By Raynald C Rivera
DOHA: Katara’s inaugural Al Habal bird hunting competition has succeeded in introducing to young Qataris a vital element of their heritage, says Katara General Manager Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti.
Speaking at the awarding ceremony yesterday, he said the competition organised for the first time in Qatar and the region has achieved its goals, having the new generation set foot on their roots by getting acquainted with an important aspect of their forefathers’ heritage linked to wildlife.
He hoped the new generation continues to connect with their heritage which embodies their national identity.
The competition saw 12 teams with 48 participants and this could expand in the future in terms of the number of competitors and scope, Al Habal Competition Coordinator Khalifa Metraf Al Humaidi told this daily.
“This is the first time such a competition has been held in Qatar and the Gulf. We will look into the possibility of expanding it in the region. “Children are preoccupied with new technology and forget the traditions of their forefathers. Through this competition, we remind them of their heritage as we pass on to them this significant aspect of our tradition we inherited from our ancestors,” he added.
The contest is one of the most loved by youth in the region during which birds are hunted with traps made from tree branches. It was held last week at Arkiah farm of Hassad Qatar and included lectures and workshops on the types of birds and steps to make traps.
“The competition promotes physical health and teamwork among participants as they hunt for birds together in the desert,” said Al Habal Competition Head Ali Yousuf Ahmad Al Kuwari.
The Al Rowais team won first place, Al Jarian team second. The third place was shared by Wajbah, Zubair and Dafna Al Ghariah teams. The winning teams were awarded QR10,000; QR8,000 and QR5,000, respectively. All contestants also received participation plaques.
The Peninsula
