Tuesday, Mar 21, 2017

Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Sports Council will be hosting the inaugural 60ft Dhow Dalma Race on April 22 in an effort to keep the culture and tradition of sailing intact in the UAE.

Around 100 boats and 3000 sailors will be taking part in the 80 sea mile (125km) race which will start from the Dalma Island and touch islands like Ghasha, Um Al Kurkum, Al Fatayer, Al Bazam, Marwih, Jananah and finish at Al Marfa Town.

The racers will pass through two gates, the first after 40km from the start line, the second after 25km from the first gate before crossing the finish line after another 60km. Each boat will comprise around 20 sailors.

A whooping prize money of Dh25 million is up for grabs. The winner will walk away with a purse of Dh1.5 million, while the runner-up will be richer by Dh1.1 million. All those who finish the race will also be rewarded handsomely.

“The competition is open to all, but the boats must be of the same specifications. It’s an initiative of the Abu Dhabi government to restore traditions among the Emirati youth. We expect majority of the entries from across the country and a few from around the region,” said Ahmad Al Rumaithi, chairman of the ADSYC (Abu Dhabi Sailing & Yacht Club) at the launch of the event at the St. Regis Hotel yesterday.

Aref Al Awani, general secretary of ADSC, speaking on the occasion said: “This event is a unique one. Firstly, it is the first endurance race and secondly it’s rich in culture and tradition of the country.

“Like the Volvo Ocean race and the America’s Cup, this race will soon establish its own identity. It’s a tough endurance race on traditional sailing boats, which needs different skills,” he said.

By N.D. Prashant Staff Reporter

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