MUSCAT : Fatik said his goal is not merely to secure advanced positions in regional championships, but to reach a global standard that reflects both his aspirations and capabilities. Breaking the 2.27m mark, he noted, represents his most significant technical objective in the coming phase, a milestone that would open doors to continental and international competition.

Fatik’s journey in athletics began at youth training centres in Salalah. Initially, he tried his hand at the long jump. However, noticing a shortage of high jump specialists, he proposed to his coach that he shift disciplines, a decision that would ultimately shape his career. He credits his first coach, the late Captain Shuaib, for discovering and nurturing his talent, instilling confidence in him from an early stage and reinforcing his commitment to the sport.

Balancing academics and athletics proved to be one of the most challenging phases of his life. Fatik emphasised that excelling in both required strict discipline and personal sacrifice. Despite the pressures, he successfully completed his studies while maintaining rigorous training and competition schedules. Upon graduation, he dedicated himself fully to high jump, a period he describes as foundational in building his athletic character.

Among his most notable achievements are gold medals at the Gulf, West Asian, Arab, and Islamic Games levels. The medal dearest to him, however, remains the gold he secured at the Islamic Games. At the time, he was battling injury and academic pressures but persisted through the pain to emerge victorious. He described the moment as pivotal, proving that determination can overcome even the toughest challenges.

His performance milestones underline his steady progression: 2.01m in the junior category, 2.07m in the youth category, and an overall personal best of 2.20m, records that remain unbroken in their respective categories. Fatik attributes this early development to his talent, structured coaching, and the technical and administrative support provided by the Oman Athletics Federation and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth.

His training regimen ranges between eight and 12 sessions per week, depending on the season’s preparation phase. Early-season focus centres on strength building and physical conditioning to prevent injuries and sharpen technique. He stressed that proper nutrition plays a vital role in sustaining high-intensity training, supporting muscle function and maintaining the nervous system under pressure.

Looking ahead, Fatik underscored that reaching continental and international podiums requires an integrated support system encompassing financial, technical, and medical backing. He called for stronger collaboration among relevant authorities to create a professional environment that enables athletes to reach their full potential.

Qualifying for the Los Angeles Olympics stands as one of his major goals, not merely to participate, but to compete at the highest level.

For all the latest news from Oman and GCC, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn, like us on Facebook and subscribe to our YouTube page, which is updated daily.