Sharjah24: Sharjah Women’s Sports Foundation, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and the Sharjah Private Education Authority, organised the sixth edition of the School Athletics Championship. For the first time, the event was hosted in Khorfakkan over two days, attracting strong participation from 10 schools in the Eastern Region. 247 students competed in the preliminary round on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, with 102 qualifying for the finals, held on Thursday, 1 May 2025 at Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled.
Three age groups and five core disciplines
The competition targeted three age categories (9–10, 11–12, and 13–14 years) and featured five key events: the 60m, 150m, and 300m races, long jump, and shot put. The decision to hold the event in Khorfakkan reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to broadening the reach of school sports and strengthening the presence of women’s sport throughout the emirate. These events aim to position sport as a lifestyle, foster a competitive spirit in schools, and increase participation in athletics in particular.
Her Excellency Hanan Al Mahmoud, Vice Chairperson of the Sharjah Women’s Sports Foundation, highlighted the event’s significance, stating:
"The success of the championship in Khorfakkan reflects the rising awareness of sport in schools. We’re not simply hosting one-off events — we’re embedding a lasting sports culture. This edition provided a competitive platform for girls in the Eastern Region and included precise body composition assessments to better understand the physical attributes of each age group."
Close medal count reflects strong school readiness
The finals saw tightly contested races among participating schools. Al Ma’arifa 2 (Cycles 2 and 3) topped the table with 13 medals (4 gold, 3 silver, 6 bronze), followed by Al Hijra School with 9 medals and Asiya bint Muzahim School with 6. Schools such as Al Shifa bint Abdullah, Al Shuhada, Omar bin Abi Waqqas, Zayed Educational Complex, Abdul Rahman Al Nasser, and Fujairah also delivered strong performances.
World-class facilities at Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled
The sixth edition stood out for its exceptional venue. Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled provided a fully equipped environment with modern facilities, a high-standard athletics track, and comprehensive support services, ensuring a safe and welcoming experience for all participants. The professionalism of the organising teams added to the smooth execution and success of the event.
Local partnerships driving community sport forward
Mr Louay bin Alai Al Naqbi, Vice Chairman of Khorfakkan Club for the Disabled, expressed pride in the club’s role, stating:
"Hosting this educational and sporting event is an honour. The strong engagement from schools and the wider community confirms that the initiatives led by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi are making a deep and lasting impact. School sports are key to instilling discipline and self-confidence, and such collaboration is vital across all national institutions."
Scientific approach to data-driven school sport development
Alongside the competitions, anthropometric measurements were conducted by the Scientific Centre for Sports Performance Research and Development, aimed at building a data-driven foundation for future training programmes. Results showed promising physical indicators, particularly in speed and endurance, offering a strong base for scientific development within schools.
Jama Aden, athletics expert at the Foundation, noted:
"The variation in students’ physical attributes reflects a promising base to build upon. These scientific assessments provide reliable data to develop tailored training plans for each age group and support sustainable, structured growth in school sports."
Celebrating achievement and encouraging continued progress
The event concluded with the awarding of medals to winners and recognition of participating schools and key partners for their efforts. Sharjah Women’s Sports Foundation remains committed to developing an integrated ecosystem that enhances school sport and promotes it as a key driver of physical, mental, and social growth.