Khalid bin Hamad hails royal support to sport

Manama, Dec. 10 (BNA): His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, congratulated His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, ruler of the country, May God Protect Him, the wise leadership and His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, representative of His Majesty the King for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, President of Bahrain Olympic Committee for the success of the Ironman International Triathlon held yesterday, under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister, going in line with the national day celebrations and the HM the King's accession to the throne on Dec 16-17. His Highness stressed that his Majesty the King is the first supporter of sports in the Kingdom, adding that the sports sector receives wide support from His Majesty, which reflects on the Kingdom hosting various events and achieving many positive results. His Highness said that the presence of HM the King at the championship races held yesterday, has made the event that included 1200 contestants, into a success. This came during HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa’s participation in the bicycle and sprinting races, as His Highness watched the launch of the swimming races from Four Season Hotel. His Highness praised the efforts of HH Nasser bin Hamad for organizing the event that achieved the goals of strengthening the Kingdom's position on the global sports map and push youth to adopt a healthy lifestyle. HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa also checked up on the safety of HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa after His Highness dropped out of the race when he fell off the bicycle and was injured. His Highness wished his brother good health and better luck in upcoming championship. His Highness expressed his joy with the participation in the event, praising all of the effective participation by the contestants, who contributed to the success of this unique sport. His Highness also thanked the organizing committee for their efforts in bringing out the event in the best image possible. His Highness also said that Bahrain has many capable youth who can organize international events held in the precious Kingdom.