Iraqi delegation excels in Arab “Memory and Speed Retention” championship in Cairo

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi delegation triumphed at the Arab Championship for Memory and Speed Retention, securing top positions among 150 competitors from 11 Arab nations in Cairo. The championship, which took place on Aug. 16-17, saw Iraq’s nine contestants achieve impressive results despite a short training period.

In the over-10-years-old category, Iraq claimed the top spots with Abbas Amer, Fatima Ameer, and Fatima Mohammed securing first place, followed by Aya Haider in second place, and Riya Haider, Youssef Ahmed, and Murtada Hazem in third place. In the under-10-years-old category, Abbas Karar Abbas achieved second place, while Fatima Khalid took third place.

Diaa Al-Gharawi, head of the Iraqi delegation, expressed pride in the team’s performance. “We achieved good results in the over-10 category, despite the short training period,” Al-Gharawi said. “Contestant Abbas Karar, who was trained for only one month, managed to surpass all competitors in his age group due to his intellectual brilliance and capabilities.”

Abbas Karar, one of the competitors, reflected on his experience, noting the challenge of competing with minimal preparation. “This was my first time in the Memory and Speed Retention program,” Karar said. “I was selected to represent Iraq despite the short training period. While others had a year of training, I only had a month. Securing second place in the Arab world is a significant achievement for me. I dedicate my victory to my country, Iraq, and my family for their continuous support.”