JEDDAH, 18 April 2005 — Two Sudanese athletes have converted to Islam. Runners Toud Juda and William Philip announced their conversion to Islam in Makkah and informed the Sudan delegation about it. They visited the Holy Mosque in Makkah and performed Umrah. Toud Juda is a gold medalist in 110 meters hurdles.
Saudi Arabia Kiss Water Polo Gold Goodbye
JEDDAH, 18 April 2005 — Saudi Arabia’s hopes of winning the water polo gold medal evaporated after the host country team tied 4-4 against Iran. The defeat relegated the Saudi team to a battle for the bronze medal. The gold medal game will be between Egypt and the Uzbek.
Algeria Cagers Succumb to Pressure
MADINAH, 18 April 2005 — The Algerian basketball coach attributed his team’s loss against Morocco to grinding pressure. According to the coach, they managed to win all their matches due to team cohesion and ability to keep cool under pressure. But against Morocco, players could not keep their tempers down and hold their nerves.
Saudi Athletics Manager Cites Key to Success
MAKKAH, 18 April 2005 — The Saudi athletics manager, Khaled Al-Khaldi, has attributed their success at the games to the excellent preparation. Al-Khaldi said the track and field team had been preparing six months before the games started. He said: “We expected to achieve good results because our players were prepared very well and have the confidence.”
He added winning an overall of 15 medals including 9 golds is a good indication of a bright future of Saudi athletics.
Taif Hotel Organizes Field Trips
TAIF, 18 April 2005 — The Bahader Plaza Hotel and Mall has organized field trips for various delegations in the Solidarity Games. Khalil Bahader, owner of the hotel, said the field trips took the more than 200 athletes and officials of different countries to natural conservation areas in Taif, Al-Hada and Al-Shafa.
