The torch of the Saudi Games 2024 has returned to the capital, Riyadh, after a 30-day journey across the regions of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, covering over 3,500 kilometers.
The torch is not just a sports symbol but also represents the noble values embodied by the Saudi Games and spreads a message of peace and friendship to all it reaches. Similarly, it is not simply a celebration of the Olympic spirit but a symbol of human unity, spreading messages of motivation to every individual in the Kingdom to participate in this exceptional annual sporting event.
Launched in 2022 with generous support from wise leadership, the torch aims to contribute to realizing Vision 2030’s goals. It does so by actively participating in the Quality of Life program, promoting physical activity in society, and striving for excellence in various sports on both regional and global levels.
The torch traveled to various regions of the Kingdom and was celebrated in at least 17 cities. Numerous processions visited significant cultur
al, historical, and tourist landmarks. The torch was accompanied by champions and influencers who had made significant contributions to the nation. For example, Ahmed Eid, the first president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), was the first to carry the torch from the governor of Diriyah, Prince Fahd bin Saad bin Abdullah.
Other notable figures who participated in the torch relay included Mohammed Al-Mukhalis, a world gold medalist in Jiu-Jitsu; Talal Al-Balawi, a Paralympic weightlifting champion; Youssef Masrahi, an athletics champion; and Nawaf Al-Temyat, the Asian Player of the Year in 2000.
The torch also visited at least 47 cultural and historical landmarks, including the Bujairi District in Diriyah, Jabal Ikmah and the Mughayra Heritage Sports Village in AlUla, the Bajdah Desert in NEOM, and Wadi Lajab in Jazan.
Athletes participating in the games this year will compete for prizes totaling SAR200 million. Gold medalists will receive SAR1 million, silver medalists SAR300,000, and bronze
medalists SAR100,000. In the youth category, gold medalists will receive SAR100,000, silver medalists SAR50,000, and bronze medalists SAR25,000.
The Saudi Games significantly impact the sports system in the Kingdom. The previous edition generated nearly $SAR750 million in economic activity, with a total prize money exceeding SAR260 million. The event also led to the creation of 478 jobs, with a total workforce exceeding 4,950.
More than 9,000 athletes, technicians, and administrators from 147 clubs and 25 Paralympic clubs participated, along with 22 sports academies from different parts of the Kingdom. The competitions included 52 sports and over 226 individual and team events, with six sports dedicated to the Paralympics and 12 sports for youth categories. The competitions were hosted in approximately 31 sports facilities.
Source: Saudi Press Agency