An official website of the United States government
Here's how you know
A .mil website belongs to an official U.S. Department of Defense organization in the United States.
A lock (lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .mil website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

U.S. servicemembers compete, build relations during Qatar National Sports Day

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kia Atkins
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
AL UDEID AIR BASE, Qatar --  More than 80 U.S. servicemembers joined their counterparts in the Qatar Emiri Air Force to celebrate Qatar National Sports Day here, Feb. 10.

The Qatar National Sports Day is an initiative adopted in 2011 by the Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, to instill the value of sports into the nation's culture and inspire people to be healthy and engage in physical activities.

"We were excited when we heard that the Qatari Emiri Air Force invited us to participate in their National Sports Day," said 1st Lt. Keith Burton, 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Protocol deputy chief. "It's a great way to build good relationships with our Qatari counterparts."

National Sports Day started with a 3K run and included competitive sporting events like basketball, soccer, volley ball, and relay races. The sports-centered celebrations also included food and drinks, activities for the children and other events that were provided by the QEAF. Additionally, awards were presented to individual and teams winners of the various sports competitions.

"It's all about camaraderie and good sportsmanship. It was an honor to be out here and be a part of the events that happened today," said Burton.

After the sports day event, Col. Steven Biggs, 379th AEW vice commander, thanked everyone for supporting Qatar National Sports Day.

"It was great seeing all of the effort out here and sharing good-natured competition with our Qatari partners in honor of their national holiday," said Col. Steven Biggs, 379th AEW vice commander. "Sports are a common language in many cultures and have a unique way of bringing people together."