#44 May 2014

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Abu Dhabi All-Stars Grand Slam
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Ahead of the pack

Kai Lenny exclusive interview
Kitesurf Qatar
Yemen at a glance
Run on positive energy
Energizer Night Rebel 2014
Tried & tested
Newton Motion III

WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
Issue 41, May 2014
Ultralite 350
Light weight sleeping bag
Insulation: Insulite Superfine

Comfort / Limit / Extreme: 9 / 5 / -9C
Suggested usage: 2 season
Max user height: 190cm
Weight: 850g
Packed: 18 x 16cm
Distributed by:
DESIGNED
TO PERFORM.
MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
On the cover: Izzi Gomez

Photo by: Abdel Elecho
Managing Editor Daniel Birkhofer
Editor Glaiza Seguia
Administration Jane Mesina
Sales & Marketing (advertisement enquiries)
Linda Turcerova
Tel: 04-447 2030
Mobile: 055 9398915
linda@outdooruae.com
Published by
Outdoor UAE FZE
In cooperation with D32 Events
P.O. Box 215062
Dubai, U.A.E.
Tel. 04-447 2030
contact@outdooruae.com
www.outdooruae.com
Distributor
Tawzea, Abu Dhabi Media
Company
P.O. Box 40401,
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
Printed at
Atlas Printing Press LLC
P.O. Box: 14833, Dubai, UAE
2014 Outdoor UAE FZE

Issue 41 May 2014
MAY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
Time to take a breath!

What a busy season! I had so many plans on how I would like to spend my weekends,
but these months have seen more outdoor events than ever before. There was not a
single weekend without multiple events going on. When we started OutdoorUAE, we
attended most of the events since there were only a few throughout the season. Now,
everything developed so positively that the OutdoorUAE team can hardly find time to
take a breather. We are challenged to cover or support all of the events, and even sometimes we need to choose. The team and I love the community and attending events,
despite private plans getting pushed back.
As much as I enjoyed the busy buzz, I am happy to have some hot weekends left, with
no event commitments so I can enjoy the outdoors myself. We have many regular contributors and since our first meeting Ive planned to join them for their expert activities.
But as mentioned, time is so limited on weekends that I managed to join only a very few
in the last four years. So it was only last month, after more than three and a half years,
that I joined our very own Fishing Kit.
It was a great experience for me that our fishing expert willingly shared one of his secret
spots and fishing technique with me. To not get carried away with how great it was, I will
try to put it in a few words. Have you seen the movie Life of Pi? Just imagine yourself
in the middle of the night without moonlight, 3km offshore on a reef in flat water, paddling and fishing in the dark. There are a lot of fish and activity, not only nibbling on my
legs, but also jumping and activating the bio fluorescent organisms in the water, so that
every move in the water there is bright yellow light against the black sky and deep blue
water. Of course it is not as spectacular as on screen, but standing in the middle of the
ocean on a submerged reef, seeing only dark outlines of the coast with millions of stars
in the sky and the fireworks in the water, it was one of the most special and amazing
experiences I had in the last few years. Now I understand Kit more when he talks about
fishing the flats. Thank you for sharing your secret spot with me, dont worry GPS
coordinates will not be published or shared. :)
Daniel
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BETWEEN THE LINES

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The information contained is for general use only.

While we have made every attempt to ensure that
the information contained in this magazine has been
obtained from reliable sources, however the publisher
is not responsible for any errors. All information in this
magazine is provided as is, with no guarantee of
completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results
obtained from the use of this information. In no event
will the publisher, its related affiliates or anyone else
be responsible for any decision made or action taken
in reliance on the information in this magazine.
Daniel Birkhofer
Founder and Editor in Chief
daniel@outdooruae.com
WHEN YOURE
DONE READING,
PLEASE RECYCLE!
Glaiza Seguia
Editor
glaiza@outdooruae.com
Jane Mesina
Administration
jane@outdooruae.com
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EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS
All contents are under copyrights and may not be

reproduced in any kind without written permission.
2014 Outdoor UAE FZE
Reg. at Creative City Fujairah
P.O. Box 4422, Fujairah, U.A.E.
Linda Turcerova
Sales and Marketing
linda@outdooruae.com
Kit Belen
Our fishing pro
John Basson
Moto/ATV and all round
adventure seeker
Mike Nott
The 4x4 expert
Tori Leckie
Writer, runner, blogger and
adventurer.
Ian Ganderton
Kayaker, climber, mountainbiker and
snowboarder. Enthusiastic jack of all
trades, master of none.
WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? CONTACT US! contact@outdooruae.com
OUTDOORUAE
CONTENTS
21 DEEP-WATER SOLOING
16 MAKING WAVES: KAI LENNY
EVERY ISSUE
05 BEST SHOTS
06 EVENTS CALENDAR
40 LIFESTYLE
43 PRODUCTS
54 PEOPLE
63 DIRECTORY
34 THE HONEY BADGER DIARIES
36 YEMEN
EVENT REVIEWS & REPORTS

12 BUNGEE JUMP WORLD RECORD
14 SUP ALL-STARS
18 ENERGIZER NIGHT RUN
24 KITESURFING IN QATAR
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
30 SAUDI ARABIAN ODYSSEY Part 3
33 TRAVEL CAMBODIA
38 CLIMBING THE ARCTIC CIRCLE Part 2
LIFESTYLE
42 HABITUALLY HEALTHY
OUR EXPERTS
50 INGELI SKYMARATHON TORI
52 TOUR MOROCCO - JOHN
TIPS + TRICKS
60 BREATHING EASY
61 SILVER GRUNTER KIT BELEN
4
OUTDOORUAE
56 GET OUTDOORS IN THE UAE
BEST SHOTS
WINNER!
Here are the best shots sent in by you for the

monthly Want Fame? photography competition!
Thank you for all your entries, they were all great and
it was hard selecting the best photos this month. Congratulations to the top 3 winners, who will each receive
Buff headwear and five free copies of the magazine:
Tereza Spackova, Sylvan Reynolds and Trevor Allen.
Well done!
To submit your entries, simply email us

at competitions@outdooruae.com
with the subject Best Shots.
WINNER!
Tereza Spackova
Hang gliding in Rio de Janeiro.
WINNER!
Sylvan Reynolds
Jack The Ripper (6B+) at Road Side, Ras Al Khaimah.
Trevor Allen
A stingray breaching while out fishing

(no, the stingray wasnt hooked).
OUTDOORUAE
EVENTS CALENDAR
Stay up-to-date with the latest events
GIANT Tour Dubike Cycling Festival 2014

May 2, 6:00am, Al Qudra Cycle Path
Following the unfortunate postponement of the mid-February schedule, the GIANT Tour Dubike
is back with a new original course, start time and more fun! Distances range from160km / 100km
/ 100km (TT) / 50km / 20km and kids (2km/5km) options. Starting from the Dubai Camel Race
Club (beside The Sevens Stadium), the course takes in 25km of quiet country roads to the Al
Qudra Cycle Path, followed by one or two loops in the desert (100km or 160km) and the 25km
return journey back to the Camel Track. The shorter distances are fully contained within the
confines of the Camel Track. Finish the season with a fun event for the whole family and a BBQ
afterwards. For more information, visit www.premieronline.com.
Ashurst Sprint Aquathon 2014

May 3, 6:45am, Jebel Ali Golf Hotel
The Ashurst Sprint Aquathon features race categories for all age groupers and teams. New for the
final race of the series is a category especially for people working in the legal industry as well as
age groups for young athletes aimed at encouraging the next generation of endurance athletes.
The younger athletes race a shortened course. Sprint Distance Aquathon for age groupers 750m
swim/5km run with Open (ages 19-39); Veteran (ages 40-49) and SuperVet (ages 50+) categories.
The Kids SuperSprint Distance Aquathon for younger athletes race with two age groups: Junior
(ages 12-15) who race 750m swim/2.5km run and Mini (Under 11s) to race 375m swim/2.5km run.
The Sprint Distance Team Aquathon with sprint distance 750m swim/5km run.
For more information, visit www.race-me-events.com.
Wings for Life World Run

May 4, 6:00pm, Safa Park, Dubai
The Wings for Life World Run is a global adventure, encompassing 34 locations, in which everyone runs at the very same time all over the world! 100% of the proceeds from the event will go
to the Wings for Life foundation, which funds research into curing spinal cord injury. The run will
unite athletes around the world, in one race, running for those who cant. For more information,
visit www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.
Arabian Travel Market 2014
May 5 to 8, Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre,

Dubai World Trade Centre
ATM is the leading international travel and tourism event in the Middle East for inbound and
outbound tourism professionals from across the globe. This four-day event attracts high level
decision-makers and buyers representing every aspect of the leisure travel industry. Held under
the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and
Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, the show has grown to become the largest showcase
of its kind in the region and one of the biggest in the world.
To register and for more information, visit www.arabiantravelmarket.com.
Bungee Jumping Competition

