A participant in action at the fifth Sharjah International Paragliding Championship.

Gulf Today, Sports Reporter

The fifth edition of the Sharjah International Paragliding Championship kicked off Friday at Jebel Al Faya in the Maliha region Sharjah, with the participation of over 45 competitors representing 14 countries alongside the UAE.

The first day was marked by excitement as participating showcased their skills and creative abilities before a large crowd.

Taking place under the patronage of Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, the championship is being organized by the Emirates Aerosports Federation in collaboration with the Sharjah Sports Council.

The championship witnessed a significant turnout, including the presence of dignitaries such as Ghanem Al Hajri, the Director-General of the General Authority of Sports, and Eisa Hilal Al Hazami, chairman of Sharjah Sports Council, among others.

Hajri expressed his delight at the organizational and artistic successes witnessed during the fifth edition of the Sharjah International Paragliding Championship, stating, "The joint efforts of the Emirates Aerosports Federation and Sharjah Sports Council have resulted in the professional execution of the championship.

“The performances we witnessed were distinguished by exceptional abilities and skills." He extended his appreciation to Nasser Hamouda Al Neyadi, President of the Emirates Aerosports Federation, for his dedicated efforts as the head of the championship's organizing committee, ensuring its success and presentation in the best possible manner.

"The General Authority for Sports will spare no effort in supporting all sports, especially air sports, which instill in our youth a spirit of adventure and love for nature, nurturing their personalities."

He called upon Emirati athletes to represent the country with pride in all regional, continental, and international sports events, further enhancing the UAE's reputation, particularly in the global sports arena, in line with the visions and directives of our wise leadership.

Hajri expressed his gratitude to the Sharjah Sports Council for its diligent efforts to ensure the success of all sports events held in the emirate and the promotion of sports culture, affirming that the council's support for the championship and the provision of all facilities were key to its success and continuity.

Hazami praised the technical and organizational level of the fifth edition of the championship, hosted by the distinguished emirate in one of the world's best paragliding locations, Jebel Al-Faya, whether in terms of altitude or the stunning backdrop of the jump and the colorful mountains.

Hazami stated, "We are proud of the achievements and our joy is indescribable. Here, I must commend the precision and magnificence of the organization, which, along with the beauty of the location, formed a splendid artistic tableau that propelled participating pilots to deliver fantastic performances." He congratulated the organizing committee, working committees, and the entire team on these achievements, which stand testament to their tremendous efforts, wishing the championship continued success.