Doha (QAT) March 21, 2017: Come to think of it, the Qatar Gymnastics Federation (QGF) is one of the most active sports federations in the country.

In the last couple of years, there had been number of programmes which QGF had organised to show their strength and dedication in developing the sport in the region.

Even the world body, FIG, treats Doha as one of its important destinations. From its recent hosting coaching courses for women and judges to various other programmes, Qatar has become a hot spot on the world gymnastics map.

“QGF has done excellent work in promoting the sport at the grass-roots level. The Individual Apparatus World Cup shows Qatar’s ability to organise top events in the country. The annual competition is a proof of QGF’s dedication,” said FIG coach Takashi Kobayashi.

QGF has been working hard to have a talent pool since it was formed in 2000. They have been successful enough to produce several gymnasts who have done well at the GCC and Arab Championships.

“It’s difficult to retain some youngsters as they leave for other sports when they grow up, but we’re working out plans on how to keep them,” said QGF President Ali Ahmed Al Hitmi. “We’ve been able to create a platform for gymnasts through our development programmes and the schools have also shown keen interest,” said Al Hitmi.

Al Hitmi expressed hope the event would help the sport gain a firm footing.

“We’ve the support from the government and Qatar Olympic Committee. The FIG has also assisted us in the last few years. We’ll work together and do something amazing,” he added.

With another edition set to take off on Wednesday at the Aspire Dome, Al Hitmi will be hoping to enhance Qatar and QGF’s reputation during the four-day competition which will have some of the top Olympians and upcoming athletes from Australia, China, Romania and Turkey.