May 9, Gravity Zone grounds
Join the UAEs first bungee jumping competition if you dare. Open to women, men and teams,
the best jumps will be judged. For more details and registrations,
contact booking@gravityzone.com or 056 2745520.
OUTDOORUAE
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EVENTS CALENDAR
GoYAS by Activelife
Every Wednesday, 6:00pm, Yas Marina Circuit

GoYAS by Activelife is an initiative for women to engage in fun, healthy fitness activities in
complete privacy every Wednesday. Women 12 years and older are welcomed to walk, run or
cycle on the Yas Marina Circuit F1 track or take part in group fitness activities including boot
camp, pilates, box fit and yoga. All activities are supervised by an internationally certified female
trainer. GoYAS by Activelife is a ladies-only initiative and closed to the general public to ensure
the privacy of participants. To register, visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com.
Revolution Nights
Every Wednesday, 6:00pm, Dubai Autodrome

Revolution Cycles Dubai bike shop is inviting everyone to head down to the Club Circuit at
Dubai Autodrome in Motor City for the free weekly community event of cycling, jogging, rollerblading or walking. The floodlit venue provides a safe and controlled environment for the whole
family. For more information, visit www.dubaiautodrome.com.
Paddle & Sole
May 23, 6:00am, Umm Suqeim Beach

Teams of three to five runners compete against teams of two to four paddlers. Paddlers will go
out to Jumeirah Beach Hotel and turn at 360 Restaurant at end of Jumeirah Beach Hotel pier
and go back past the start to DOSC. Runners will run down to Jumeirah Beach Hotel, turn and
run back up to DOSC. The club with fastest teams wins the beautiful trophy. For more information, visit www.dubaicreekstriders.org.
Glow & Go!
May 23, 8:00pm, Wadi Adventure, Al Ain

This 5km fun run will take place at night, isnt timed and is meant for everyone to enjoy! The
more glow sticks, funky neon clothes and glow paint, the better. Get ready for a crazy, neon
night that will also get you active. Cool down after the race with a splash in the surf pool and a
DJ party. Registration will start at 6:00pm. For more information, visit race@wadiadventure.ae.
Salalah Striders 10K & 5K Beach Challenge

May 30, 5:00pm, Hilton Salalah Resort, Oman
This is Salalah Striders first event and the 10km, 5km and 1km kids fun run categories will start
and finish at the Hilton beach resort. The course will be held on wet and compacted sand, not
on dry beach. Entry includes free entry to Hilton Beach Party afterwards. For more information,
contact kevinokane@live.com.
This is just a selection of the events taking place this month, for more upcoming events visit: www.outdooruae.com/event
OUTDOORUAE
NEWS + COMMUNITY
Vasilyev cruises to Abu Dhabi

Desert Challenge victory
Goncalves records dramatic bikes win
Russian Vladimir Vasilyev
cruised to a commanding cars
victory in the Abu Dhabi Desert
Challenge Powered by Nissan
as Portugals Paulo Goncalves
produced a brilliant surge on the
final leg to snatch the bikes title
from seven-time winner Marc
Coma.
Partnered by Konstantin Zhiltsov in a
Mini, Vasilyev took the 244km Abu Dhabi
Aviation Special Stage 5 to win by an
impressive 47 mins 55 secs from Polands
Adam Malysz and Rafal Marton in a
Toyota Hilux.
In one of the most dramatic individual
battles of the rally, Czech driver Miroslav
Zapletal clung on to third place in his
Hummer, edging out the UAEs Yahya
Alhelei by eight seconds after a valiant
effort by the Emirati to snatch the last
podium place in his Nissan Pick Up.
German driver Stephan Schott and
Duchman Eric Van Loon, both driving
Minis, completed the top six in the third
round of the 2014 FIA World Cup for
Cross Country Rallies for cars.
Matching the tussle between Zapletal and Alhelei
was the one which saw
reigning FIM world champion Goncalves wipe out
a one minute 31 seconds
overnight lead for this years
Dakar Rally winner, Coma, to
deny the Spaniard an eighth
Desert Challenge crown and
secure a first for himself.
At the end of a five-day
OUTDOORUAE
passage through some of the most

demanding desert terrain on earth, the
Portuguese rider won the opening round
of this years FIM Cross Country Rallies
World Championship for bikes by 20
seconds.
Spains Joan Barreda Bort, winner of
the previous two stages, took third place,
with the UAEs Mohammed Al Balooshi
recording a highly credible sixth position
overall, despite a frustrating last day when
his bike stalled.
Polands Rafal Sonik captured the Desert Challenge quads title for the first time
to add to his 2013 FIM world championship success.
We have seen desert rallying at its
best and have three very deserving new
champions, said Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Automobile and
Touring Club of the UAE, the rally organis-
ers, and FIA Vice President.

Becoming the second Russian driver to
win the Desert Challenge after Leonid Novitskiy in 2010, Vasilyev reached the end
of the Abu Dhabi Aviation stage to say:
Im very happy. Im sure when we enter
the podium it will come home that Ive
won the Desert Challenge. For me this is
definitely the most difficult leg of the FIA
Cross Country Rally series. On the last
stage there werent as many dunes and
we had to make our own tracks because
we didnt want to follow the bikes. The
Desert Challenge is the most challenging
experience in the FIA World Cup for Cross
Country Rallies. Its a very special feeling
to win.
A delighted Malysz completed the
stage to say: This is my first World Cup
podium so Im very happy today. I had
a sore neck from yesterday but my plan
was just to finish with a good pace and
tempo, not too fast but enough to finish
strongly.
After adding to a long list of impressive
finishes in the Desert Challenge alongside
co-driver Khalid Al Kendi, Alhelei said: It
was a tight race between me and Zapletal
for third. After 50km I caught up with
him and took three minutes off him, and
we were going head to head up to the
second passage control when my engine
started to overheat so I had to pull back.
Goncalves, who edged out Coma to
clinch last years FIM world title, said: I
feel really happy to have won and for the
team who altogether made an extraordinary job in Abu Dhabi. Weve had five
days of racing and no problems, and
it proves we are very strong and competitive. Im very confident for the future.
Today was a really fast stage. I knew I had
to catch Marc, and the first 90km were
very fast.
Provisional results
Cars:
1. Vladimir Vasilyev / K. Zhilstov (RUS / RUS) MINI All 4 Racing T1
2. Adam Malysz / Rafal Marton (POL / POL) Toyota Hilux T1
17:58.14
3. Miroslav Zapletal / Maciej Marton (CZE / POL) Hummer H3 T1
18:29.58
4. Yahya Alhelei / Khalid Alkendi (ARE / ARE) Nissan Pick UP T1
18:30.06
5. Stephan Schott / A. Schulz (DEU / DEU) MINI All 4 Racing T1
18:43.56
6. Eric Van Loon / W. Rosegaar (NED / NED) MINI All 4 Racing T1
19:07.51
7. Marek Dabrowski / Jacek Czachor (POL / POL) Toyota Hilux T1.1
19:13.48
8. Bauyrzhan Issabayev / Vladimir Demyanenko (KAZ / RUS) T1

Coma, who will be back next year to
pursue a record eighth bikes title, said: It
was a very nice race. I love the Abu Dhabi
Desert Challenge. I tried to fight right till
the end to catch Paulo, but well done to
him. It was a great race till the end.
Unfortunately, Cameron Waugh, a
British bike rider was killed in an accident
during the race. He was found by Polish
rider Jakub Przygonski and the paramedics arrived by helicopter. They brought
Cameron to Mafraq Hospital where he
was pronounced dead. Safety is always
our top priority, and the highly motivated
professionals in our Search and Rescue
and medical teams who responded to todays accident did everything within their
power. Our thoughts are with Camerons
family, stated Sulayem.
17:10.19
19:39.08
9. Reinaldo Varela / Gustavo Gugelmin (BRA / BRA) Toyota Hilux T1.1
20:44.14
10. Aidyn Rakhimbayev / A.Nikolaev (KAZ / RUS) MINI All 4 Racing T1.2
21:05.42
Bikes:
1. Paulo Goncalves (POR) Honda 450 CRF Rally
16:57.47
2. Marc Coma (SPA) KTM 450 Rally Replica
16:58.07
3. Joan Barreda Bort (SPA) Honda 450 CRF Rally
17:06.31
4. Jordi Viladoms (SPA) KTM 450 Rally Replica
17:38.36
5. Miran Stanovnik (SLO) KTM 450 Rally Replica
18:37.11
6. Mohammed Al Balooshi (UAE) KTM 450 Rally Replica
18:57.53
7. Helder Rodrigues (POR) Honda CRF 450
19:00.16
8. Oliver Lloyd (GBR) Speedbrain 450 Rally
20:00.16
9. Jakub Piatek (POL) KTM 450 Rally Replica
20:00.48
10. Santosh CS (IND) KTM 450 Rally Replica
20:09.42
Adventure HQ launches in Abu Dhabi

