UAE will take part in Youth Olympic Winter Games in South Korea

Dubai: UAE is set to participate in the 4th Youth Olympic Winter Games in South Korea from January 19th to February 1st. This global event will bring together 1,900 athletes aged 15-18 from 80 different National Olympic Committees.

The competitions will be held in four cities across Gangwon Province, the host region of the Winter Youth Olympics. Representing the UAE, snowboarder Amina AlMehairi will compete in snowboard slopestyle, and alpine skier Alex Striedger will participate in alpine skiing.

The participation of these Emirati athletes is a significant accomplishment, earned through their dedication and efforts. Starting with the UAE Championship in Ski Dubai in October 2022, they competed in various European local events to gain exposure and enhance their technical skills. Additionally, they attended developmental camps in Switzerland, Austria, France, and New Zealand, aiming to further elevate their skills and gain valuable experience.

To qualify for the Olympics, participants must hold an international license from the International Ski Federation, be aged between 15-18, and have previous championship experience – criteria that both UAE players fulfill.

Fares Al Mutawa, Secretary-General of the UAE National Olympic Committee, highlighted the importance of Emirati athletes participating in major events, showcasing the advanced level of the Olympic movement in the UAE. He emphasized the leadership’s support and belief in the capabilities of youth, their readiness to compete at an elite level, and the athletes’ determination to achieve their goals.

Hamel Ahmed Al Qubaisi, Vice President of the UAE Winter Sports Federation, noted that the UAE’s participation is a crucial step toward future involvement in the Winter Olympic Games in Cortina, Italy, in 2026. It also aligns with the UAE’s participation commitments to the International Ski Federation and the International Olympic Committee.

The Winter Youth Olympic Games have been held since 2012, with previous editions hosted in Innsbruck, Austria, Lillehammer, Norway, and Lausanne, Switzerland.

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