Dubai: Abdullah Al Gurg will be running as a torchbearer in the London 2012 Olympics Torch Relay, according to a press release from the Eisa Saleh Al Gurg (ESAG) Charity Foundation. Abdullah Al Gurg will carry the torch through the London borough of Lambeth on July 26.
Speaking on his selection, Al Gurg said, "I am humbled by this opportunity granted by Lloyds TSB and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games committee. It is an honour I accept on behalf of the ESAG Charity Foundation and my fellow countrymen. I hope my participation will contribute in a small manner to emphasise the inspirational power of the Games that unites people from all over the world."
Charity activities
Through ESAG Charity Foundation, Al Gurg has been instrumental in dispensing funding and aid in excess of $9 million (Dh33.04 million) to various causes both within the UAE and across the world. These amounts have been disbursed mainly for building educational and health centres and mosques in the UAE and Tanzania and providing pure drinking water to remote hamlets in India. Other major donations include aid to victims of famine in Somalia and the Horn of Africa, education support for needy students in the UAE and supporting the efforts of special need instructors and care-givers.
The 70-day Olympic Torch Relay will start at Land's End, Cornwall on the morning of May 19. On leaving Land's End, the Olympic Flame will travel an estimated 8,000 miles around the UK giving thousands of communities and individuals their moment to shine as the Olympic Flame comes to a place near them. The Olympic flame will arrive at the Olympic Stadium on July 27 for the lighting of the cauldron at the opening ceremony, signifying the official start of the London 2012 Olympic Games.