Photos By: OutdoorUAE
Adventure HQ is the ultimate outdoor adventure superstore, proudly born and bred in
the UAE, has now launched its
third store in Abu Dhabi. Located on Level 2, Dalma Mall in
Musaffah.
Adventure HQ is a dedicated outdoor
adventure retail specialist offering equipment for a wide range of active lifestyle
pursuits such as: fishing, kayaking, diving,
camping, hiking, cycling, off-roading, yoga,
fitness, Stand Up Paddling, water sports,
active wear, footwear plus plenty more.
With an extension to the retail business
Adventure HQ has developed Adventure
Zone by Adventure HQ.
Launched in Abu Dhabi, Adventure
Zone, spanning 20,000sqft, is the largest
indoor adventure park in the region. The
facility includes the following elements:
Skate park, which is the largest and
among the best in the region. It has five
sections to it a skate section; a large
street section; a bowl and a half pipe section and a BMX area with a Perspex wall
ride. Its great for all tastes and experience
levels.
Pump track, where you can take a

BMX, skate board or scooter on and pump
them around the 88m long course.
Trampoline Park, which is a first in the
region. This is a series of trampolines all
connected together, surrounded by vertical
ones on the wall. Bounce around the room
and you are guaranteed to have a laugh!
Boulder wall, which is 3.5m high and
has over 50 different routes of all levels
of difficulty, ideal for all age groups and
experience levels.
Cable climb course, which has 11 challenges set at over 3.5m off the ground. It
gives a birds eye view of the all the activities, and works its way over the retail store
as well. There is nothing quite like this in
Abu Dhabi and no previous experience is
required!
We have The Lodge, which is a rustic
log cabin just like you would find in the

alpine! You can book this out for any
special occasion giving you a central spot
among all the action. Perfect for parties
and corporate events.
We are enormously proud of how far
weve come since opening our first store
in Dubai in June 2011. Adventure HQ is
a multi-award winning brand; we attract
the best people in the region to work with
us; had over 800,000 customers visit our
stores; sold over a million products and
attended over 150 community events.
Our business model has been adapted
with our first concept store at The Beach,
JBR specifically tailored to fit the tourist
and beach market and now we launch
the largest indoor adventure park in the
region right here in Abu Dhabi. We are
looking forward to going from strength to
strength across the UAE and getting more
people outdoors and being adventurous
says Founder and General Manager, Sam
Whittam.
Live the adventure!
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DUBAI
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Polaris and its vehicle body designs and names are registered trademarks
of Polaris Industries Inc. used under license.
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AL AIN
MUSSAFAH
LEBANON
QATAR
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Showroom No. 8,
Al Ghandi Complex
Nad al Hamar Road,
Ras al Khor
Al Masaood Showroom
Sanaya
M4, Sector 13, 10th Street
PHONE + 971 3 7219999
PHONE + 971 2 5555144
Helmets On Sarl
Independence Street, Sodeco
Beirut
Protech Powered Sports Co

Street, Salwa Road PO Box, 91
Doha, Qatar
FairTrade Auto Services LLC

P.O. Box 2636, Ruwi
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PHONE + 961 1 644442

Mr. Khalil Abu Chwareb
EMAIL khalil@helmets-on.com
PHONE + 974 44513007
PHONE + 968 96778552

Mr. R. K. Sunder
EMAIL sunder@ftgroupholding.com
PHONE + 971 4 2896100

EMAIL sse@polarisuae.com
EMAIL info@protech.com.qa
One for the books
Colin Phillips sets 24-hour

Bungee World record
Words By: Glaiza Seguia
Photos By: Gravity Zone
Jumping from a crane at a

dizzying height is something of a one
in a lifetime experience for most of us;
an item in the bucket-list that needed
to be crossed out and maybe never to
be done again. But for British expat
Colin Phillips once isnt enough and he
did it 151 times to clinch the Guinness
World Record.
The 33-year-old fitness coach based in

Dubai set a new world record on March
21st at the Porsche Maccan 24 Bungee
event in Dubai Autodrome for the most
number of bungee jumps within 24
hours. He started on Thursday at 7:00pm,
followed by another session on Friday
morning. Around 11:00am, Colin already
made 106 jumps and broke the original
record of 105 jumps by South African Kevin
Huntly in May 2011, but he continued until
the afternoon session adding 45 more
jumps. In between his jump, OutdoorUAE
got to speak with the man of the moment.
Doing night jumps is really exciting. But I
actually hammered my body quite hard,
he stated. We went to different cords.
From red, which is my normal body weight,
to blue which is normally for a heavier persons weight. So I picked up a few injuries.
I dislocated my little finger and they had
to re-pop that back when I got back down.
I also took quite a heavy hit on one of the
legs. Colin also admitted to having a lot
of bruises and repetitive strain injuries on
his ankles and hips, but he is in good spir-
12
OUTDOORUAE
its. I didnt think it will be that hard on my

body but it really has. It feels like Ive been
beaten up and played a couple of rugby
back to back. But the fun factor is the team
around me, they are absolutely incredible. The event itself with all the sponsors
are phenomenal and having people in
the cage with me friends, sponsors and
guests made it worthwhile.
It took 10 months of extensive preparation for Colin to made it to the book.
According to him, he is at the gym twice a
day, doing multiple jumps during weekends and CrossFit training. We thought
after the repeated drops he would feel a
bit queasy, though he did get acid reflux
he assumed from something he must have
eaten, Colin soldiered on and effectively
kept hydrated and focused throughout.
Colin hasnt even mentioned this feat to
his mum yet. Im gonna wait until this is
completely finished so she can sleep at
night, Colin quipped. We did have one
conservation last year about it, but she
didnt want to hear about it. So once this
is done, Ill give her a call. A Guinness
World Record adjudicator was present and
handed the plaque to Colin.
The event was in support of Breast
Cancer Arabia (BCA), a foundation aimed
to provide financial assistance to women
diagnosed with breast cancer, and was

organised by Gravity Zone. This is not
really about proving anything, Colin, who
donned pink shorts and socks to represent
BCA, explained. Its a childhood dream of
mine to get into the book. I also want to
bring awareness to Breast Cancer Arabia
which is a very worthwhile charity.
Gillian Brunton, Managing Director
for Inner-G and handles corporate social
responsibility and sport for social change
concentrated on empowering women, said
of the organisation: They are the only
foundation in the Middle East that keep
the money for expats and for locals, but
you must be a resident in the UAE. Any
treatment, support, diagnosis or after care,
if they are resident and perhaps doesnt
have insurance or less fortunate, there is
money available for them.
BCA Director Elizabeth Reyes added:
You can donate online, you can sponsor
some of our events or you can just talk
about us. Education is a big thing, but its
the different type of education and how it is
delivered. It is down to the individual to get
the best treatment that they can afford, but
just because you are on limited income, that
doesnt mean you are entitled to any lesser
professionalism. Information, proper awareness and staying healthy are important.
EVENT REPORT
Asics run series

Anne-Marie Hyrylainen
continued to dominate the

Ladies 8km Asics Run Series
with another sub 30 minuter
run in Race 4 of the series on
18th January 2014.
Sanctioned by the Dubai Sports

Council and organised by Super
Sports Events, the Asics 8km and
4km Run Series attracted over 350
runners of all ages and abilities
as they wound their way through
the private roads of Meydan. A
near perfect morning welcomed
all runners with a definite increase
in temperature from month ago,
seeing everyone quickly into their
stride.
Hyrylainen blitzed the 8km
course in 28 minutes and 34 seconds with a well deserved second
place going to Erin Wood in 32:24
TOP 3 AGE GROUP RESULTS

4km boys under 8 years
Lukas-Sebastian Ellis 17:44
Nicolas Safieddine 20:19
Nabeel Khan 20:20

4km girls under 8 years
Cerys Dingle 20:38
Sophie Wazny 23:22
Ava Omalley 24:41
4km boys 9 - 12 years
Rayhaan Guerni 0:17:42
Nicholas Heinio Widell 0:18:35
Ahan Kalra Mathur 0:20:05
while Ailene Buenaventura finished

third in 32:29. Himphrey Mungai
reversed the tables on log leader
Abdullah Harrati in the Mens 8km
race when he picked up the title
in a very quick 25:48. Harrati managed to hold on to second place
in 26:54 with Godfrey Setaba third
in 27:07.
The 4km for Men saw 17-yearold Rahul Raghuveer run a hat-trick
of wins when he once again
crossed the line in first place in
14:48. David Murphy secured a
podium spot in 15:19 and was
pushed all the way by young Alexander Cargill who finished third in
a time of 15:44. On the ladies side,
it was all juniors on the podium
with Amber Harding winning her
second race in a row in 16:29 followed by Megan Dingle in 17:43
with Nicole Greer rounding all off
in third in 18:26.
Another great morning of road
running! commented race organiser Warren van der Merwe from
Super Sports Events. We had
15 families enter this mornings
race where there had to be four
or more people from the same
family making up a team with
the youngest runner being Luke
OMalley aged only five years and
he finished the 4km in sixth place
out of 12 boys aged 12 and under
in a time of 26:21 amazing stuff.
With only one race left in the series
we will be looking at finishing this
series with a big turnout and look
at offering all something special
for the last race of the season, he
added.
This series of races is co-sponsored by GO Sport, The Track Golf
Club, Meydan Hotel, IMAX, Sport
360, Sharbatly Fruit, OutdoorUAE
and Barry Morgan Sports Photography.
Race 5 is scheduled for Saturday, 3rd May 2014 with entries
closing the Wednesday before
race day. All information regarding
the races can be found at www.
supersportsdubai.com or contact
4km men 19 years & over
event organiser Warren van der
David Murphy 15:19
Merwe at 050 6575021 or
Harvey Ellis 16:29
warren@supersportsdubai.com.
Laurent Vigneron 17:08
4km ladies 19 years & over
Olga Cranga 19:39
Aoife Lehane 19:49
Ferakh Lakhany 20:28

