The Al-Fidar Sports Club kicked off its 24th annual festival at its sports grounds.
The event was attended by a large number of officials, athletes, and local community members, and featured a performance by the Internal Security Forces band, led by Major Gabriel Lutfi.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Maronite Archbishop of Jbeil, Michel Aoun.
Also in attendance were Members of Parliament Simon Abi Ramia and Salim Al-Sayegh, along with representatives from the Lebanese Army and municipal, social, and sports figures.
The ceremony began with a speech by the club’s secretary, Dr. Rana Mahfouz.
In her remarks, she emphasized that sports refine both body and spirit, while fostering determination and perseverance among young people.
Afterward, those present observed a minute of silence in honor of former board member Antoine Mahfouz.
The opening ceremony included a parade and the entrance of the sports teams.
The Internal Security Forces band then played the Lebanese national anthem.
In addition, the club’s youth and female members performed folk and dance routines, while plaques of appreciation were presented to a number of dignitaries and athletes.
For his part, Club President Naji Basil emphasized the importance of clean and transparent sports.
He noted that sports protect young people from social ills.
He also called for the elimination of political favoritism from sports and for official and financial support to be directed toward active clubs.
The ceremony concluded with the lighting of the festival torch and a fireworks display, signaling the start of the annual competitions and activities.
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