More than 7,200 children in Gaza on July 22, 2010 simultaneously bounced basketballs, putting them on track to set their second world record in as many years, as part of an annual summer sporting event organized by the United Nations agency assisting Palestinian refugees. The record of 7,203 balls dribbled more than doubles the previous record set in 2007 in the United States, where just over 3,000 balls were bounced.

John Ging, Director of the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), took a cautious approach, noting that a final verdict from the Guinness Book of World Records is expected in the coming days. “But certainly we know the figures and the chances look good,” he said. Mr. Ging expressed his gratitude to the children of Gaza, “without whom this could never have happened.”

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon had earlier expressed his support in a video message.

I want to congratulate the children of Gaza for taking part in this great event. You are showing the world that if you are given the opportunity… you can be number one!

The children used the old airport to dribble the basketballs. They hope that one day the airport will reopen for flights and Gaaza siege will be lifted.