Dubai is preparing to welcome a significant influx of talent and skill as the “Dubai Open Championship for Gymnastics Academies” gears up to make its mark on the region’s sports calendar. Scheduled to take place from May 23 to 25 at the Stamina11 Center in Dubai Studio City, this championship stands as one of the largest specialized gymnastics competitions in the area. Organized collaboratively by Stamina11 Center and the Dubai Sports Council (DSC), the event is poised to showcase the burgeoning gymnastics culture within the UAE and beyond.
With more than 750 athletes expected to participate, the championship will feature representatives from over 16 specialized gymnastics academies. This impressive turnout includes clubs from not only the UAE but also international competitors from Kuwait, Qatar, and Kenya. The geographic diversity of participants reflects the championship’s appeal and the growing interest in gymnastics as a competitive sport across the Middle East and Africa.
No major event is complete without star power, and this championship is no exception. The presence of Olympic champion Victoria Listunova, gold medalist at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a three-time European Games champion, elevates the event to a new level. She will serve as the guest of honor and will also perform a demonstration that promises to enthrall attendees. Alongside her, the Egyptian artistic gymnast Sherine El-Zeiny, a three-time Olympian, will also grace the event, adding to the excitement and fascination that surrounds this championship.
Farah Shawer, the Founder and CEO of Stamina11 Center, expressed pride in hosting such a prestigious competition, emphasizing it as a vital platform for elite young talents. “We look forward to delivering an exceptional championship that befits Dubai’s status as a global sports destination,” Shawer noted. She praised the DSC for its significant role in supporting this event, which aims to promote and enrich the gymnastics culture in the region.
The championship kicks off with a spectacular opening ceremony on Friday, May 23, at 3:00 PM. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere as Olympic champion Listunova opens the festivities with her demonstration performance. This will be complemented by a performance from Sherine El-Zeiny and an engaging welcome show featuring local young athletes. Following the opening, competitions for Level 2 will commence from 3:30 PM and run until 10:00 PM, setting the stage for an impressive display of athleticism and skill.
The excitement continues on Saturday, May 24, with competitions for Levels 1 and 3 scheduled from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM. The event culminates on Sunday, May 25, with higher-level competitions (Levels 4, 5, and 6) taking place from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. This structured timeline allows a wide range of gymnasts, ages 5 to 15, to take center stage, creating opportunities for young athletes to shine and refine their skills in this increasingly popular sport.
The championship also enjoys support from a range of prominent sponsors, including Judux, Noraal, and Appolonia Clinic. Their involvement signifies a strong belief in the event’s potential and the level of organization implemented to ensure a successful championship. This backing adds an additional layer of credibility and prestige to the event.
The organization of the Dubai Open Championship aligns with the DSC’s ongoing commitment to enhancing Dubai’s status as a global sports hub. The Council aims to nurture various sports disciplines, including gymnastics, which has seen a noticeable growth in youth participation. By facilitating events like this championship, the DSC is actively contributing to a vibrant sporting culture in Dubai.
Moreover, the DSC is keen on fostering partnerships with the private sector, acknowledging the importance of collaboration in enriching Dubai’s sporting landscape. This event not only highlights the capabilities of gymnastics clubs and academies but also serves to inspire a culture of physical activity and sportsmanship within the community. By investing in the development of gymnastics, the DSC is paving the way for future generations of athletes, ensuring that the spirit of competition and excellence continues to thrive in the region.