David Murphy M19+ 15:19
Harvey Ellis 16:29
Laurent Vigneron 17:08
8km boys 18 years & under

4km girls 9 - 12 years
Matthew Lamb 32:41
Megan Dingle 0:17:43
Steffan Kunoy 33:32
Nicole Greer 0:18:26
Owen Whyte 35:16
Zala Mazej 0:19:16

8km girls 18 years & under
4km boys 13 -18 years
Olivia Johnson 38:11
Rahul Raghuveer 14:58
Jenna Whyte 44:51
Alexander Cargill 15:44
Layal Halabi 54:29
Andrew Sausman 20:33
4km girls 13 18 years
Amber Harding 16:29
Maeva Vigneron 18:36
Imogen Sylvester 18:59
8km men 19 39 years

Humpfrey Mungai 25:48
Abdallah Harrati 26:54
Godfry Setaba 27:07
8km ladies 19 39 years

Anne-Mari Hyrylainen 28:34
Erin Wood 32:24
Laura Hampton 35:38
8km men 40 - 49 years
David Redvers 31:04
Sumeet Mishra 32:18
Christy Maloney 32:22
8km ladies 40 - 49 years
Rachel Harding 39:00
Marielle Heinio Widell 39:30
Louise Morris 39:39
Neil Smith 31:32
Glen Mundy 36:33
Chris Lamb 38:25
8km ladies 50 years & over
Elizabeth Driver 34:34
Brigette Stoffberg 42:04
Lauren Ngo 47:49
OUTDOORUAE
13
EVENT REPORT
Stand up! stand out!
2014 Abu Dhabi All-Stars Grand Slam

Photos By: Abdel Elecho
The heat can be felt throughout the capital and its not just
because of the rising temperature. International Stand Up
Paddling stars returned to the
UAE and intensified the action
at the 2014 Abu Dhabi All-Stars
Grand Slam, which is part of
the around-the-globe Stand Up
World Tour (SUWT) and World
Series hosted by the Waterman
League that will run until the last
quarter of the year.
Established in 2009, SUWT is the official
World Championship Tour for the sport
of Stand Up Paddlesurfing with events in
six countries and participation of different nations. While the Stand Up World
Series provides a professional platform for
the worlds best racers to determine the
legitimate Mens, Womens and U16 World
Champions. The WQS Series spans the
globe, and culminates in the World Cham-
pionship Finals at Turtle Bay on the North

Shore of Oahu in October. Last year, the
Abu Dhabi All-Stars Invitational was only
an exhibition stopover, but this time, it has
been upgraded to a scoring event with a
full fleet of riders including last years Mens
world champ, Kai Lenny (Naish) of Hawaii.
From Oahu, Hawaii, the athletes made
their way to Alagoas, Brazil and then to our
sunny shores from April 13th to 19th. Brazilian talent Caio Vaz (Art in Surf) has raised
the bar early with two wins at Sunset Beach
and Alagoas Pro Grand Slam, securing
the top spot in the Mens ranking. On the
ladies side, 2013 Womens champ Nicole
Pacelli also from Brazil is first in the World
Tour rankings. And after a dominant performance in Alagoas, the 2013 second placer,
Australian ace Angela Jackson (Fanatic)
now sits atop the World Series rankings.
The Abu Dhabi leg of the series saw
stirring action at an equally impressive setting at the Wadi Adventure pool in Al Ain
and Yas Marina waters. Waterman League
founder Tristan Boxford is thrilled to be
back in the desert after last years inaugural Middle East event. We did it as an
exhibition event first to see how it will be
received and all the athletes voted unanimously for it to be included in the series,
he said. Its definitely better this year. It
was challenging because so many people
were on the wave pool, so theres a whole
different dynamic. Here in the Yas Marina,
its been great, we had our full team here to
monitor the race. This is such a controlled
environment that it makes it quite easy. We
are definitely fortunate to be here and the
amazing setting just brings more profile to
it.
Surf
It was an intense three-day heats battle
for the surf competition with a unique repachage format and set against a backdrop
of mountain, sand and chlorine wave pool.
The 2013 and first ever SUWT womens
champ Nicole Pacelli from Brazil started
strong and powered through the semis,
but was taken down by Iballa Moreno
(Starboard) of Spain. Izzi Gomez (Starboard)
from Florida had a slow start but found her
pace, moving ahead Sophia Bartlow. Iballa
was on fire but fell short during the finals,
taking second, while Izzi at the top podium
finish. Im just really happy that it went the
way it did and I just want to say congratulations to Iballa because she killed it in that
heat, said Izzi.
Sean Poynter (Starboard) from Florida
was on great form, marking some of the
highest scores in the heats, besting Hawaiis
Mo Freitas (Focus SUP) in the semis, but the
finals boiled down to Sean and Kai, who
performed a perfect air reverse into a 360,
landing his first season win in style.
Long distance
The sweltering 40 didnt stop the athletes
from paddling long and hard for 8.5km
course on the first day of racing at the Yas
Marina. Lina Augaitis made a spectacular
debut at the Stand Up World Series charging in the long distance and clocking in
1:02:24:5, with Manca Notar (Naish) from
Slovenia a close second at 1:04:02:8 and
Kelsa Gabehart on third at 1:07:20:9. The
win came as a shock to Lina. Somehow,
Im actually okay in the heat, despite coming from somewhere really cold, said the
Canadian athlete. I felt really good despite
a wrong turn in the far buoy. People in the
SUP community are so kind, the girls yelled

out to me, so I had the chance to turn
around and catch up. I just pushed really
hard.
The boys from Hawaii dominated the
endurance race. Kai had a good head start
and didnt push too hard too early, aiming
for a breakaway at the final leg. But it was
Connor Baxter (Starboard), who made
tactical moves and sprinted to victory at
58:14:08. Kai clocked in at 58:16:03, while
Zane Schweitzer (Starboard) at third place.
Sprint
Fuelled by tight competition at the previous days long distance leg, athletes blazed
through the M-shaped sprint course,
matching each other stroke for stroke.
Kai, who was consistent throughout the

events, dominated all his heats and took
the overall sprint win with Zane at second
and Connor on third. Zane was thrilled to
be back here and with his current strong
finishes. Its one of my best finishes in the
World Series. Im super stoked to be in the
UAE once again because its such a cool
place. Its relieving that this is all over, we
gave it our all these last two days. I love
these events because no matter how the
surf goes, you always have another chance
to give your all in the races. Were too
blessed to be stressed here.
Despite being forced to withdraw at
the long distance due to illness, Angela
was fully recharged and ready to take on
the course, and that she did at breakneck
speed. I really had a good night sleep
last night and I woke up this morning and
felt unreal so I wasnt going to lose, she
stated. On second place was Lina and third
is Manca. Local resident Jen Scully proudly
represented the UAE and also participated
in the sprints. They were really fast and the
course was really technical. It was great to
race at their level so I just kind of gave it my
all, said Jen of Live Love SUP.
Another Naish team rider Casper
Steinfath from Denmark, whos currently at
seventh in the Series ranking, earned the
special Sportsman Award at the Abu
Dhabi Grand Slam for being an excellent
ambassador of the sport and showing positive attitude throughout the competition.
Casper took home a huge glass trophy
replica of the Burj Khalifa.
The event wrapped up with SUP clinics
for the youth and Fun Team Relay Race.
With the growing amount of talent, fans
and local interest for Stand Up Paddling,
the good future of the sport in the region
is certain.
OUTDOORUAE
15
Making waves
Kai Lenny

