(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
Doha: Qatar Swimming Association (QSA) is preparing for another spectacular edition of Doha Open Water Challenge to be held on Doha's iconic Corniche, near Orry the Oryx Statue on February 15.
The Doha Open Water Challenge, open to the public, will be organised on the sidelines of a high-profile FINA/HOSA Marathon Swim World Series Doha (QAT) 2019.
Doha is the first of the eight stops in the prestigious series which will see top long-distance swimmers competing on February 16.
In the Doha Open Water Challenge, all Qatar residents above 11 years old can participate. The competition is aimed at giving the public an opportunity to experience what it is like to be an elite athlete.
'The Open Water Challenge is a FINA competition organised one day earlier from the Marathon, inviting the amateur swimmers of the host country; of all ages (11 and older) to race, experience, interact with the best swimmers of the sport and be inspired. A true legacy for the sport development, said Khaleel Al Jabir, President of QSA, and member of FINA Bureau in a statement. The Organising Committee is making all-out efforts to ensure maximum participation and best arrangements for the event.
The number of participants in this year's competition is expected to go higher due to an overwhelming response by the swimmers. Preparations are in full swing for the FINA/HOSA Marathon Swim World Series Doha (QAT) 2019
Meanwhile, preparations are in full swing for the FINA/HOSA Marathon Swim World Series Doha (QAT) 2019.
There are over 200 swimmers and officials from 24 countries already confirming their participation for the spectacular event.
The top-ranked swimmers in women's line-up include 2016 Rio Olympic gold medalist, Sharon Van Rouwendaal (NED), Rio Olympic Silver Medalist Rachele Bruni (ITA) and Arianna Bridi (ITA), the 2018 European Aquatics Championships Gold Medalist in the 25 km open water.
Overall FINA/HOSA series winner in 2016 and in the following year, Simone Ruffini (ITA), Gregorio Paltrinieri, who has several world and European records, and Kazan 2015 gold medalist, Jordan Matthew Wilimovsky (USA) will be competing in the men's race alongside other big names.
A thrilling race is guaranteed as swimmers will look to give their best in the year's first race, eyeing an early lead in the FINA/HOSA Marathon Swim World Series 2019.
Both the Doha Open Water Challenge and the FINA/HOSA Marathon Swim World Series Doha (QAT) 2019 will be free for the public to view from the Doha Corniche promenade.
Further information regarding the events can be obtained from the QSA website qatarswimming.com
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