Lamia Tariq Malallah, the only Emirati female rhythmic gymnast in the UAE, recently achieved a significant milestone by winning the gold medal at the Gymnastika Solo Cup held at the Al Nasr Club in Dubai. The competition featured top gymnasts from Europe, including national teams from Russia and Belarus. Despite the tough competition, the 13-year-old Lamia displayed exceptional skill and determination to secure the coveted gold medal. In an interview with Khaleej Times, Lamia expressed her happiness and gratitude for her accomplishment, especially considering the challenges she faced competing against highly trained gymnasts.
Lamia acknowledged the rigorous training regimens of her competitors from the Russian national team, who dedicate 8-9 hours a day to training compared to her four hours. Despite the stark contrast in training hours, Lamia maintained her focus and self-belief, which ultimately led to her success. The gold medal has not only brought recognition to Lamia but has also inspired her to aim for bigger events and represent her country on a larger platform. As the only female Emirati gymnast, Lamia feels a sense of responsibility and is determined to qualify for prestigious competitions like the world championships and Asian Games.
Balancing academic commitments with rigorous gymnastics training poses a challenge for Lamia, who is a grade seven student at the International School of Choueifat. Juggling schoolwork and training requires immense dedication and time management skills. Despite the demanding schedule, Lamia’s mother, Malak Alfarsi, has been a source of encouragement and support, guiding her daughter to prioritize her passion for gymnastics. Alfarsi, who has dedicated her life to helping Lamia pursue her dreams, hopes that the gold medal win at the Gymnastika Solo Cup will motivate Lamia to continue excelling in the sport and achieve greater success in the future.
Lamia’s victory at the Gymnastika Solo Cup is a testament to her perseverance, talent, and determination to excel in the highly competitive field of rhythmic gymnastics. Her triumph not only signifies personal achievement but also serves as a source of inspiration for aspiring gymnasts in the UAE. As she sets her sights on competing in prestigious international events, Lamia remains committed to honing her skills and representing her country with pride. With the unwavering support of her family and coaches, Lamia is poised to make a mark in the world of gymnastics and carve out a successful career in the sport.
