours ago
Transitioning from swimming and football, 17-year-old Emirati athlete Abdulla AlBalooshi is breaking new ground in a sport that many would not think of in the UAE: Skiing, a competitive winter discipline that very few explore in a desert country.
But AlBalooshi is undeterred. In fact, he has come a long way trading his swimming trunks and football cleats to pursue his dream of representing his nation on the global stage of competitive skiing.
He recently took part in the UAE National Ski team's training camp in Davos, Switzerland, to improve the skills of national athletes, in preparation for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
"I seek to make history for my country by pursuing sports that are not traditional here — a desert country," AlBalooshi, who is a Grade 11 student, confidently told Khaleej Times.
AlBalooshi's passion for skiing ignited roughly five years ago, by his desire to make history for the UAE in a sport rarely associated with the desert nation.
He started with swimming and football but eventually transitioned to skiing. “The change was absolutely challenging,” he shared, adding: “I had to shift focus to find balance and improve my agility to become a professional skier.
Overcoming the challenges, AlBalooshi's dedication was evident in his success. His typical day includes training sessions, gym work, and academic studies while he tries to spend some time with his friends and family.
"I am mostly busy throughout the day with practice and dry land conditioning, but I always make time for schoolwork and the rare chance to be with family and friends," he added.
Alblooshi is strongly supported by the UAE national team, his coaches, and family. “They motivate me to represent the country,” he noted.
Alblooshi also draws inspiration from Emirati athletes who have paved the way before him. His eyes are set on qualifying for the Winter Olympic Games.
As for aspiring athletes, here is his message: "Have fun with your sport at every opportunity. Overthinking about the results or the future only clouds the enjoyment of the journey."
ALSO READ:
The bulk of the swarms seen in the Emirates is made up of Wandering Gliders — the world's most widespread dragonfly that is found in open areas
uae16 hours ago
Office number 308 in Al Jawhara building, currently occupied by BlueChip Financing Broker, was home to the now-defunct Acme four years ago
uae16 hours ago
She provided first aid to the injured until the arrival of the ambulance
uae17 hours ago
Following the previous such survey in 2019, electronic smoking devices attracted taxation
uae18 hours ago
Climate change projections for the MENA region indicate that these countries will experience more rainfall during spring
uae18 hours ago
Archer Aviation has partnered with Abu Dhabi's Etihad Aviation Training for the purpose
uae19 hours ago
The Cyber Security Council revealed that in the third quarter of 2023, social engineering attacks are mostly done through phishing websites, emails, social media scams, and instant messaging hoaxes
uae20 hours ago
UAE President also extended his heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families
uae22 hours ago