How did Ziad El Sissy put sabre fencing in Egypt on the Olympics map?

In this highlights episode of the Abtal podcast, world No 1 in sabre fencing Egypt's Ziad El Sissy talked to host Reem Abulleil about how his Olympic journey was far from easy, sharing early experiences in Egypt, where fencing was not a popular sport, and recounting how the team was often underestimated at international competitions.

Family plays a crucial role in El Sissy’s story. He speaks passionately about his father, who has passed away, and how his dream of winning an Olympic medal became El Sissy’s own.

El Sissy also talks about his wife, squash superstar Nouran Gohar, and how her support and encouragement has helped him refocus on his goals in fencing.

You can listen to the full episodes on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and all major podcasting platforms, or watch the full interviews on The National's YouTube channel.

While you're here

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On Women's Day

Dr Nawal Al-Hosany: Why more women should be on the frontlines of climate action

Samar Elmnhrawy: How companies in the Middle East can catch up on gender equality

The National Editorial: Is there much to celebrate on International Women's Day 2021?

Justin Thomas: Challenge the notion that 'men are from Mars, women are from Venus'

You Were Never Really Here

Director: Lynne Ramsay

Starring: Joaquim Phoenix, Ekaterina Samsonov

Four stars

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UAE and UK to mark historic transition with 1971 photography exhibition

The flights: South African Airways flies from Dubai International Airport with a stop in Johannesburg, with prices starting from around Dh4,000 return. Emirates can get you there with a stop in Lusaka from around Dh4,600 return.
The details: Visas are available for 247 Zambian kwacha or US$20 (Dh73) per person on arrival at Livingstone Airport. Single entry into Victoria Falls for international visitors costs 371 kwacha or $30 (Dh110). Microlight flights are available through Batoka Sky, with 15-minute flights costing 2,265 kwacha (Dh680).
Accommodation: The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Hotel by Anantara is an ideal place to stay, within walking distance of the falls and right on the Zambezi River. Rooms here start from 6,635 kwacha (Dh2,398) per night, including breakfast, taxes and Wi-Fi. Water arrivals cost from 587 kwacha (Dh212) per person.

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