GWANGJU – Alaa Teeti and Malik Aboualrob, two Palestinian athletes in Taekwondo are taking part in the Universiade and are eager to do their best.
The small delegation faced several obstacles to ensure its country flag could be present at the games. “It always strenuous and stressful to travel outside our country, a lot of control and checkpoints obstruct us. Those barriers gave us the strength to be here among all those amazing people”, said Jamal Shaker, the Palestinian head of delegation.
An intensive preparation was held in Palestine before the Universiade, however, the lack of resources didn’t allow other competent athletes to join the delegation. Nevertheless, Alaa Eddine Titi insisted to come and he gave the Universiade priority over his university summer class. According to the HOD, Palestinian Youth don’t give up easily, they try, they fall, they learn and they stand up again to walk forward until they achieve their goals.
The Universiade gave the Palestinian delegation the opportunity to present their country which was unknown to different athletes her in Korea. Their participation in the Universiade is giving the Palestinian people hope and belief in the new generation that will peacefully make a change.
Henda Maarfi (TUN), FISU Young Reporter