The silver medal won by Shaikh Juma Bin Dalmouk Al Maktoum, at the Asian Games in Guangzhou yesterday, should present the UAE's sports authorities with a few pointers. They should re-evaluate their approach to sport and realise, the current fortunes of the football team notwithstanding, that there is immense potential in individual sport.
Individual sportsmen and women have consistently been bringing honour to the country with their efforts. A comprehensive sports programme must be drawn up to help them realise their true potential.
Ensuring that athletes are exposed frequently to international competitions to help them hone their skills can pay rich dividends. The process of spotting and nurturing raw talent at home should also begin early. Sporting programmes developed to identify potential from the schools and grass roots level should be implemented as soon as possible. This approach has been successful before — the football team who are in line for a medal in Guangzhou are a case in point.
