HARBIN, Feb. 11 (Xinhua) -- During the ongoing 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin on Tuesday, Sultan Al Busaidi, chair of the medical committee for the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), praised the Games' anti-doping education and medical services.

"We are proud to say that the OCA has followed the guidelines of anti-doping education with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) from the beginning, and we have found that education is the most important factor for athletes," Al Busaidi said, emphasizing the OCA's strong cooperation with the China Anti-Doping Agency (CHINADA).

"We need to disseminate information to athletes, making them aware of the adverse effects of doping, the substances or medications they take, and what is prohibited for their health," he added.

Al Busaidi stressed that the core objective of anti-doping education is to protect athletes and that key information must be reinforced.

"Sometimes we hear information and tend to forget it, but if we practice, it stays with us," he said. "Education is a must and a priority for the OCA. We ask our international athletes, especially elites, to stay informed and undergo testing."

According to Al Busaidi, anti-doping education prepares athletes for competition at local, continental, and international levels. Many veteran athletes actively participate in educational programs, serving as role models for younger generations.

Reflecting on his experiences at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and the current Harbin Winter Asiad, Al Busaidi commended CHINADA.

"Credit to CHINADA for its creativity and professionalism. Every time, there's something new in anti-doping education, adding another dimension to it," he said.

Harbin won the bid for the 9th Asian Winter Games in July 2023, and Al Busaidi spoke highly of the event's organization.

"Harbin took over in a very short time, and the organizers have done extensive work. We are impressed by the healthcare system, with its advanced equipment, skilled personnel, and professional training," he said.

"When we arrived, we found everything in place and up to standard-more than we expected. It was the right decision to keep medical professionals on the committee," Al Busaidi added. "I think the organizers have done a fantastic job." Enditem

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