Georgetown University Joins in Qatar Foundation Walkathon in Celebration of Qatar National Sport Day

Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q) marked the 4th annual National Sport Day by supporting Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development (QF) in a variety of activities taking place throughout Education City and by taking part in a walkathon across Education City grounds from Shaqab stadium to the Awsaj Academy. The walkathon encompassed individual legs where participants joined in fun and educational activities aimed to inspire community members to lead healthier and more active lifestyles.

GU-Q faculty and staff displayed Georgetown pride by wearing Georgetown clothing while partaking in an extensive program with activities for all ages organized throughout the Education City. Many employees and their families started the day at the Indoor Arena in Shaqab with the family themed derby, pony rides, horse-riding lessons and group activities. With a starting point at Shaqab outdoor arena the walkathon also served as an opportunity to explore Qatar Foundation facilities while learning more about the importance of healthy living, sports and exercise. Along the route there were multiple stops featuring information and activities about the relevant facility. The marker at Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar invited walkers to stop and pedal the “smoothie bikes” to both exercise and create their own healthy drink.

The walkathon concluded at Awsaj Academy which showcased a range of ladies-only exercise classes and a selection of games for the children. 

Adopted by Emiri Decree in December of 2011, Qatar National Sport Day is celebrated annually on the second Tuesday in February with the aim of promoting the importance of sport and encouraging the people of Qatar to adopt active and healthier lifestyles.

GU- Q Director of Communications Moamer Qazafi participated in the walk and noted, “I have to admit I was skeptical at first about the concept of a national sport related holiday. However, all the activities now offered in Qatar have changed my entire family’s behavior.  We are starting to walk more both at work with our ‘walk-talk meetings’ and we are engaging in more outdoor activities.  We’ve gotten bikes and are now participating in more physical exercise than before.  While I personally have a long way to go to get back into shape, I am grateful that this endeavor is important to Qatar and that there are resources continuously being dedicated for it every year.”

Embracing the main goals of Sports Day, GU-Q community organizes activities and campaigns year-round to promote fitness and healthy lifestyle. Mary Bryan the Health and Wellness Officer at GU-Q noted, “We are constantly encouraging our community members to become more active. We offer classes for employees and are also offering a mindfulness work/life balancing program to support and inspire more health-conscious lifestyles.”