Falconry Thrills Return—200 Falcons, 6 Races, One Epic Day!

Nearly 200 falconers participated in the preparatory “activation championship,” marking the official kickoff of the 11th edition of the Nasser bin Hamad Falconry and Hunting Season. Competitors took part in six different race categories designed to warm up athletes ahead of the main events.

The activation championship serves as an important starting point for falconers before entering the season’s key competitions. This year’s programme features a series of local races, along with participation in regional tournaments across the GCC, further strengthening Bahrain’s presence in traditional sports.

Mohammed bin Ayed Al Adhba Al Marri, Chairman of the Nasser bin Hamad Falconry and Hunting Season, emphasized that the support and guidance of Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport, have played a crucial role in raising the level of the season year after year. He noted that Shaikh Nasser has set a pioneering model in preserving national heritage and promoting traditional sports within the Bahraini community.

Al Marri added that the activation championship is a key milestone in boosting the readiness of falconers before the main races of the season. He highlighted that the event supports the broader vision of expanding participation and developing the skills of young and emerging falconers across various categories.

He also noted the strong support of Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport, Chairman of the General Sports Authority, and President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee. This support, he said, has opened new horizons for traditional sports and strengthened competitiveness.

The current season features a rich calendar of activities, including falconry competitions, traditional Arabian horse races, camel races with human riders, and the “Heritage School,” which reflects Shaikh Nasser’s commitment to cultivating a new generation connected to authenticity and cultural heritage. These efforts underline Bahrain’s leading role in preserving and promoting Arab heritage.

The Nasser bin Hamad Falconry and Hunting Season continues until February, offering a diverse programme that blends tradition, excitement, and competitive spirit, with broad participation from across Bahrain and the GCC.