His Majesty King Hamad will patronise the first edition of the GCC Games, to be held between October 11 and 22 in Bahrain, said a senior official.

Supreme Council for Youth and Sports president and chief of the Bahrain Olympic Committee Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa yesterday received a letter confirming His Majesty's support for the event.

On this occasion, Shaikh Nasser expressed thanks and appreciation to His Majesty on the approval of supporting the activities of the Games.

He confirmed that Bahrain's hosting this gathering is a great opportunity and is added to the distinctive series of significant achievements in Bahrain prosperous reign of His Majesty through the auspices of His Majesty's continued efforts to this vital sector.

Shaikh Nasser said having this first-ever sporting event in Bahrain is of great interest while sports in the Gulf region is at a steady pace towards development and progress, thanks to the significant support from their governments.

The event is set to be the largest ever showcase of GCC sporting talent, bringing together more than 1,500 athletes representing all GCC member nations.

The competition will be played in 10 venues, including six new builds, across Bahrain and will feature 11 sporting disciplines, including football, basketball, volleyball, handball, athletics (track and field), endurance racing, swimming, cycling, and bowling.

The GCC Games will be rotated between the GCC member states every four years. Saudi Arabia will hold the second edition of the GCC Games in 2015. – TradeArabia News Service