‘Long-term planning the key’

QATAR Women’s Sport Committee President Lolwa Al Marri was a picture of joy on the Games’ final day.

In an exclusive interview with Doha Stadium Plus, the official said long-term planning helped the hosts emerge as overall champions for the first time. Excerpts.

Your impression of Qatar’s performance…

We’re very happy to have bagged 21 gold medals. And to emerge as overall champions for the first time is something that makes us really proud.

What’s the secret behind such a great performance?

Organising the event was a hectic task, but we focused more to ensure that our athletes performed well on the court. We prepared them well by organising training camps and, looking back, our long-term planning worked wonders for our athletes. 

Our target was to finish on top of the standings and, thank God, we achieved it.

Organisation of the event was flawless. Could you comment on it?

Ten sports disciplines, including athletics, nearly 1,000 athletes and different venues meant we had to take real pains throughout the 11-day event. But when we listen to the good words of everyone who turned up for the Games, it makes us really happy.

Qatar is always unique when it comes to hosting these kind of events. Other than our state-of-the-art facilities, we’ve the expertise and experience, which makes our job easier.

How could Qatar raise the bar this time?

Our high level of performance and flawless organisation will add to the Games’ value.

We proved we’re the best in team events. The girls are always keen on competing in the Games and they’re already looking forward to the next edition in Kuwait. I’m sure the Doha experience will put them in good stead.