Dr. Mariam Binladen Completes Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge in Bahrain
Dr. Mariam Binladen, a Saudi swimmer, completed the Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge, swimming 30 kilometers in 11 hours, 25 minutes, and 47 seconds. Known for her previous achievements in open-water swimming, she has also contributed to humanitarian efforts, establishing a free dental clinic in a Syrian refugee camp. Dr. Binladen advocates for women’s empowerment and emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s dreams through hard work and dedication.
In a remarkable display of determination and skill, Dr. Mariam Binladen, a prominent athlete and dentist from Saudi Arabia, has successfully completed the Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge, covering an impressive 30 kilometers from Alkhobar, Saudi Arabia, to Salman City, Bahrain. Completing this arduous journey in 11 hours, 25 minutes, and 47 seconds, Dr. Binladen has cemented her status as an influential figure in the realm of open-water swimming.
Dr. Binladen’s achievements are numerous; she has the distinction of being the first Arab woman to swim across the Red Sea to Egypt and the first Gulf woman to navigate the English Channel. Speaking on her recent swim, she explained the extensive preparations she undertook to contend with the unpredictable weather conditions typical of the Gulf of Bahrain.
“This swim was on my radar for seven years. Unfortunately, it was difficult to find an optimum window to do the challenge, primarily because weather conditions in the Gulf of Bahrain are incredibly difficult to predict,” Dr. Binladen stated. She elaborated on the intricacies involved in planning her swim, considering various factors from tides to temperature.
Notably, this swim took place under challenging conditions such as swimming in darkness and fluctuating water temperatures, prompting her to adapt her feeding strategy to avoid hypothermia. She disclosed, “Instead of feeding every 30 minutes, I fed every 15 minutes to avoid hypothermia and to maintain my body heat until sunrise.”
Dr. Binladen has faced unique challenges throughout her swimming career, including navigating dangerous marine life and the freezing temperatures of the English Channel. “Each challenge poses its own distinct difficulties and unique set of conditions,” she remarked.
In addition to her dedication to athletics, Dr. Binladen is also known for her humanitarian efforts, having established the first free dental treatment facility in a Syrian refugee camp. Her passion for helping others extends beyond athletics, and she has inspired many through her work and achievements.
Reflecting on women’s empowerment in Saudi Arabia, she expressed her gratitude towards living in a time when women can pursue their ambitions. “My advice to Saudi women is to never give up on your dream; with hard work and dedication, you can fulfill your goals,” she encouraged. Dr. Binladen has future plans, hinting at new challenges on the horizon and asserting, “My ambition is to lead a fulfilling life in which I am constantly learning, developing, and making a positive impact on those around me.
Dr. Mariam Binladen’s accomplishments serve as an inspiration to many, showcasing not only her athletic excellence but also her commitment to humanitarian causes. Her story underscores the evolving role of women in Saudi society, particularly as they continue to break barriers and pursue their dreams.
Dr. Mariam Binladen is an accomplished open-water swimmer from Saudi Arabia, recognized for her historic feats in swimming across significant bodies of water. With numerous achievements to her name, including being the first Arab woman to cross the Red Sea to Egypt, Dr. Binladen has established herself as a role model for many women in the Arab world. Her recent participation in the Khalid bin Hamad Swimming Challenge highlights not only her physical endurance but also her dedication to promoting women’s empowerment and humanitarian efforts.
Dr. Mariam Binladen’s journey emphasizes the intersection of athleticism, determination, and humanitarianism. Her swimming achievements not only set records but also inspire women in Saudi Arabia to pursue their goals fearlessly. By sharing her experiences and insights, Dr. Binladen illuminates the transformative power of perseverance and emphasizes the importance of supporting one another’s dreams, reinforcing the message that hard work leads to success. Her story is a testament to the potential of women in the Kingdom as they continue to break barriers.
Original Source: www.arabnews.pk
