Sharjah24: In a move reflecting the commitment of Sharjah to enhance its sporting heritage and support sports activities, Issa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council, announced the hosting of the Sharjah Falconers Championship 2023. This event is under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

The announcement was made during a press conference held yesterday at the Sharjah Sports Council headquarters, attended by a significant audience of falconry enthusiasts, sports aficionados, and journalists. Al-Hazami commended the efforts of the Sharjah Falconers Club, underscoring the significance of this championship in reviving sporting heritage and fostering a competitive spirit.

Mohammed Khalifa Al Badwawi, Chairman of the Sharjah Falconers Club, conveyed his appreciation to the Ruler of Sharjah for his substantial support for falconry. Al-Badawi announced the formation of the inaugural team for the Sharjah Falconers Club, comprising specialists participating at both local and international levels, with the aim of advancing falconry as a sport. This marks the initial step among all clubs dedicated to falconry sports nationally.

In his press conference address, Al-Badawi stated, "We are pleased at the Sharjah Falconers Club to declare the organisation of the Sharjah Falconers Championship for Tilwah 2023 under the generous sponsorship of the Ruler of Sharjah. This championship, an ongoing part of the club's agenda, underscores our dedication to promoting falconry and preserving our rich heritage."

Abdulaziz Al Ali, the Vice Chairman of the Board of the Sharjah Falconers Club and the Head of the Championship Organising Committee, then provided specifics about the championship. It will feature three categories: the Sheikhs' competition, the local competition, and the open competition. He stressed the importance of participants adhering to the rules and conditions for the seamless progression of the championship.

"Al-Tilwah" is a sculpted bird-shaped object used to train falcons for hunting. It takes the form of the wings of sparrows and is attached to a rope about one and a half meters long. The falconer waves it in the air to attract the attention of the falcon, encouraging it to swoop down on the prey and catch it.

Al Ali continued, "The championship will take place on the 29th with a format of fixed rounds. All competitions will occur over a distance of only 400 meters with tilwah. The events will be hosted at the club's track in the Maliha area, Sharjah. Any falcon not belonging to the registered category for participation will be excluded, as determined by the committee.