The Paris 2024 Olympics kicked off with a dazzling opening ceremony that saw millions around the world tuning in to witness the spectacle. For debutant Ali Anwar Al Balushi from Oman, it was a moment of immense pride as he, along with fellow sprinter Mazoon Al Alawi, carried the Sultanate’s flag during the ceremony. Al Balushi expressed his gratitude for being chosen as the flagbearer, calling it a historic moment that he will cherish for life. The 22-year-old sprinter qualified directly for the Olympics, making the occasion even more special for him.
Oman’s delegation at the opening ceremony also included officials from the Oman Olympic Committee (OOC) such as Khalid Mohammed Al Zubair, Chairman of OOC, and Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Oraimi, Oman’s ambassador to France. Dressed in traditional Omani attire, the delegation shared the barge with representatives from New Zealand, Uzbekistan, Uganda, and Pakistan as they made their way down River Seine. Mazoon, who is participating in her third consecutive Olympics, expressed her excitement at being chosen as a flagbearer this time, describing the atmosphere at the ceremony as enjoyable despite the rain.
In preparation for his debut at the Games, shooter Said al Khatri from Oman will have his first official training session at the Châteauroux Shooting Centre. He will kick off Oman’s campaign at the Olympics with the preliminary round in the Men’s Trap event. Al Khatri expressed his motivation to deliver his best performance at the world’s greatest stage while representing Oman. With the spotlight on Omani athletes like Al Balushi, Mazoon, and Al Khatri, the country has high hopes for a successful outing at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The Paris 2024 Olympics have brought together athletes from around the globe to compete in a variety of sports. For Oman, it marks a significant moment as the country’s delegation, led by flagbearers Ali Anwar Al Balushi and Mazoon Al Alawi, participated in the dazzling opening ceremony. The pride and excitement felt by the Omani athletes were evident as they shared the stage with representatives from other nations and showcased their traditional attire. With officials from the Oman Olympic Committee also present at the event, the support for the country’s athletes was palpable as they embarked on their Olympic journey.
Ali Anwar Al Balushi’s journey to the Olympics is nothing short of inspirational, having qualified directly for the Games and then being selected as Oman’s flagbearer. The historic moment of leading his country’s delegation down River Seine during the opening ceremony will be etched in Al Balushi’s memory forever. Likewise, Mazoon Al Alawi expressed her joy at being chosen as a flagbearer for Oman, adding a special touch to her third consecutive Olympic appearance. The camaraderie shared among the athletes from different nations at the opening ceremony set the stage for a thrilling Olympic competition ahead.
As Oman’s shooter, Said al Khatri, gears up for his debut at the Games, the country’s athletes are focused and determined to make their mark on the world stage. With the support of the Oman Olympic Committee and the nation behind them, Al Balushi, Mazoon, and Al Khatri are poised to give their best performances in their respective events. The Paris 2024 Olympics provide a platform for Omani athletes to showcase their talent, dedication, and sportsmanship to the world. With the excitement of the opening ceremony behind them, the athletes are ready to embark on their Olympic journey with pride and determination.