The Filipino Expatriates Sepak Takraw Association (Festa) in Qatar recognised the winners of its Friendship Cup 2021 tournament, which saw the participation of teams from different expatriate communities in Doha.
The Philippines A team bagged the championship, besting Malaysia A (first runner-up), Philippines B (second runner-up) and Malaysia B (third runner-up). Other teams that took part in the event – held at Pearling Season International School in Mansoura – were Japan and Thailand.
“I hope this renewed interest in our passion despite the Covid-19 pandemic will foster unity and promote the sport among citizens and residents as Qatar is set to host the Asian Games in 2030,” Festa Qatar president Janno Rhey Soriano said.
Founded in 2014, Festa Qatar has been promoting Sepak Takraw (kick volleyball) in Qatar and regularly holds various initiatives aimed at helping players and students back home, including those who are in need.
Sepak Takraw Community of Malaysia in Qatar founder Ariff said it was a privilege to participate in the tournament, saying they enjoyed playing a Southeast Asian sport in the Middle East.
Japan team captain Yo Osugi said, “In the first place, I did not have any idea that we had a Sepak Takraw sports (tournament) here in Qatar. The last time I played was when I was in Osaka with my teammates.”
Sueksa, a Thailander working in a spa in Qatar, added: “We played our traditional sport in Qatar that was amazing and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“I hope this renewed interest in our passion despite the Covid-19 pandemic will foster unity and promote the sport among citizens and residents as Qatar is set to host the Asian Games in 2030,” Festa Qatar president Janno Rhey Soriano said.
Founded in 2014, Festa Qatar has been promoting Sepak Takraw (kick volleyball) in Qatar and regularly holds various initiatives aimed at helping players and students back home, including those who are in need.
Sepak Takraw Community of Malaysia in Qatar founder Ariff said it was a privilege to participate in the tournament, saying they enjoyed playing a Southeast Asian sport in the Middle East.
Japan team captain Yo Osugi said, “In the first place, I did not have any idea that we had a Sepak Takraw sports (tournament) here in Qatar. The last time I played was when I was in Osaka with my teammates.”
Sueksa, a Thailander working in a spa in Qatar, added: “We played our traditional sport in Qatar that was amazing and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
