Dubai, August 28 — As the UAE marked Emirati Women’s Day 2024, 17-year-old Maryam Al Farsi emerged as a beacon of determination and hope. Representing the nation in the 100-metre sprint at the Paris Olympics, Maryam has captured hearts not only for her athletic achievements but also for her vision to inspire young Emirati women to pursue their dreams with confidence.
Key Highlights
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17-year-old Emirati sprinter represented the UAE at the Paris Olympics.
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Recently broke the 13-second milestone in the 100 metres.
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Student at Gems Wellington Academy, excelling in academics and athletics.
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Strongly supported by her mother, family, and community.
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Aims to inspire more Emirati women to pursue sports.
A Journey Sparked by Passion
Maryam’s athletic career began unexpectedly. Initially active in various sports like rugby and netball, she soon discovered her natural speed and talent for sprinting. With the support of her coaches at AIS and her determination to push boundaries, she quickly transformed a hobby into a pathway to international competition.
The Power of Family Support
Behind Maryam’s success lies the unwavering encouragement of her mother. Sacrificing personal comforts to invest in her daughter’s training, she has been Maryam’s strongest pillar of strength.
“I always knew I could achieve anything with my mother beside me,” Maryam reflects, underscoring the importance of family in nurturing talent and ambition.
Balancing Education and Athletics
A student at Gems Wellington Academy, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Maryam excels both on and off the track. With A-levels in mathematics, economics, and business, she balances a rigorous academic schedule alongside demanding training sessions.
Her journey highlights the value of discipline, time management, and perseverance for young athletes in the UAE.
Breaking Records and Setting Goals
In a defining moment, Maryam recently broke the 13-second barrier in the 100 metres, a milestone she had long pursued. Her determination now drives her toward achieving sub-12-second timings and new triumphs in upcoming competitions such as the Saudi Championships in September 2025. Each milestone reinforces her commitment to excellence and national pride.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Maryam’s aspirations go beyond medals. She dreams of creating more opportunities for Emirati girls in athletics, ensuring they receive the support and guidance she once wished for.
Her vision aligns with the UAE’s mission to empower women across all fields, making her not just a champion on the track but also a role model in leadership and community development.
FAQs
Q: When did Maryam Al Farsi start sprinting?
Ans: She began sprinting in 2019 and quickly rose to national and international competitions.
Q: Which school does Maryam attend?
Ans: She studies at Gems Wellington Academy, Dubai Silicon Oasis.
Q: What was her major achievement this year?
Ans: Maryam broke the 13-second barrier in the 100-metre sprint and competed in the Paris Olympics.
Q: How does she balance sports and studies?
Ans: She manages her time with discipline, often training early mornings or late evenings while prioritizing academics.
Q: What are her future goals?
Ans: Maryam aims to achieve faster timings, compete internationally, and create opportunities for young Emirati female athletes.
Maryam Al Farsi’s journey from school athletics to the Olympic stage reflects the resilience, vision, and promise of Emirati youth. As the nation celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, her story serves as an enduring reminder that with determination, support, and ambition, the UAE’s future champions are already on track to global success.