The big wave surfer, kitesurfer and Stand Up Paddler

snatched the overall championship at the 2013 Waterman
League Stand Up Paddle World
Series. Although the 21-year-old
Maui waterman, didnt make it
to the Abu Dhabi stopover last
year, he made it this time even
after an injury from a brutal wipe
out in Hawaii.
The Naish rider and Red Bull athlete
made a massive splash with an overall win
at the Abu Dhabi All-Stars Grand Slam. We
chat with the three-time SUP world title
holder and overall nice guy about his first

time in the Middle East and love of the
water.
Welcome to the UAE! You werent here
last year, glad you could join us this time.
Its my first time ever in the Middle East and
its so cool. Its such a different culture and
experience from what Im used. Both Dubai
and Abu Dhabi are just incredible. Its an
unusual place to see all these amazing
buildings and structures; its crazy how big
everything is here. I expected the heat, but
I didnt actually realise its going to be this
hot [laughs].
Congrats on winning the surf competition.
Thanks. I was so happy and I also learned a
lot because I was able to really try and keep
practicing. The wave pool is crazy. They
look like normal waves but they dont sure
feel like it; even having fresh water instead
of salt water, theres water density difference. Its like a wave pool turned into a
skatepark, you have to know your run.
How did you prepare for this
leg of the series?
Theres no real training for the heat. The
only thing would be actually coming to
the UAE early and train. I wasnt able to do
that because I was in Brazil. Though Brazil
is already hot and in Maui too, but not as
hot as here. I think it would be worse if we
didnt have the wind, luckily we do and it
cooled us down a bit.
Its just the beginning at the season,
every race is important but usually it will
always come down to the very last stop. I
definitely want to get the best results I can
here and I want to do the best I possibly
can for the long season.
We heard about your wipeout at Peahi,

that was a nasty-looking gash.
I cut my foot in half with my board fin.
Unfortunately, that threw a little curve
ball at me at the beginning of the season
because I lost out on a month of training,
pretty much all of January. I had no training,
I was just sitting around trying to recover, so
that definitely threw me off a little bit. But
on the other hand, it was really good as I
think I needed the break because Ive been
going so hard for so many years without a
break. I think it was just a sign of some sort.
The hardest part for me was trying to take a
rest, because I dont know how to. To force
myself to rest was really difficult, but its
mandatory.
How was the recovery?
Recovery was fine, it didnt hurt at all. Its
just in an inconvenient spot. The fin got
right in between my toes. But it actually
healed up incredibly. If you would have
seen it in person youll be blown away
at how well it healed. It could have been
on those injuries that could have put me
out for two months but it just ended up a
month. This was for sure my worst injury,
fortunately. Its really bad, but at the same
time it could have gotten a lot worse.

Youre currently at number two,
whats your gameplan for this season?
Basically, just win. Its still so early in the
year that you really dont know what will
happen, everything could completely switch

around. Midway season is where I have my strongest events and if I could continue doing that, its
going to work out perfectly.
It all comes down to the person. I think the
only way to do it is kind of look inward and just
to win each event at a time. Just go with the
punches versus already trying to see the end results, because it always changes in the end. Last
year at the racing tour, Connor had the prime
position, but I came from behind and was able to
scoop it up. Its not impossible for those things
to happen.
In this event, all the guys on top are right in the
mix but it wouldnt be unusual if somebody unexpected could win. Theres always a dark horse,
it just depends if that person gets his chance or
theyre just feeling better than everyone else that
day.
When the going gets tough,
whats your motivation?
Competition is such a huge goal, but at the end
of the day, the reason why Im doing all this is
because I love it. Its just fun and Im always going
to do it if its fun. As long as I keep realising my
goals and making new ones, Im probably going
to be able to do this forever. It just comes down
to reinventing yourself.
Whats your strategy for the sprint races?
We have quite a few buoy turns, so its how quick
and how tight you can make your turns. Buoy
turns are interesting because if somebody is slow
in front of you, it will slow you down, so its about
choosing the right line and basically going hard
the entire race. The sprint and the long distance
course are just across from the Ferrari World,
across the Formula 1 track. There are a lot of
racing around us which gives some inspiration to
paddle a little harder; wed like to pretend were
racing on the track.
We know youre all friends here,
but with all the talented athletes,
the competition must be tough.
The progression of the sport is increasing; everyone is becoming stronger and has better equipment. For sure, its definitely a tighter race and it
comes down to who has their best day. As a Naish
team, were all really close and once we are all on

the water, it doesnt really matter what brand is on
your feet.
As last years champ and at such a young age,
do you feel more pressured?
Ive definitely accomplished a lot of my goals and
everything from this point on is just icing on the
cake. I think Im only becoming more and more
competitive. For sure the pressure of being world
champion definitely weighs a little bit more than
not, but at the same time it depends on what you
make of it. You either take it as a positive and use
it as an encouragement or you can take it as a
negative and turn it into pressure.
Which do you think is more difficult
windsurfing or surfing?
Surfing is one of the sports where it takes a lifetime
to learn, youll never master it. A wave is a wave,
and youre only as good as the wave allows you to
be. As for windsurfing you have the wind and once
you learn it, you can do it. But windsurfing, at the
same time, youll never be really able to master it.
I could almost say that windsurfing is the harder of
the two because youre dealing with two separate elements, winds and waves. A wipe out at
windsurfing, where youre going a lot faster and
have the chance of hitting your equipment, will
most likely going to hurt more. Id say the learning
curve for windsurfing is much harder.
How will you encourage the growing SUP community here in the region?
The popularity of SUP didnt surprise me at all.
Its the easiest way to learn water sports and
the easiest way to learn surfing. Just hold on to
those dreams of riding good waves one day and
just use what you have surrounding you at the
moment, what you have at your disposal. It all
comes down to how passionate you are for what
it is that youre doing. I would encourage people
to look at it as a good work out. Here in the UAE,
its pretty flat and you can burn up to 360 calories
in a half hour by just paddling. Its the ultimate full
body workout and if you look at it that way, you
start doing it and then you realise how much fun
it is. At the same time, youre developing different
skill set. SUP is kind of the gateway to being a
good surfer, I think.
EVENT REPORT
Words By: Natalio Liares

Photos By: PHISHFOTOZ, Louise Adamson
Additional Photos By: Russel Chavez
I signed up for this 30km with

the idea of ending the season with
something unique a night race
in the wadi. After I completed the
Extreme3 140km, I figured I might as
well get my feet wet (or cracked and
blistered) as it was predicted to be a
rainy night.
The Night Rebel had two aspects that
appealed to me. First, it is the only night
race in the region. Second, Night Rebel had
three races (10km, 20km and 30km), well
organised by Urban-Ultra and it is in April.
Nothing better than to end the running
season with something easy (you heard it
right) before it gets too hot. In this running
season, I have basically completed nine
races from November to April, claiming two
ultramarathons, one marathon, three halfmarathons and three 30-40km mountain
races. After learning about the trail running
community in Dubai, I realised that trail
runners are a rare breed of bizarre that still
train even when its freezing in winter and
freaking hot during summer, and still wake
up early in the morning to get in a three or
four-hour trail/sand run.
Training
Well, crap. I did sit down and wrote myself
a nifty little training plan that looked really
great on paper. I will say that despite not
training adequately according to popular
standards, I did manage to log about two
to three runs per week with a reasonable
long run on Friday mornings and a few of
those on the trails. Im racing mostly every
other weekend since January. I also cross
train with weights. Luckily, I was able to join
18
OUTDOORUAE
night run
a group (www.dubaitrailrunning.com) run

on Showka where the race took place two
weeks out from race day. It started 6:20am I
logged 31km that day and realised this was
going to be a lot harder than I thought as
the temperature rises from 20 to 34 as we
finish.
Race day
The conditions of the evening were too
good to last. The weather had brought
some rain during the day, and it helped to
keep everybody cool. My friend Zuzana and
I arrived with an hour and a half to go. We
had just enough time to do a gear check
and set the mood. Race briefing starts
7:45pm. Twenty minutes later, I was running
through the dark by the light of my headlamp. I had decided going into this race to
leave all expectations at the start line. After
all, you only get one first at each distance. I
wore my Suunto, but decided not to look at
it often. I wanted to listen to my body and
not my watch. I started off mid pack and
decided to take the first 1.5km climb nice
and slow. I figured that since I had no idea
how many people were ahead or behind
me, I wasnt going to start my usual calculating of who I needed to pass in order to start
picking off people in my category. Not until
the 10km mark. The first 15km went pretty
darn swell as its mostly uphill. I was very
conscientious of my fueling and took a gel
at 7km (much sooner than I usually do on
road races). I knew that the elevation gains
and losses affect your body much differently. I never stopped at the water stations
because I had enough of electrolyte drink,
water and gel in my hydration pack. Enough
to fuel up to the turning point (15km). On
that note, I ended up being happy with my
choice. My pack never bothered me and I
was able to sustain my own fueling throughout most of the race, avoiding time costly
stops at the water stations. The point was
to cover as much ground as possible before
feeling any fatigue at all, to shorten the
race, in a way.
I started to notice that as I could see the
line of runners ahead of me, I only noticed
about two men. My immediate competitive
nature kicked in and I started to wonder if
Id be able to catch any of them. I didnt
speed up, I still listened to my body and the
gap between us remained about the same
until 9km. I hit the wind and started to close
the gap between myself and these men.
I passed all two as I came into the 11km
mark. This 30km course was out and back
along the same route. As I started to near
the halfway water station, all the runners
ahead of me started passing me on the
other direction as they went back out. This
allowed me to see how many people were
ahead of me. I saw seven. That meant that
coming into the halfway point, Im eighth.
I arrived at the halfway point at 1:30:12. I
was pleasantly surprised with my time. Then
Ive heard a voice-over from the crew, The
French Navies are fast, take them down one
by one. This gave me quite the mental
boost as I filled up my electrolyte bottle and
turned out for the downhill.
The downhill
Heading down the first 3km descent was
cooler as temperature dropped from 27
to 22. My mind was renewed but my legs
and heart rate were crying. I turned up my
music, put my head down and just put one
foot in front of the other until I reached the

