The equestrian delegation.

KUWAIT CITY, July 1: The Kuwaiti Special Olympics delegation is set to participate in the first regional equestrian competition organized by Special Olympics Middle East and North Africa. The event, hosted in Al Ain from August 24 to 28, is organized by the Special Olympics UAE in collaboration with the regional body, under the patronage of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and hosted by the Abu Dhabi Police General Command's Special Patrols Department within the Criminal Security Sector.

Athletes from ten Arab countries will take part in this significant regional event, representing their respective Special Olympics programs.

Hana Al-Zawawi, President of Special Olympics Kuwait and head of the Kuwaiti delegation, confirmed that three riders will represent Kuwait: Basma Al-Busaili, Maryam Diab, and Abdullah Al-Ali.

Al-Zawawi highlighted Kuwait’s progress in building a strong foundation in equestrian sports, noting the international and regional successes of its athletes. Rider Basma Al-Busaili earned three silver medals at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin. In comparison, Abdullah Al-Ali secured two gold medals at the 2023 Special Olympics National Games in Egypt.

She expressed full confidence in the Kuwaiti riders, who are training under the guidance of coaches Sarah Bou Hamdi and Mohammed Al-Kandari, to continue achieving excellence on the regional stage.

Al-Zawawi also extended her heartfelt appreciation to the athletes and their families for their dedication and support, emphasizing their crucial role in ensuring Kuwait’s success in this important Arab sporting event.