Muscat – Oman’s rising middle-distance runner, Al Yazan bin Rashid al Shamsi, clinched the bronze medal in the 800m event at the third Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, clocking 1:58.79 to secure a spot on the podium.

More than 5,000 young athletes from 45 Asian Olympic Committees are competing in the continental meet, which runs from October 22 to 31 across multiple venues in Bahrain. The games feature 24 sports and 31 categories with a total of 253 competitions.

Shamsi’s success boosts Oman’s presence on the regional athletics stage and adds momentum to the national delegation’s campaign.

National athletics coach Ahmed bin Khamis al Siyabi hailed the young runner’s performance, describing it as a result of strong preparation and determination. He said the event featured tough competition, and that Shamsi’s commitment throughout the training period was key to the achievement.

The coach noted that tactical hesitation in the second lap prevented a higher finish but emphasised that the experience will serve as a valuable learning curve for the athlete in his first major continental competition. He added that the medal would inspire other members of the Omani team to push for stronger results in the upcoming days.

Siyabi expressed confidence in Shamsi’s potential and called for continued support from all stakeholders to further raise technical standards in long and middle-distance disciplines and help nurture emerging national talent.

Shamsi said the bronze medal represented an important milestone in his career. While he had hoped to finish higher, he expressed pride in contributing to Oman’s presence at the games. He dedicated the accomplishment to the sultanate, the Oman Olympic Committee, his coaches, and his family, affirming that the result has strengthened his resolve to work harder toward future goals.