Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid opens 2014 IPC Powerlifting World Championship

DUBAI, April 6th 2014 (WAM) -- Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of National Olympic Committee, yesterday officially opened the 2014 IPC Powerlifting World Championships which is being organised by International Paralympic Committee (IPC) in Dubai between 5-11 April ill be held at the Dubai Club for the Disabled.

Some 360 athletes from 65 countries, including all 20 current senior world record holders and more than 30 medallists from London 2012, are competing in the event.

In his remarks at the opening of the event, Sir Philip Craven, President of the IPC, highlighted the importance of the championship for all athletes as it will see the start of the qualification process on the road to Rio 2016 in Brazil. The 2014 world championships in Dubai are the latest stop for athletes on their road to Rio.

A number of senior officials attended the opening ceremony along with U.A.E. former paralympic champions and gold medalists and sports enthusiasts.