20km water station. I passed one navy as
he stops for water. One thing I have learned
about these long distances is that you cant
focus on the entire distance; that will crush
you mentally. You have to compartmentalise. Once I got to the top, I knew it was nice
and then downhill for another 13km before
the last climb and undulations.
The last 5km was brutal. Those hopes
were almost dashed. Somehow I messed
up. And so I tripped, with my toe catching on a big rock 100m before the water
station. There was a strange moment when
I sailed through the air, flailing a bit before
I landed, knowing I was in a slight dive
position. In that split-second, it was frightening to anticipate what might happen.
My life didnt flash through my mind, but

the question like will I be able to finish?
certainly did. I was hit with most of the force
of the blow centered on my core, I did get
my hands down and scraped my palm. I
stopped for a bit to assess, felt generally
okay, and continued on at a slower pace. I
started repeating a mantra that had popped
into my head. I knew that no matter how
slow, I just needed to keep moving forward.
Forward is progress. I only had 5km to go
and it was motivating to know that I would
probably finish under three hours. I knew
I was doing okay, considering I had made
pretty good time on my first half.
I started picking up the pace again and
my legs definitely felt fatigued from 26km
mark, though I dont quite consider it as
bonking just borderline delirium. My heart
rate soared as I had to quickly react to avoid
falling entirely when I hit a rock again (which
Van Beek
of course, I still did one more time

in 29.2km mark). It didnt slow me
down but certainly added to the
mounting mental fatigue.
I crossed the finish line with an
official time of 2:57:09 and it was
good enough for fifth overall. It
was extremely rewarding. Zuzana
finished as first overall female with
time of 3:35:40. I just love the
Energizer Night Rebel, the positive
atmosphere is contagious. We took
in some breathtaking countryside,
as well as gritty local terrain and
a friendly racing scene. No iPod
necessary. Enjoyed the trails in the
peaceful evening. This left me feeling energised and excited.
Training tips:
Make sure you do some runs on
terrain, to get your ankles and
legs used to the rougher surface,
descents and climbs. Train in your
shoes, get used to them. Run at
night with a headlamp.
Racing tips:
Always take first-aid supply. Tie your
laces very securely. Use a good
headlamp. Go steady at the start.
Always obey the marshals instructions. Hydrate well and enjoy it!
swims to 6 from 6
Gwen van Beek from Sports
Life Swim Academy continued
her amazing run of wins at Race
2 of the Zoggs/GO Sport Mina
Mile Open Water Swimming
Race for the 2013/14 series.
Hosted by Le Meridien Mina
Seyahi Beach Resort and Marina and the Dubai International
Marine Club, this Dubai Sports
Council sanctioned event attracted over 220 entries ranging in ages from six years old
through to 50 years and over.
Van Beek built on her success from Race
1 in November 2013 by swimming to her
first title this weekend in the 800m event
and clocked a finish time of 12 minutes 57
seconds. Lucy Agnew was a full 30 seconds
back in second place with Kayla Berry in
third in 14:13. Van Beek then took to the
waters for the 400m swim and was first out
again in a time of 7:17. Agnew gave her

a much better race this time and finished
second once again in 7:23 with Dannielle
Hatcher third in 7:30. The final race of the
morning, the Mina Mile of 1600m, had Van
Beek cross the finish line in 25:06 making
it six out of six wins for the 2013/14 season
of the Zoggs Mina Mile Open Water Swim
Series. Christina Hammervold pushed Van
Beek all the way in this race but ended up
six seconds behind her in a time of 25:12
with Dora Cerva clinching third in 25:52.
The 200m swim for girls Under 12 years
was won by Greta Agnew in 02:58 with Lois
Van Beek second in 03:03 and Megan Rees
was third in 03:25
On the mens side, in the 200m swim
for boys aged 12 years and under, it was
Csonger Cellie emerging from the water
first in a fast 02:53 followed by Lucjan
Ulanowski sprinting across the line in 03:10
with Rayhaan Guerni taking third in 03:17.
Maxim Korshunov completed the 400m
swim in 06:35 with Abdulah Zeljo only 12
second behind him and Aleksandr Bezruchenko only two seconds behind Zeljo
which made for a great sprint finish. In the
800m swim it was Abdulah Zeljo crossing

the finish line first in 12:13 with Zeyad Dessouky (12:17) and Georgiy Hmelidze (12:41)
in second and third respectively. Neil
Ashcroft topped the podium for the Mile
swim in a time of 22:54 holding off Gergely
Molnar in second in 23:00 with Abdulah
Zeljo third in 23:36.
With no wind and slight cloud cover
to keep the sun out, it was a once again a
perfect morning for open water swimming
with calm flat waters in the Meridien Bay,
commented race organiser Warren van der
Merwe from Super Sports Events. Juniors
once again dominated all the events with
many of them to be seen on the podium
collecting their winners trophies! A big
thank you to all our sponsors and supporters involved: The UAE Swimming Federation, Zoggs as title sponsor for the fourth
year running were supported by Sport
360, The Heavenly Spa, The Westin Mina
Seyahi, GO Sports, Sharbatly Fruit, Barry
Morgan Sport Photography and Barasti
Beach, he added.
Full race results can be found
at www.supersportsdubai.com.
OUTDOORUAE
19
EVENT REPORT
Xtreme Wake hosts

Mind-Blowing
Beasts on Boards
in collaboration with Body Glove and Centurion Boats
Xtreme Wake hosted

a spectacular show on April
11th in Ghantoot Marina at the
Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotel &
Resort. For the first time ever
in the Middle East, the top five
riders sponsored by Body Glove
a leading, worldwide water
sports apparel brand put on a
performance of gravity-defying
tricks where riding was taken to
a whole new level.
20
OUTDOORUAE
Attendees got to witness wave history and jaw-dropping action as Rusty

Malinoski, current WWA World Champion;
Harley Clifford, 2012 Pro Tour and King
Of Wake Series Champion; Bob Soven,
Alliance Wakeboard Magazines 2013
Rider Of The Year; Melissa Marquardt,
Alliance Wakeboard Magazines 2012
Female Rider of the Year; and Keenan
Flegel, current World Wakesurfing Cham-
pion, all took to the waters.

To mark the occasion, Centurion
Boats unveiled their brand new,
nifty Xtreme Wake and Body Glove
co-branded Limited Edition ENZO
FX22 with which the riders performed
all their tricks. Hisham Hasan,vice
president of Tiki Style ME who is responsible for the Body Glove operations for the
Middle East said, Our partnership with
Xtreme Wake is going to new heights with
the opening of the new camp in Ghantoot and the arrival of the new Xtreme
Wake and Body Glove Boat. We are really
excited at the idea of growing and furthering the wakeboard and wake surfing
scene in the UAE like never before. This
launch with some of the top riders in the
world will be the start of many more great
things to come!
Karim Aly, Managing Partner of Xtreme
Wake, was thrilled at the turnout of the
event and spoke this of their accomplishments, Our success is fuelled by the
combination of hard work and a genuine
passion, but was mainly made possible by
our growing family of riders, the backbone of our company.
Amongst those in attendance were the
top management of Body Glove, Centurion Boats, Alliance Wakeboard Magazine
and Chairman of the Board of Body Glove
Middle East.
ACTIVITY REPORT
Deep water solo day trip

Words + Photos By: Tonya Colson
For the second time this year,

I joined an adventurous group of
Dubai-based climbers for a day of
deep water soloing. It started with an
early morning drive to Dibba, where a
speedboat took us northward up the
Omani coastline. Most of our group
had made this trip before, and all were
keen to test their skills on stunning
rock cliffs that rise up out of the sea.
Deep water soloing (DWS) is a form of
free soloing, or climbing without a rope.
The obvious advantage in DWS is that
deep water is below you, and falling into
water is much safer than falling onto rocks.
However, it is not without risks. Before
beginning any climb, we would assess the
water depth and check for hazards that
may lie below the waters surface. Hazards
can also be on the waters surface one
spot was deemed unacceptable because
of the large number of jellyfish guarding
the splash zone. Currents, safe boat access, and rock quality are also considered.
Finally, the route upward is planned to
allow a clear fall into the sea below. Safety
in DWS, as with all climbing, takes first
priority.
Matt Farr, from Mountain Quest, served
as our group leader. He has made a dozen
trips to the area over the past four years,
and has some of the best locations wired.
This time he came armed with freshly
laminated maps from www.redarmadapublishing.com, so he took us on a search for
new routes, in addition to stops at the old
favourites. The area boasts routes all the
way through 8a, on the French grading
system. On this trip, we climbed routes
graded 5+ to 6b.
Miriam Vadillo shows classic
form on the arte
Hala takes the plunge
Ryan Vatkin works the

