No women in Saudi Arabia’s Olympic squad

By Farah al-Sweel

RIYADH

When Saudi Arabia’s Olympic team appears in Beijing next month, it will be conspicuous for the absence of women. Rashed al-Heraiwel, head of the Saudi delegation, confirmed no women would be in the lineup, apparently due to opposition by powerful clerics to women’s participation in sport.

Heraiwel said now was not the time for the Saudi authorities to consider allowing women into sport.

"We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it," he said, suggesting that issue had not been discussed due to the de-facto ban.

The Saudi Arabian Olympic Committee website says the Olympic team will participate in five sports — athletics, shooting, swimming, weightlifting and equestrian events — but does not say how many athletes will attend the August 8-24 Games.

Saudi Arabia is one of the only countries to keep women out of international sports events, despite efforts in recent years to change the situation.

Last April, the Saudi Equestrian Sports Federation appointed a woman, Arwa Mutabagani, to its board. This July Sarah Mouwad was appointed to a senior post in the college football league in Riyadh.

Women cannot join gyms unless they cater specifically for them. They are not allowed entry to sports stadiums to cheer on teams.

"Calling for them to participate too hastily would not be prudent at this time." said Fayyad al-Shammari, a sports columnist.

Neighbouring Gulf Arab states have followed the path taken by many Muslim sportswomen who follow an Islamic dress code. Bahrain athlete Ruqaya Al-Ghasara races in a full body-suit and headscarf. — Reuters