PARIS, July 29, (Agencies): Kuwaiti shooter Khaled Al-Mudhaf kicked off his 2024 Paris Olympics campaign on Monday, finishing the first day of the men's shooting trap competition in 16th place with a cumulative score of 72 points. With up to 50 points available over two rounds on the second day of competition, Al-Mudhaf aims to be among the top six out of 30 shooters who will qualify for the knockout stages, according to a statement by the Kuwaiti National Olympic Committee.

The statement highlighted that Kuwaiti shooters have a history of success on the international stage, with shooting being the sport in which Kuwait has achieved most of its Olympic accomplishments. Al-Mudhaf, the first Kuwaiti athlete to qualify for the Paris Olympics, is making his fourth Olympic appearance this year. His best performance was a fourth-place finish at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Meanwhile, The Minister of Social Affairs, Family and Childhood Affairs, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Dr Amthal Al-Huwaila, emphasized the political leadership's commitment to supporting youth due to their crucial role in shaping the future.

Dr Al-Huwaila, leading the Kuwaiti delegation at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, expressed this sentiment after meeting with the Kuwaiti sports delegation at the Olympic Village in Seine-Saint-Denis, Paris. She stated, "We have a great responsibility towards our youth.

We must support and empower them to achieve their aspirations and elevate the State of Kuwait's stature on the international stage under the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishaal Al-Ahmad, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled, and His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah, the Prime Minister."

Minister Al-Huwaila reiterated the ministry's dedication to addressing key issues affecting youth and ensuring their aspirations are met in collaboration with all state agencies. She explained that her visit to the mission headquarters aimed to support and motivate the youth, urging them to strive hard and benefit from this unique experience to contribute to their country's development.

Minister Al-Huwailapraised the administrative and technical delegation for their organization and thorough preparations upon their arrival, ensuring all arrangements were in place for the players. She also expressed pride in the participation of female athletes in the Kuwaiti sports delegation at this Olympics, hoping for even greater representation of both genders in future sports events.