Sporting heroes turned out to share their experiences and advice as national federations organised activities across Qatar for all ages and abilities.

“Our athletes are an inspiration to our nation and are excellent role models for our young people and we are delighted that so many of them were able to join in the celebrations today and pass on their experiences and guidance to aspiring young athletes," said President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani.

“National Sport Day provides a unique opportunity to unite our nation through sport and share the Olympic spirit, and it is pleasing to see such large numbers of people turning out with their families and friends to participate in the many activities across Qatar.

"This is about more than just one day of sport – it is about kick-starting a future of health, happiness and success and we hope today’s festivities have inspired people of all ages and abilities to participate in regular activity at any level.”

Sheikh Joaan and QOC Secretary General Thani Abdulrahman Al Kuwari joined in National Sport Day activities taking place across the country.

Also participating were leaders of international sport, including chief executive of the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), Olivier Gers, and President of the International School Sport Federation (ISF), Laurent Petrynka. 

Katara, a cultural village, played host to multiple national federations organising an array of activities.

Rio 2016 Olympians Fares Ibrahim and Kamal Mallash joined in the activities and spoke to the public about their Rio 2016 experiences.

Ibrahim, a weightlifter, had a breakthrough year in 2016 with a bronze medal in the World Youth Championships before finishing in eighth place at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games in the men's 85 kilograms event.

Mallash was a member of Qatar’s handball team that won silver at the 2015 World Championships before being eliminated by Germany at Rio 2016 in the quarter-finals.

“It has been amazing to see so many people playing and loving handball today and it is great to watch how the sport has taken off in Qatar since the World Championships in 2015," added Mallash.

"There was a lot of talent out there today and I hope that they all continue to play the sport."

Qatar's National Sport Day was established in 2012 with the aim of "uniting the nation in a shared celebration of sport and inspiring people to lead active and healthy lifestyles."

Qatar is one of the only countries in the world to dedicate a public holiday to sport.