overhang problem
Helen shows Dan the

way out of the water
Once a spot was approved, our climbers

wasted no time getting into their shoes
and onto the rock. In some spots we could
step from the boat to the wall, and in others we had to pull up out of the water. The
days conditions were absolutely perfect.
Calm seas and sunny skies made for an
ideal boat party atmosphere. The rock
was good as well. With solid handholds
and challenging routes, and it didnt take
long for climbers to be pushing their limits.
Climb up, jump down, repeat.
The vibe on the rock was supportive,
with people cheering each other on.
Sometimes on the wall its hard to see
where to place a hand or foot, and the
more experienced climbers were ready
with suggestions. There was also the
Matt Farr shows us the route up
The group
standard heckling for those who climbed

higher than planned, and were then scared
to jump down. Even with deep water
below, a jump (or fall) can be painful if you
hit the water wrong. Its the only way down
though, so a bit of cliff jumping bravery
and swimming skills are a must for DWS.
As someone relatively new to the sport
of climbing, I have really enjoyed the DWS
outings. Climbers of many different levels
can climb together. Being free of ropes
and gear keeps things simple just rock,
sun, water, and friends. Many of the routes
were too challenging for me as beginner,
but that didnt take away from my fun at
all. I climbed something hard (for me),
jumped from higher than I wanted to, and
felt inspired to keep improving.
Dan climbs the corner

while Ryan plans his jump
Qais on the face
EVENT REPORT
Polaris takes Camp RZR

to the United Arab Emirates
A first of its kind event that highlights global love of off-road riding
Polaris Industries Inc.,
the leading manufacturer of
off-road vehicles showed off its
RZR vehicles in the United Arab
Emirates. Camp RZR UAE took
place from March 28th through
March 29th in Dubai. The UAE
is home to some of the worlds
best sand dunes, making it the
perfect place to hold the first
Camp RZR event outside of
North America.
Polaris brought its top RZR engineers,
Jagged X race team and XP1K riding star,
RJ Anderson, to meet and ride with offroaders in the UAE. The event featured
riding activities, engineering displays,
giveaways, food, music and more. Camp
RZR UAE is modelled after the popular US
Camp RZR event that takes place annually in Glamis, CA. Each year, more than
20,000 riders travel to the Imperial Sand
Dunes Recreation Area to attend.
Camp RZR UAE is really a celebration
of off-road riding, said Craig Scanlon,
general manager of the Polaris RZR Divi-
sion. Polaris RZR is truly a global brand

and were excited to bring our premier
RZR event to the UAE given their vast
interest and passion for the brand.
Polaris is a recognised leader in the
powersports industry with annual 2013
sales of 3.8 billion USD. Polaris designs,
engineers, manufactures and markets

innovative, high quality off-road vehicles,
including all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and
the Polaris RANGER and RZR side-byside vehicles, snowmobiles, motorcycles
and on-road electric/hybrid powered
vehicles.
ACTIVITY REPORT
Every now and then you have to stop

in order to keep moving forward
An abridged excerpt from Ben Gleisner-Cookes blog Building a Better Ben offering
an interesting perspective on the importance of training, rest and recovery.
This year Ive had more

injuries than a Blockheads lookalike contest (tenuous reference
alert!). Therefore, its time to
accept I cannot do exercise
other than the most sedate kind
Im thinking lawn bowls. At
least I would, were it not for two
things. First, FMS.
FMS, or functional movement screening, is about as chilled a workout you can
do without lighting joss sticks, sticking
on some spandex and muttering, ommmmm for an hour. The aim of FMS is
to correct physical movement in order to
perform with better technique. This might
be performing something mighty like a
deadlift, but also means gaining improvement outside the gym such as achieving
better posture when being an office jockey.
Such improvements are achieved through
mobility exercises, breathing techniques
and practice of movements.
Even with FMS, Im still going to get
injured because despite being physically
fitter than at any time in my life, injuries are
a part of exercise. You can work to prevent
them, but I cant remember the last time I
could say I felt 100% fit. Factor in getting
older and it is safe to say physical output
will continually downturn.
Hence, taking a foot off the gas and
swapping out more intense workouts
for some active recovery is a worthwhile

investment. I cant stop the physical erosion
coming my way, but I can slow it down. This
past week it has also become clearer to me
that its equally important to turn off the
gas, get out the car and let the engine cool
down completely.
This is where the second thing comes
in. Rest. You may have heard of it? Some
exercisers treat it like a welcome friend and
meet up a few times per week; others fear
it like a lurking bogeyman threatening to
derail progress if they stop training even for
three seconds.
Exercise is a strange thing. The more you
do it, the more substantial the benefits but
the very thing you love can get addictive
to the point of being detrimental. Aint that
always the way?! Forming a good habit is
one thing, but overtraining at the expense
of adequate recovery is a road to harm. I
do CrossFit, and there is no denying this
at times involves high intensity, which in
turn brings risk if not carefully approached.
This intensity can also breed a certain arrogance, a sense of feeling invincible or,
worse still, adherence to that mantra no
pain, no gain.
This year Ive trained through niggling
injuries, even adapting while recovering from a torn calf muscle. This is not a
boast of, look how awesome I am, I train
through the pain! rather its an admission,
look at what an idiot I can still be. As
said, certain aches and pains are commonplace even on good days, but injuries
such as this should have prompted me to
stop sooner. I had physio, took a few days

off but worked around the injury. Given the
relapse suffered the brief recuperation was
clearly insufficient. I should have heeded
my bodys warning signs.
I didnt because, honestly, I was scared
of doing so. I was too worried stopping
would be an admission of not being fit or
strong enough, coupled with a feeling that
other improvements Ive made would be
setback or abandoned altogether. It would
be remiss not to mention that all this pressure was internal, I lay the blame solely at
my own door. Not so much, no pain, no
gain, as, plough on regardless, even if it
means ignoring all rational thought. Actually, maybe there isnt much difference.
Thankfully a week off has done wonders,
and shown me a fear of rest is as ludicrous
as it is stupid. Mine is a long-term project
filled with discovery and realignment, and
the lesson learned here, no matter how obvious, is that self-improvement is dependent on several factors. Finding the balance
between them will require experimentation.
At times it will mean embracing failure, but
this wont matter as long as the determination to succeed remains. Not time to take
up lawn bowls just yet.
Ben, a member at Reebok CrossFit
LifeSpark, has taken on the challenge
of self-improvement, and is sharing
his experience with his community. To
read more, check out: www.buildingabetterben.weebly.com.
OUTDOORUAE
23
ACTIVITY REPORT
Kitesurfing
in Qatar
Make it your next destination

Words By: Eulogy van Dyk
Photo By: Flokiteschool.com
The country might not be blessed

with beautiful mountains and rolling
hills but surrounded by water on three
sides and with regular winds, it becomes the perfect destination for one
thing in particular kitesurfing.
The sport of kitesurfing has become
increasingly popular over the past couple
of years all over the world, so it is no wonder that the IKA (International Kitesurfing
Association) are campaigning to include
it as an official sport for the 2020 Olympic
Games in Tokyo.
And this is also true for Qatar. According to Mark Kettenis from Fly-N-Ride there
were only a handful of kitesurfers in the
country when he arrived back in 2006,
since then it has grown to almost 500 active participants.
It is also interesting to know that Qatar
is busy building their own professional
team that is run via the Qatar Sailing &
Rowing Federation where they receive
coaching from top international athletes.
Why should Qatar be your next
kitesurfing destination?
All kitesurfers know one thing from the
very first time they hit the water you
need good wind! Not too much, and not
too little (although alterations and adjustments are often made to get out there!).
And this is the beauty of Qatar, a dominant wind direction from the northwest,
almost always constant in giving great
reliability when venturing out. This also
means the majority of spots is always
available. Due to the narrow geographical
borders of this diminutive nation, getting
from the north coast to the west is only a
short trip in the car, so you always have
more options if the wind is not blowing
at your favourite spot. And unlike many
other GCC nations, we have plenty of
them, so you are literally spoilt for choice.
No matter whether you are an advanced kitesurfer looking for a challenge,
or a beginner that is still learning the skills,
Qatar will have what you are looking for.
With mostly shallow open water, plenty
of space without any traffic and mild temperatures that wont scare you away, there
are only a few other places in the world
that can compete with this perfect recipe!
24
What is the best time

