The competition took place in the Arabian Gulf and brought together participants from various countries. This was reported by the Ukrainian community in the UAE. 
For the Ukrainian athletes, the swim became not only a physical challenge but also a way to demonstrate resilience and the will to win despite the trauma and losses they have endured.
Support on Shore and in Organization
At the finish line, the veterans were welcomed by representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora in the UAE and friends of Ukraine. With flags and words of support, they accompanied the team to the старт, during the swim, and after its completion.
The organizers of the competition also expressed solidarity with Ukrainians. The leadership of OCEANMAN, in particular Executive Director Fermin Egido and Dubai Stage Director Amandos Linardos, accommodated the participants from Ukraine — providing support in the Ukrainian language and even making adjustments to the event program.
Who Provided Support
The trip and preparation of the team were organized by the non-governmental organization Zalizna Volia, which focuses on the rehabilitation of veterans through sport. Support was also provided by the Embassy of Ukraine in the United Arab Emirates and the Sushko Foundation.
According to representatives of the Ukrainian community in the Emirates, the veterans’ participation in such a large-scale international event became a vivid example of how Ukraine presents itself to the world not only through the pain of war, but also through strength of spirit and the ability to prevail.
The event in Dubai united the Ukrainian community abroad and demonstrated that support for veterans is not a one-time action, but sustained work carried out by volunteers, diplomats, and ordinary people in different parts of the world.
