Zunyi (China), June 18 (QNA) - Qatar's artistic gymnastics team achieved a new milestone at the 2026 Asian Artistic Gymnastics Championships, currently taking place in Zunyi, China and concluding on 21 June with participation from elite world, Olympic, and top Asian gymnasts.

Qatari athletes Mehrdad Ghadimi and Rakan Al Hareth secured qualification to the finals, marking a significant achievement for Qatar's gymnastics program.

Ghadimi advanced to the still rings final after delivering a strong technical performance in the qualification round, placing him among the top contenders on one of the competition's most demanding apparatus.

Meanwhile, Al Hareth continued his strong form, qualifying for the pommel horse final after an impressive routine that highlighted the growing competitiveness of Qatari gymnastics on the continental stage.

The Qatari delegation is led by President of the Qatar Gymnastics Federation and First Vice President of the International Gymnastics Federation Ali Al Hitmi, and includes the two athletes competing in the championship.

Al Hitmi expressed his satisfaction with the achievement, describing the qualification of two Qatari athletes to the Asian finals as a significant success and a source of pride for Qatari sport, especially given the presence of world and Olympic medalists.

He said the achievement reflects the strong work of the federation and technical staff, as well as the continuous development of Qatari athletes and their ability to compete at the highest levels.

He added that the federation looks forward to continued success in the finals and hopes the team can achieve podium finishes and raise Qatar's flag high.

Al Hitmi also noted that this progress is the result of continued support from the Qatar Olympic Committee, which has contributed to numerous sporting achievements across different disciplines. (QNA)