Doha, Qatar – The 17th Qatar International Falconry and Hunting Festival (Marmi 2024) has announced the winners of its “Promising Falconer” Championship, a key event designed to cultivate the next generation of practitioners in this traditional sport. Held at the Marmi Sabkha in Sealine, the festival, under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, continues to draw participants and spectators until December 24th. The focus on youth development highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve falconry as a vital part of Qatari heritage.
Investing in the Future of Falconry
The “Promising Falconer” Championship specifically targets young individuals aged 6 to 15, providing a competitive platform for them to showcase their skills. This year’s competition featured a 200-meter course and specific regulations regarding falcon size, with a maximum length of 15 inches. According to festival organizers, the initiative aims to foster a passion for falconry and ensure its continuation for years to come.
Championship Results
In the Kobaj, Qarmousha, and Wakri category, Imran Nasser Al Qubaisi secured first place, followed by Abdullah Omair Al Nuaimi, Majid Mohammed Al Qahtani, Saleh Mohammed Jassim Sultan, and Mohammed Salem Mohammed Jarallah Al Nabti, completing the top five. The Al-Shuwayhna category saw Ali Mohammed Al-Marri take the top spot, with Ali Mohammed Al-Asiri, Amer Abdullah Al-Kaabi, Saeed Abdullah Obaid, and Ali Jarallah Al-Ghayathin rounding out the leading contenders.
Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Ali, Head of Committees and Official Spokesperson for the Marmi Festival, emphasized the festival’s commitment to nurturing young talent. He stated that the inclusion of the “Promising Falconer” category demonstrates a long-term vision for enhancing falconry skills among the younger generation. This builds on previous efforts with a Junior Falconer category, allowing participants to progress and refine their abilities.
To ensure the safety and encourage participation of younger falconers, the organizing committee has adjusted the competition parameters. The “Dawa” (falconry) distances have been reduced to approximately 200 meters, making the challenge more accessible while still maintaining a competitive spirit. This adjustment reflects a thoughtful approach to developing skills appropriate for each age group.
Additionally, the festival has seen former junior participants now competing alongside seasoned professionals in other stages of the event, demonstrating the success of the developmental programs. This integration of skill levels contributes to a dynamic and enriching experience for all involved. The festival also supports hunting traditions and conservation efforts.
Al-Talaa Championship Qualifiers
Meanwhile, qualifying rounds for the Al-Talaa Championship, encompassing groups five through ten, were held yesterday. Faisal Jaber Al-Buraidi, Abdulhadi Obaid Al-Mahran Al-Marri, Abdulhadi Jaber Abdulhadi Jaber Hussein, and the Barzan team successfully qualified for the next stage. However, no falcons advanced from group seven, highlighting the intense competition within the championship.
Rashdan Obaid Al-Rashdan, Vice Chairman of the Al-Talaa Committee, noted the high level of preparation and enthusiasm displayed by the participants. He explained that the qualifying rounds were characterized by strong competition, with falcons demonstrating readiness for the challenges ahead. Favorable weather conditions, including clear visibility, also contributed to the success of the competitions, particularly for the houbara bustard hunts.
The Marmi Festival continues to be a significant cultural event in Qatar, attracting both local and international participants. The festival’s dedication to preserving traditional practices, alongside its investment in the next generation of falconers, underscores its importance in safeguarding Qatari heritage.
The festival will continue with further rounds of the Al-Talaa Championship and other competitions. Organizers are expected to announce the schedule for the final stages of the Al-Talaa Championship in the coming days, with the ultimate winners to be determined before the festival concludes on December 24th. The performance of the newly qualified falconers and teams will be a key area to watch as they progress through the competition.
