The inaugural ANOC World Beach Games in Doha, which wrapped up on 16 October, was highly successful for European athletes, with Spain topping the medals table and Italy occupying third place.

The five days of competition saw the Spaniards, who travelled to Qatar with 62 athletes, the biggest delegation from Europe, compiling seven gold, one sliver and two bronze medals. Italian athletes won four gold, one silver and one bronze.

The Games, which opened with a spectacular ceremony last week, were expertly staged despite the organisers stepping in to take over the project only a few months ago. They worked extremely hard to provide the best conditions for the delegations, and it has clearly been a worthwhile trip for our European National Olympic Committees (ENOCs).

Of the 97 NOCs competing in Doha, 40 won medals, with 21 ENOCs enjoying at least one podium finish. This is another reflection of the fantastic performances by European athletes throughout the year.

In total, 14 sports disciplines featured at the Beach Games: 3×3 Basketball, Kitefoil Racing, Open Water Swimming (5Km), Aquathlon, Karate Individual Kata, Beach Wrestling, Beach Tennis, Beach Soccer, Beach Handball, Beach Volleyball, Bouldering, Skateboarding, Waterski Jump and Wakeboard).

While the competition concluded yesterday, there is still plenty to look forward to in the Qatari capital, with the ANOC General Assembly and ANOC Awards 2019 taking place from 17-18 October.

For more information, visit the ANOC website https://www.anocolympic.org