Lattakia, Dec. 7 (SANA) Syrian triathlon champion Abdullah al-Malek arrived in Lattakia on Saturday after cycling from Beirut, completing a journey timed to coincide with events marking the first anniversary of liberation.
Al-Malek told SANA that he made the trip in fulfillment of a personal pledge he set for himself on December 8, 2024, the day he said the joy of liberation was complete, to ride the route from Beirut to Lattakia. He said reaching the city on the anniversary carried symbolic meaning for him.
Upon arrival, al-Malek was received by Tourism Director Fadi Nizam and later joined a festival held at the National Museum.
Al-Malek, who has lived in Lebanon since 2017 and is an international swimming coach as well as a Lebanese, Arab and Asian triathlon titleholder, said his goal was to “send a message that communities can make a meaningful impact when people come together through activities and events, particularly sports, which help promote peace.”
He added that sports had introduced him to diverse segments of society during his years in Lebanon.
Syrians are set to mark the first anniversary of liberation on Monday, an occasion that underscores national unity and the country’s commitment to a more stable and secure future.
