Azure Beach on Qetaifan Island in Lusail City hosted the QTri Aquathlon 2026, a swimming and running race organized by the Qatar Sports for All Federation in partnership with the Ministry of Sports and Youth, in collaboration with the QTri Sports Club. The event forms part of ongoing efforts to promote physical activity and encourage healthy lifestyles across the community.

The race began at 7:00 am on Saturday morning in a vibrant sporting and family-friendly atmosphere. The event attracted broad participation from people of various nationalities and age groups, including men, children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Approximately 260 participants took part, reflecting the growing popularity of community sports events. Throughout the year, the Qatar Sports for All Federation delivers a comprehensive calendar of more than 850 activities and events, aimed at engaging all segments of society in sports and physical activity.

The aquathlon combines swimming and running disciplines. Participants competed in the main race, which featured a 1-kilometer swim immediately followed by a 5-kilometer run, with a rapid transition between stages that added excitement and competitiveness to the event. The race program also included various challenges for youth and children, as well as an open 5-kilometer recreational run, allowing a wider range of participants to enjoy the sporting experience.

Mr. Abdullah Al Dosari, Executive Director of the Qatar Sports for All Federation, stated that organizing the Aquathlon reflects the Federation’s vision of making sport a daily way of life rather than a seasonal activity. He noted that cooperation with QTri Sports Club helps expand community participation and raise awareness of the importance of physical activity, while emphasizing high-quality organization, community diversity, and the link between sport and public health.

He added that the participation of around 260 competitors from different nationalities and age groups demonstrates increasing interest in such events and confirms the success of this distinctive initiative. He described the race as a model of partnership among sports organizations in Qatar, contributing to the promotion of sports culture, public health, and Qatar’s position as a leading destination for community sporting events. Al Dosari also praised initiatives such as the Qatar Youth Platform, noting that they provide valuable opportunities for young people to participate in sports activities and contribute to the success of community events.

For his part, Fahad Mubarak Al Qaroun, Executive Director of QTri Sports Club, expressed his satisfaction with the significant success of this year’s edition, particularly the increase in participant numbers compared to previous years, which reflects the event’s growth and expanding popularity. He emphasized the club’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive sporting experience while continuously improving organizational standards year after year.

He also highlighted the event’s professional organization, including the use of accurate electronic timing systems, efficient management of transition zones, and strict adherence to technical requirements to ensure participant safety and high-quality competition.