Doha 2015 launch penultimate “My Incredible Story” film as IPC Athletics World Championships draw closer

Thuraya al Zaabi competed at the Beijing 2008 and London 2012 Paralympic Games ©Doha 2015

Doha 2015 have launched the penultimate film in their “My Incredible Story” series which features competitors set to compete at the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Athletics World Championships.

With competition set to get underway in Qatar’s capital city next Wednesday (October 21) the latest film aims to raise further awareness of the Championships, set to be the largest Para-sport event ever staged in the Middle East.

The latest film focuses on the impact athletics has had on the life of Thuraya al Zaabi, who made history at Beijing 2008 when she became the first female athlete to represent the United Arab Emirates at a Paralympic Games.

Thuraya, who took up athletics after being paralysed down the left side of her body following a stroke, followed up her appearance at Beijing by competing at London 2012 and is now due to take part in the javelin and shot put F32-34 events in Doha.

“It was my physical situation that led me to take up Para-athletics,” she said in the film.

“It is very difficult and requires greater effort but that shouldn’t stop us from riding this wave and demonstrating that Para-athletes can overcome their disability, excel and take Para-athletics to a higher level.

“Sport to me is hope, it is giving, it renewed my weak muscles and also moved me from a state of reclusiveness and depression to a state of hope, determination and a perpetual smile.”

Her story is the latest in the five-part series produced by Doha 2015 to showcase the obstacles, challenges and journeys faced by athletes competing in the Championships and is aimed to break down barriers and change perceptions.

Thani Abdulrahman Al-Kuwari, President of Doha 2015 and secretary general of the Qatar Olympic Committee, claimed Thuraya has been a fine asset to the campaign and hopes her story will encourage more fans to buy tickets to the Championships.

“We hope that her story will empower people everywhere to see that anything is possible whatever your circumstance,” he said.

“Thuraya will be joined by many other incredible athletes from across the Middle East and around the world who will inspire and amaze spectators at the IPC Athletics Championships next week.

“We encourage everyone to get their tickets now and come down and witness the incredible world of para-sport first-hand.”

The series has already featured sprinters Terezinha Guilhermina of Brazil, America’s Jarryd Wallace and Italy’s Giusy Versace, with the a fifth film set to be unveiled prior to the Championships which will see around 1,300 of the para-athletes from over 100 countries compete at Qatar Sports Club in the event which is scheduled to last until October 31.