Baghdad Day celebration features revived Telematch games at Al-Zawraa Park

BAGHDAD — In celebration of Baghdad Day, the Baghdad Municipality organized the “Telematch” games at Al-Zawraa Park, drawing participation from 18 teams representing various municipalities across the city. This year, the municipality extended the festivities to span eight days, rather than the traditional one-day celebration.

Baghdad was founded on July 30, 762 CE, by the Abbasid caliph Al-Mansur, who envisioned it as the capital of the Islamic world. Strategically located along the Tigris River, the city was meticulously planned in a circular design, earning it the nickname “The Round City.” This layout featured concentric walls and four equidistant gates, symbolizing the city’s intended role as a center of learning, culture, and commerce.

The concept of “Telematch” dates back to the 1980s, when it was originally a televised game in Iraq that featured scouting competitions among German cities. According to the municipality, the Baghdad Telematch event includes 12 games, such as sliding, running, and giant soccer. Prizes are set at 2 million dinars (approximately $1,333 USD) for the first-place team, 1.5 million dinars (about $1,000 USD) for second place, and 1 million dinars (around $667 USD) for third.

“Baghdad Day is celebrated by the municipality and all Baghdadis,” said Mohammed Al-Rubaie, Director of Relations and Media at the Baghdad Municipality, in an interview with 964media. “This year, we have extended the celebration to eight days, from November 10 to 18, breaking from tradition.”

Al-Rubaie explained that each event in the celebration carries cultural, environmental, and educational messages aimed at engaging young people. “We revived the ‘Telematch’ games, reminiscent of the 1980s German competition between cities. We selected Al-Zawraa Park for its scouting-friendly environment, which includes a lake, trees, hills, and gentle slopes. We’ve named it ‘Baghdad Telematch’ and organized 12 games for 18 teams from Baghdad’s municipalities, including lake games, sliding, running, and giant soccer.”

The 18 teams are competing for the top three spots, with prizes awarded. Each team comprises 10 players nominated from each municipality, with the aim of fostering active, engaged volunteers closely connected to local decision-makers, Al-Rubaie noted.

Participants expressed enthusiasm for the event, with Mohammed Qasim, a competitor from the Shaula Municipality, sharing his experience. “This is our first time participating. We selected a group of young people from our area and have so far taken first place in the bicycle and climbing games. We’re aiming to win first place in the rope game as well. Thanks to the Baghdad Municipality for organizing this event with the participation of municipalities across Baghdad.”

Hiba Raad, another participant, praised the event’s organization and inclusivity. “The annual Baghdad Day celebration, sponsored by the Mayor of Baghdad, included the Telematch event at Al-Zawraa Gardens. It was the first time this event was held, featuring a variety of sports with active participation from both young men and women. It was a wonderful and engaging experience.”