Saudi Arabia celebrated a landmark moment in Canoe Sprint as Azza Amman became the first athlete from her nation to compete at an International Canoe Federation Canoe Sprint World Championships at any age category.
Her selection marks a significant milestone for Canoe Sprint in Saudi Arabia.
Amman progrsssed to the semifinals for the women’s junior kayak single 500m, and also finished just 0.3 seconds behind the United States paddler, Lynne Kato in her 200m heat.
"I am happy and proud to represent Saudi Arabia at the World Championships," said Amman.
"Halifax is a beautiful place to launch my career in kayaking, and I'm looking forward to seeing what I can achieve.”
The 17-year-old, who travels regularly to Dubai for training, spent the final month of her preparations for the World Championships in Budapest, Hungary.
She will soon head to the United States to continue her training.
Already a trailblazer for her country, she hopes her journey will encourage others to follow.
"Every career has its ups and downs, but growth is never linear. Just keep going," she said.
"I hope to inspire the next generation of Saudi Arabian paddlers."
Amman thanked the Minister of Sport, Saudi Canoe-Kayak Federation President Abdullah Aziz, and her parents for their support.
Saudi Arabia's Team Leader and Head Coach, Bela Kocsis, said the country's historic debut at the World Championships reflected the vision and support of the Kingdom's leadership.
"This historic year for Saudi canoe and kayak would not have been possible without the vision and unwavering support of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Faisal, Minister of Sport and President of the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee, and Abdulaziz bin Mubarak Al Suwaiket, Chairman of the Board of the Saudi Canoe-Kayak Federation," said Kocsis.
"Their commitment to Saudi Vision 2030 and belief in developing Saudi athletes have made these milestones possible. We are proud to represent the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and this is only the beginning of our Olympic journey."
ICF Vice President Dr. Cecilia Farias welcomed Saudi Arabia's breakthrough appearance and expressed hope it would encourage wider participation across the region.
"It is extremely important that, for the first time, a Saudi Arabian athlete has competed at the World Championships," Dr. Farias.
"We hope to see more athletes from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf region and beyond competing at junior, senior and masters level.
“As always, our shared ambition is to see more nations reach the Olympic podium."
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