Bahrain: History Makers
In a landmark moment for gender equality in sports, the recent U-15 and U-20 Asian Wrestling Championship held in Bahrain witnessed the participation of two trailblazing female athletes from Jordan, Maya Ishakat and Maya Qtaishat. Wrestling for Peace Ambassador, Dan Russell, was present to recognize this historic achievement. The event, which took place at the Khalifa Sports City Arena, marked the first time in the championship's history that women from Jordan competed alongside their male counterparts.
The continental competition, which commenced on July 2nd, 2022 and concluded on July 10th, was organized by the Bahrain Wrestling Association in collaboration with the Bahrain Mixed Martial Arts Council and the Asian Wrestling Federation. Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports, and General Sports Authority Chair, the championship garnered attention for its inclusivity and promotion of gender diversity in sports.
A total of forty-two female participants from various countries including India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, South Korea, Mongolia, Tajikistan, Taiwan, and Uzbekistan graced the arena with their formidable wrestling skills. Among them, two female wrestlers stood out as pioneers for Jordan, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
The presence of female wrestlers in the championship signifies a significant step forward in the journey toward gender equality in sports, particularly in regions where cultural norms and societal expectations have historically hindered women's participation in athletic pursuits. Their inclusion not only empowers women athletes but also sends a powerful message of inclusivity, acceptance, and equal opportunity within the wrestling community and beyond.
HH First Deputy Chairman Al Khalifa graced the final day of the championship, which featured the U-20 Freestyle class. He commended the efforts of the organizing committee led by Bahrain Wrestling Association Chairman, Abada Adnan Al-Mulla, in ensuring the success of the event and fostering an environment of fairness and sportsmanship.
During the event, HH Al Khalifa had the honor of meeting with Daulet Turlykhanov, President of the Asian Wrestling Federation. Turlykhanov conveyed warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations, expressing appreciation for the successful inaugural edition of the U-15 and U-20 Asian Wrestling Championship in Bahrain and acknowledging the pivotal role played by all stakeholders in making the event a resounding triumph.
The participation of two female wrestlers from Jordan marks a historic milestone for the sport and also serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes, regardless of gender. Their courage modeled the spirit of sportsmanship, inspiring generations to come, and reaffirming the principle that talent knows no boundaries. Gender should never be a barrier to pursuing one's dreams in sports. As the wrestling community celebrates this momentous occasion, it also looks forward to a future where inclusivity, diversity, and equality reign supreme both on and off the mat.