Dubai: The president athletic federation (UAE AF) still feels UAE athletes have an outside chance to win a medal in track and field athletes at next month’s Rio Games.
“Traditionally, the UAE has been a force in the double trap and skeet disciplines in shooting. This time we have a lot of hope pinned on the three judo players. But honestly, we should not be surprised if one of our girls [Alia Saeed Mohammad and Betlhem Desalegn] also ends up with a medal,” Ahmad Al Kamali, President, UAE AF and IAAF Council Member, told Gulf News.
Alia Saeed Mohammad will run in the women’s 10,000 metres, while Desalegn will attempt a top three finish in the 1,500 metres. Additionally, the UAE will have a third athlete — Saud Al Za’abi in the men’s 1,500 metres run.
“Alia has done a time of 31.10 minutes in the 10,000 metres earlier this year and that is the fourth best timing in the event this season. So she can fancy her chances. The good thing about an Olympic Games is that every athlete can aspire for a medal simply because every one is out to give off his or her best and win one and achieve sporting excellence,” Al Kamali said.
Meanwhile, Desalegn has been forced into taking a short break to treat a recent heel injury. “A lot of time and energy is being spent to ensure she is fit once again to run in the 1,500 metres. It is normal to have minor injuries going into a major competition,” he added.