The Bahrain Tournament for Falcon and Hunting began on Thursday 7 January 2016 at Al Sabkha area near Bahrain International Endurance Village with the participation of 1500 local and regional contesters.
HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Charity Works and Youth Affairs, Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and President of Bahrain Olympic Committee deputed HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports and President of Bahrain Athletic Federation to attend the opening ceremony of the tournament, which was also attended by HH Shaikh Faisal bin Rashid, President of Bahrain Equestrian and Endurance Federation and a number of members of the Royal Family.
HH Shaikh Khalid inspected the site of the tournament and met with the heads of the organising committees and the participating contesters on the first day.
He lauded the efforts of the organising committee in providing the perfect atmosphere for the many participants who are taking part in the championship.
He said the tournament comes as a result of the efforts of HH Shaikh Nasser to strengthen traditional games and promote national heritage among the younger generations. HH Shaikh Khalid wished the contesters the very best for the tournament that will continue for the next five weeks.
On his part, HH Shaikh Faisal hailed HH Shaikh Nasser for directing to annually organise the tournament and contribute in preserving the traditions of the people of Bahrain and the GCC region.
The first day of the tournament saw the attendance of a large number of local and regional spectators. It was also covered by Bahrain Sports Channel and Al Sahraa TV Channel.