Doha, January 31 (QNA) - Al Galayel Traditional Hunting Championship 2026's third group of competitions proceeded in full swing Saturday at Al Eraiq Reserve, as part of the tournament held under the support of the Social and Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM).

The event unfolded in a highly competitive atmosphere, reflecting the prestige of Al Galayel as one of the region's foremost heritage tournaments.

The third group featured the teams of Haloul, Al Adeed, Al Sulaymi, and Al Zaeem, competing for top positions in this epic traditional hunting championship.

Al Sulaymi maintained the top spot in Group Three with a total of 330 points after hunting 5 bustards. Haloul came second with 270 points (4 bustards), Al Za'eem dropped to third with 240 points (3 bustards), and Al Adeed remained fourth with 90 points, adding 2 bustards today.

Chairman of the Organizing Committee of Al Galayel Tournament for Traditional Hunting Khalid bin Mohammed Al Maadeed stated that the group standings have been set by the end of the second day, adding that the contest remains tight among three teams.

Al Sulaymi leads for the second consecutive day with 330 points and 11 houbara birds caught, but faces pursuit not only from Haloul, just 60 points behind, but also from Al Za'eem, performing impressively as a relatively new team, he explained.

Al Maadeed further noted that Al Adeed, despite its experience, is now out of contention after two days, likely due to lack of preparation and training.

Head of the Finance, Administration, Public Relations and Media Committee in the Al Galayel Championship Rashid Hussein Al Ameri said he is glad for the accomplishments this tournament has been making year after year, positioning itself as a global crossroads for Qatari and Gulf veteran hunters to gather in an event that combines fierce competitions with a spirit of fraternity prior to the contests.

The participating teams this season unflinchingly demonstrate their strength, as most teams that had previously quit are once again in the top-performing ranks, he noted, stressing that this is the spirit of Al Galayel, which holds the suspense and enjoyment that all spectators anticipate everywhere, along with its significance as a heritage championship highly cherished by Qatar as part of its efforts to preserve this traditional, time-honored legacy.

Haloul team, led by Abdullah Ali Al Ghanem Al Ma'adeed, maintained strong form to secure second place, drawing on six consecutive years of experience and consistent performance in the Al Galayel Traditional Hunting Championship.

Al Sulaymi, represented by Nasser Falah Al Azmi from Saudi Arabia, emphasized team stability and cohesion, contributing to their continued success in this widely popular Gulf heritage tournament.

Al Za'eem, with member Abdullah Ali Al Najm, marked its debut in the championship, demonstrating high readiness and competitive spirit while holding third place, keeping hopes alive for advancing to the final rounds.

Al Adeed, led by Hadi Mohammed Al Hajri, currently sits fourth, yet benefits from a legacy of past achievements and continues to integrate new members to ensure sustained presence and performance in the tournament.

The championship remains a premier platform for preserving Qatar's traditional hunting heritage, promoting the culture of "Al Maqnas", and offering participants a unique experience in the natural reserve environment. (QNA)