Teen track star Shams Bassam continues family legacy with gold at Iraq Athletics Championships

BAGHDAD – Shams Bassam, a 17-year-old track and field athlete from Anbar Sports Club, has secured gold at the 2024 Iraq Clubs Athletics Championships. Following in the footsteps of her aunt, former Iraq and Asia champion Shaoub Qahtan, Shams has built on her family’s rich athletic legacy. She is trained by her mother, Shifaa Qahtan, and aims for international success in the future.

Residing in Baghdad’s Dora neighborhood, Shams expressed pride in her family’s influence on her career. Her late uncle, Abbas Qahtan, was a pioneering figure in Iraqi athletics, and her aunt introduced her to the sport at age 10.

Shams began her training with Ramadi Club in 2017, progressing quickly to become one of Iraq’s top athletes in her category. At this year’s championships, she claimed first place in both the 400m and 200m events, competing against 12 other athletes.

However, Shams pointed out the challenges of training in Baghdad, citing the lack of adequate facilities. “The Ministry of Youth and Sports stadium is available, but it’s not accessible for daily training, especially for older athletes,” she said.

Despite not yet competing internationally, Shams dreams of achieving global recognition. She also expressed regret over having to leave school but is determined to return to her studies. “My family supports both my education and athletics, and I advise girls to focus on their education,” she said.

Shifaa Qahtan, Shams’ mother and coach, underscored the family’s role in her athletic development. “Shams inherited her talent from her aunt and uncle. When her aunt discovered her potential, we fully supported her journey in track and field,” she told 964media.

She called for more accessible training facilities, saying, “Track and field is the queen of sports, and all we ask for is a dedicated field and track.”