At the Closing Ceremony of the 2024 World Abilitysport Youth Games, Fajr Al-Smry of Saudi Arabia and home athlete, Sombun Phrmkhun were recognised for their medal-winning performances in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

The Athlete with International Potential award that has recognised athletes with outstanding performances since 2008, was awarded to Al-Smry who won gold in both the 45kg Rookie category and team event and Thailand’s Phrmkhun who claimed a haul of five golds in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m T34/53/54 combined class.

On receiving the award, Al-Smry said: “I am grateful to the Saudi Weightlifting Federation for giving me this wonderful opportunity to represent my beloved country in the World Abilitysport Youth Games, an experience that filled me with pride and happiness as I represented my nation.”

“During the competition, I felt a great sense of excitement mixed with fear of losing, but thanks to God and my trust in Him, I was able to win two gold medals and the Athlete with Potential Award. I dedicate this achievement and victory to my dear country, my family, and the Saudi Federation, which has supported and helped me a great deal in nurturing my talent.”

Fajr Al-Smry (left) with her teammate Talal Albalawi following their medal presentations.

History of the Award

The Athlete with Potential Award is presented to nominees who have shown an outstanding performance at an edition of the World Abilitysport Youth Games.

First presented in 2008, this award entitles winners to £500 off their entry fees to the next Games that their sport is on the competition programme.

Past recipients of the award include Switzerland’s 6-time Paralympic and 5-time World wheelchair racing champion Catherine Debrunner and South Africa’s double Paralympic and World long jump champion Nthando Mahlanu. Germany’s track and field athletes, double Paralympic and World champion Felix Streng and 5-time World champion Leon Shafer have also been recognised at previous Games.