Sheikha Fatima honoured by Olympic Committee

The wife of Sheikh Zayed, the founding President, was yesterday honoured by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for her contribution to sport.

Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, known locally as the Mother of the UAE, was awarded the IOC President's Trophy for outstanding merit in the development of sport. Dr Jacques Rogge, president of the IOC, said the trophy particularly honoured her dedication to the advancement of women in sport.

Sheikha Fatima is the chairwoman of the board of directors of the Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak Ladies Sports Academy and last April inspired the launch of an annual international award for female athletes in her name.

Nominations for the Award for Women Athletes opened yesterday and will close in two weeks' time.

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