Friday, Apr 11, 2008
Gulf News
Dubai: The Jumeirah Traditional dhow sailing race in the 43 feet category takes place today at Mina Seyahi Dubai organised by the Dubai International Marine Club.
The third and final heat will witness approximately 80 traditional dhows competing for first place.
It is interesting to note that though the category is known as 43 feet the dhows could be between 43 or 44 feet in length with a width of 10.5 feet and a depth of 4.5 feet. Though the boat is of 100% wood the masts and beams could be made from composites or aluminium. As it is a traditional race the crew have to be nationals and the number of crew members is open.
Saeed Hareb, Managing Director of DIMC and organiser of the race said: "It is always a pleasure to see the youth participating in traditional races as it keeps alive the heritage of our fathers and grand fathers.
"With the close of this category of races, we will see these same youth participating in the annual mega race held from Sir Bu Naair where up to 100 dhows compete against each other for the prestige and of course the biggest prize money ever in the history of dhow sailing".
The last two heats witnessed fierce competition between Rashid Mohammad Rashid Al Rumaithi in Burraq and Dahees skippered by Khadim Al Muhairi. Sayeb fought it out against Al Iz while Mohammad Rashid Bin Shaheen stayed his ground to be placed in the number one spot in the overall championship.
Fight for top spot
Khadim Muhairi in Dahees is second overall followed by Al Wasmi who has maintained his position at third place. The fight for the top spot is just a point away between the first three and the third and final heat will determine the winner.
The dhow sailing races are without a doubt the most spectacular events on the watersports calendar.
The dhows are fashioned in exactly the same way as those used by the pearl sailors of yesteryear with the races. The events have become a family affair over the years.
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