Olympic champion welcomes the hosting of the world championship in Azerbaijan

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Mohammed Bin Hasher Al Maktoum, the President of the United Arab Emirates Shooting Federation, is among those watching the 53rd ISSF World Shooting Championships held in Baku.

The Olympic Champion, who earned UAE its first-ever gold medal in shooting during the Athens Olympic games, answered Report’s questions.

- What are your impressions of Azerbaijan and Baku?

- This is my second visit to your country. People from our country like Azerbaijan very much. I am one of them. The interesting thing is that Azerbaijan is not beautiful in one season, but all year round. Both summer and winter are interesting. Everything for human comfort is here: nature, mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers.

- How does the tournament in Baku look from the outside?

- First of all, I welcome the holding of such a great competition in Azerbaijan. Everyone is here, participants and representatives of federations from more than 100 countries are here. The organizing committee organized all the work magnificently. The system works like a Rolex watch. It is felt from the first minutes.

- How are the shooting ranges?

- The center itself is very perfect. All conditions have been created for shooting. No one can make excuses for anything. Hence the results and scores are high. Interestingly, stand, pistol, and rifle shooting are concentrated in the same place. Everyone can see each other, meet, and establish relationships. This is a factor that makes sports beautiful.

- You were once a professional shooter yourself. Looks like you're not in shooting anymore.

- I am a gold medalist at the Athens Olympics. In addition, I have won the world cup 6 times. I ended my professional career in 2005. I am now resting and taking care of my family.

- It is also possible to see shooters from the UAE at the World Championship. How realistic is it for them to win a medal?

- We have selected the best of our country. But they are not at a high enough level to compete with shooters from other countries. At present, the main goal before us is to attract young people and achieve their development.