Muscat – Oman’s newly formed national paragliding team is preparing for the 3rd Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Beach Games, which will be held in Muscat from April 5 to 11.
The event is organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth in partnership with the Oman Olympic Committee.
The Oman Air Sports Committee is overseeing the team’s training camp at the Sports City in Al Musanna. The two-week indoor camp is led by Italian coach Rafael Benetti and includes both theoretical and practical sessions to improve the athletes’ skills. Training takes place in both morning and evening sessions, with a focus on continuous drills to enhance performance.
The team consists of five athletes, along with a national coach, technical director, and administrative director.
Dr. Ahmed Zahir al Alawi, Chairman of the Oman Air Sports Committee, emphasized the committee’s commitment to developing air sports in Oman. “Our goal is to nurture young talents who can represent Oman in international competitions,” he said. He also noted that the committee is focusing on four key air sports disciplines: paragliding, kitesurfing, drones, and wireless aircraft.
Al Alawi highlighted the growing popularity of air sports in the region and Oman’s increasing involvement in the field.
“We have selected the best athletes with the help of an international referee and local officials. The upcoming championships will provide a great opportunity to showcase Oman’s potential in air sports,” he added.
National coach Yaqoub al Hosni praised the athletes’ commitment, especially during the challenges of training during Ramadan. “Their dedication to maintaining a strict training schedule is essential to ensure they are ready for Muscat 2025,” he said.
The upcoming GCC Beach Games will be the team’s first major international event on home soil.