Noor Elakhdar Team United Arab Emirates

About me

I am Noor Elakhdar 21 years from Egypt. I have Trisomy 21 and am on the autistic spectrum. Due to my condition, I face many physical, mental and social challenges, but sport is the key for getting me through it.
During Covid-19 lockdown, I weighed 81 kg, was diabetic and my health in general was bad. I started running indoors, eating healthier food, and learning how to cycle. Then, in 2021, I turned my vision to a mission, which is to inspire people to get into sport, whatever their ability. Participating in most of community sports events has given me happiness and confidence. In 2023, I went further and became a triathlete, completing 18 AG Super Sprints. I have earned a medal in Oceanman Dubai for being an inspiring person - the first Arab athlete with DS AND AUTISM to swim 1500m. Today, I weigh 52 kg, I feel better physically and mentally and I stopped all my medications. I have a healthy resting heart rate of 44 bpm. My future plan - which I wish to do - is to be a marathon finisher, professional fin-swimmer and practice rowing and surfing. I dream big! I will never stop moving my body to inspire others to do the same.