Qatar’s swimming and handball teams to take centre stage today at Rio

The second day of competition at the Rio 2016 Olympics will see Qatar’s athletes compete across swimming, handball, boxing and beach volleyball.

For Qatar sports fans, all eyes will be on young swimming sensation Noah Al Khulaifi, who will make his Olympic debut on Sunday in the 100M backstroke. The 17 year old, who is also the second youngest on the Qatar team, already holds 14 GCC records and seeks to set a further personal and national record in Rio.

Speaking ahead of the biggest day of his career, Al Khulaifi said: “Up until now, I haven’t really grasped the magnitude of being in the Olympics but I’m trying not to let the pressure of the occasion get to me. However it’s very special to be here and part of this.

“Being at the athletes village hasn’t blown my mind but it’s filled with superstars. I didn’t really expect to see such legends walking around like normal people. From NBA stars to Michael Phelps who I saw in the pool, things were just ‘wow,’” he said.

“In terms of what I want to achieve for this Olympics, I’m looking to develop my own personal growth and experience because I’m still only 17. Honestly I’m trying to keep myself grounded and set best times and national records. I see this as a really good stepping stone for the future.”

After a hugely impressive second place finish in the World Handball Championships in Doha in 2015, the Qatar Handball team will enter the games with great hopes, expectations and local interest.

The Olympics is another step up as Qatar’s team captain Abdulrazzaq Ahmed Murad commented: “For Qatar, this is everyone’s dream. And soon, our dream of winning a medal will become a reality. But it’ll be a tough challenge. After our performance in the World Championships, all nations are wary of us. They know we’re a force to be reckoned with but we’re prepared for that! We’ll do all we can and leave the rest to God.

To follow the hopes and dreams of Team Qatar or to show your support and leave messages please go to Qatar Olympic Committee’s social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and follow the #YallaQatar campaign or the QOC website at www.olympic.qa