Over 100 Afghan athletes to compete in 19th Asian Games

KABUL (Agencies): The 19th Asian Games have officially commenced in Hangzhou, China. This major sporting event, which was delayed by a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, marks the first time in over a decade that China has hosted an event of this magnitude.
The games feature more than 12,000 athletes from 45 countries worldwide, competing in 40 different sports. Among the participants are 100 athletes from Afghanistan, competing in 17 sports.
This represents a significant milestone for the country, reflecting the growth of a young generation of athletes.
The Afghan Olympic Committee has expressed optimism about the performance of their athletes in these games.
They have reported on the intensive training and full readiness of the athletes, indicating a bright presence in the Asian Games.
Experts also suggest that Afghan athletes could potentially surprise in the Asian Games, given their preparation and potential.
Khaama Press adds: A group of Afghan female athletes living abroad are participating in the 19th Asian Games, which are being held in China.
The 19th edition of the Asian Games is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 26th of September, in the city of Hangzhou, China, at 3:30 Afghanistan time.
According to reports, this competition considered the largest sporting event in Asia, will feature Afghan athletes from inside and outside the country.
In this competition, 17 Afghan female athletes are set to represent Afghanistan following the restrictions imposed by the Taliban administration on women’s sports participation abroad.
These Afghan female athletes from various countries will compete in disciplines such as cycling, volleyball, and athletics.
Simultaneously with this mission, the spokesperson of the Olympic Committee in Afghanistan announced during a media briefing. He revealed that approximately 130 male athletes will participate in these competitions, competing in 17 different sports disciplines, including volleyball, judo, and wrestling.
Meanwhile, approximately 12,500 athletes from 40 different sports disciplines, hosted by Xi Jinping’s China, compete in these games. Seventeen women represent Afghan women and girls worldwide in the 19th edition of the Asian Games hosted by China.
After the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan in August 2021, they banned women and girls from participating in sports, education, and employment.