Asian Games torch set for return to Qatar

24 Nov 2006

Doha: The 15th Asian Games Doha 2006 Torch will return to the host city tomorrow for a triumphant homecoming after an exciting journey covering 14 Asian countries and regions spanning more than 50,000kms.

The arrival of the Torch in Doha marks the culmination of the longest relay in the history of the Games. The Torch which is expected to arrive at the Al Shamal Port at approximately 2.30pm on a traditional dhow from Bahrain, will be carried by Shaikh Jouan Bin Hamad Al Thani, the 15th Asian Games Torch Relay Ambassador.

The Torch arrival will be marked by a spectacular welcome ceremony at Al Shamal Port, with children showering petals followed by a cultural show by traditional performers.

Following its arrival in Qatar, nearly 1,000 Qatari residents representing 67 nationalities will carry the Torch through Al Zubara, Dukhan, the Inland Sea, Al Wakra, Al Khor and finally the city of Doha over seven days, culminating at the Khalifa Stadium on December 1 to mark the much-awaited Opening Ceremony of the 15th Asian Games.

"The arrival of the Doha 2006 Torch will be the first taste of celebrations that residents of Qatar will experience over the coming weeks. The journey of the Games Torch has touched the hearts of millions of people around the world and it now makes its way home to Qatar a prelude to the biggest sporting event in the region," said Sharif Hashisho, Director of Ceremonies and Cultural Events, DAGOC, in a press briefing held at the Main Press Centre.

The Relay's first destination was the Indian capital of New Delhi, which hosted the first Asian Games in 1951.

It then made stopovers at Korea, Philippines, Japan, China, Macau-China, Hong Kong-China, Indonesia, Thailand, Iran, Oman, UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain before returning to Qatar.

Nearly 2,500 Torchbearers carried the Flame for a distance of up to 500 metres each during its international run.

It was carried across land, sea and air and travelled by various means of transport.