to fly your kite in Qatar?
The season is generally from January to
June, with June beginning the top month
due to the strong shamal (north) wind that
blows. From July to August, the kitesurfing
community usually takes a break, like almost
everywhere in the Middle East, due to the
hot water and air temperature. During the
months of December to February the water
temperature drops and a 3mm wetsuit will
come in handy, for the rest of the season
you can almost leave your wetsuit at home.
Important:
Although there are no government interference or regulations at the moment, it is
important to know that kiting is restricted
in front of the diplomatic area as well as in
front of the Emirs house. With the increase
of kiters in the country, safety is becoming
a concern, so always be aware of what is
going on around you and hook up with
a buddy that knows the area and dont
kitesurf alone.
Choose your favourite spot!
There are a variety of great spots to go
kiting in Qatar. Here are the top sites with a
short description:
Fuwairit Beach:
N2601 1.5932, E051 22.7259
One-hour drive from Doha, located on the
north road. Sandy beach with open sea and
a lagoon at high tide. Suitable for beginners
and experienced kiters. You will need a 4x4
to access the kitesurfing area and lagoon.
No driving on the beach is allowed from
April to July due to tortoises breading on
the beach.
Zekreet: N25 28.3076, E050 50.8741
A 50-minute drive from Doha, located on
the west coast of the country. A huge lagoon, with shallow water and enclosed bay.
Perfect spot for beginners. You do not need
a 4x4 vehicle to the spot. Note: shoreline is

rocky and slippery after high tide so stay in
the middle of the lagoon where the bottom
is sandy.
Majfar (Ghost town):
N26 8.1319, E051 18.2417
A one-hour and 15-minute drive from Doha,
located on the North road. Open ocean
with sand channels. This is more of an
intermediate spot at mid-high tide. You will
need a 4X4 to access the beach. With a normal car you can drive until the observatory.
Sumaysimah:
N25 35.4625, E051 29.3541
A 30-minute drive on the north road from
Doha you will find Sumaysimah a town
situated between Lusail and Al Khor. Huge
lagoon located on the east coast. It is a
beginner friendly spot. No 4x4 required.
Al Wakra:
N25 10.9637, E051 37.13
With only a 20 to 30-minute drive south
from Doha, this is the closest location. Open
sea, with a big beach at low tide and a very
small beach at high tide. A good spot for
beginners and no 4x4 vehicle is required.
Al Alia Island:
N25 24.2709, E051 34.0762
Its a perfect spot if you are only in town for
a day or two, and easily accessible from The
Pearl beach area. More suitable for intermediate riders, however the shallow flat water
on the south end provides a playground
for beginners. No 4x4 vehicle required,
although permission to enter Pearl beach is.
If you feel ready for a new challenge, or if
you are an experienced kiter looking for
something new, then this will be the best
decision you could make. Kitesurfing is considered one of the fastest growing sports
in the world, and this is true for the Middle
East as well. Drawn to the water in the desert countries with its searing temperatures,
you will find a fun and exciting new sport offering a world of adventure. And it doesnt
get better than here in Qatar!
Where to learn and where to shop?

Website
Fly-N-Ride
Contact details
Services
www.fly-n-ride.com
+974 33117089
+974 44982284 (shop)
info@fly-n-ride.com
Lessons
Equipment Shop
Flo Kite School www.flokiteschool.com
Kitesurfing
Qatar
+974 55041039
Lessons
florakiteschoolqatar@gmail.com Sales and
equipment Repairs
www.kitesurfingqatar.com +974 30179108

fly@tesurfingqatar.com
OUTDOORUAE
*Note: Currently there are no rental option for equipment
Lessons
Equipment online
shop
ACTIVITY REPORT
The best downhills

in the UAE
How to descend faster on your mountain bike
Words + Photos By: Sean James
People love making lists. However ranking the contents can be

contentious and subjective. In the past
months, OutdoorUAE has been uphill
and around corners, this month we
will give you a taste of the best five
off-road downhills in the UAE. There
are many more descents that could
have made the top five and it could
be argued that the contents could be
placed in any position. However being
a judge is a brutal task and we guarantee you will have fun with all of these.
The criteria for selection was loosely
defined but some of the following were
considered; a total elevation drop of over
100m, longer than 1km, some element of
technical interest and overall experience
plus amazing landscape. Mountain bikers
are lucky in the UAE and there are at least
the same number of tracks that could
be added from Musandam and the area
around Hatta.
All of these tracks can be done on a
hard tail with front suspension. Of course
it is more comfortable with a full suspension mountain bike. All can be downloaded in .gpx format from the OutdoorUAE
website.
Two notable exceptions have been
excluded from this list as they have now
been blacktopped. Jebel Yibir and Jebel
Jais are still world-class ascents and also
descents but now a lot smoother. They are
definitely worth doing either on a road bike
or mountain bike.
Techniques for descending faster
Just as some people dont like ascending,
some people dont like descending. These
are some tips that can help you feel more
confident descending.
Body position. Take your weight off
the saddle and move it over the rear
of the bike. This may look strange with
your bum sticking out over the seat but
it works. If it is a really steep descent
you should also consider lowering the
saddle. Doing this really makes the body
position more comfortable and stops you
from thinking that you are going to fall
forwards over the handlebars.

Similar to corners and ascents you should
try to stay low, keeping your stomach as
close to the bike as possible. Keeping
your full weight on the saddle is not a
good idea on descents as the force of
every impact will travel straight through
your body.
State of mind. Being relaxed and flexible
also helps to turn your body into a natural
Name
Start point
End point
shock absorber, so dont grip the handlebars over tightly. As your weight is off the
saddle, the flexibility is taken in your legs
and will far outweigh the ability of your
bikes suspension system. Gripping the
saddle lightly with your thighs will prevent
the bike from jumping about too much.
Braking. Brakes should be applied in an
even action and together, both front and
back. Using only one brake may cause it
to overheat and fail on long descents and
also for that wheel to lockup and slide out
of control. For really steep descents with
loose gravel, I prefer a technique similar
to ABS, where very quick repeated, but
not jerky, snatches of both brakes help
prevent the wheels sliding and locking.
Look ahead. The tendency on descents
is to look closely at the front wheel and
where it is immediately contacting the
ground. If you can, glance up occasionally and pick a line. Thinking 15-20m is
practicable and allows you to pick the
smoothest line and position for the next
difficult section.
Total elevation
drop
Length
1 Away from 252958.22N

Dibba
56 822.10E
252853.61N 205m
56 812.81E
3.1km
2 Glimpses
of Dibba
252958.22N
56 822.10E
253024.57N 353m
56103.05E
3.7km
3 Enter
Fujairah
25 930.34N
561021.40E
25 915.12N 424m
561236.66E
5.3km
4 Spring to
Khatt
253633.89N
56 39.59E
253647.50N 505m
56 041.80E
5.6km
5 Tayybah
gorge
252423.98N
56105.45E
252714.33N 344m
56108.61E
7.5km
6 RAK push
255154.06N
56 421.06E
255110.41N 389m
56 40.37E
2.1km
7 Masafi
Drop
251537.45N
561326.26E
251529.43N 121m
561256.00E
1km
8 Khatt
Backside
253550.78N
56 344.61E
253448.31N 406m
56 337.65E
3.3km
9 The
Fujairah
Monster
251136.26N
561039.83E
25 920.77N 573m
561235.86E
10.7km
*In no particular order
OUTDOORUAE
25
UAE Sailing Results April

UAE Nationals, Round 6,
Al Hamra, RAK: 11-12 April 2014
ACTIVITY REPORT
Optimist Junior (under 11 years)

1st Jentl Hanemaaijer, DOSC
2nd Jamie Wilkinson, DOSC
3rd Abdul AzizAl Hamadi, ADSYC
Sir Bani Yas Race

Words By: Jennifer Hardie
This April, 70 sailors

aboard 11 racing yachts took
part in the inaugural Sir Bani Yas
Race, organised by the Tourism
Development and Investment
Company (TDIC) Abu Dhabi in
partnership with Anatara Hotels
Resorts and Spas, Rotana Jet,
Xtra-Link, Volvo Ocean Race Abu
Dhabi Stopover and the Dubai
Offshore Sailing Club (DOSC).
The racing yachts set sail from DOSC
on 10 April, had a stop-over at Emirates
Palace on the 11th and arrived at Sir BaniYas Island on the 12th. Some lucky sailors
spent the week on Sir Bani Yas Island

exploring the sights and viewing the 30 different types of mammals that live on the island including the Arabian Oryx, cheetahs,
hyenas and giraffes. The rest of the sailors,
who couldnt stay, flew back to Dubai on
Rotana Jet for the week, returning on 17th
April for the official race back to Dubai.
This was a great inaugural event which
all of our sailors thoroughly enjoyed taking
part in. We look forward to working with
everyone to build on this initial success in
future years, said Calum McKie, ViceCommodore of DOSC.
After a full-on day and a half of racing,
which people could follow through onboard trackers provided by Xtra-Link, the
yachts finally arrived back at DOSC, with
Shahrazad, helmed by David Worrall, winning the race. David Worrall commented,
the Sir Bani Yas offshore tour is the most
fun I have had in a sailing event for many
Optimist
1st Saif Al Mansouri, EHC
2nd Mohamed Abdulkarim al Hamadi,
EHC
3rd Jentl Hanemaaijer, DOSC
Laser 4.7
1st Hamood Salem Al Zaidi, EHC
2nd Saif Ibrahim Al Naimie, EHC
3rd Mohamed Gtat, AHCSC
Laser Radial
1st Fionn Conway, DOSC
2nd Saeed Salem Al Zaidi, EHC
3rd Tallal Salem Al Zaidi, EHC
Laser Standard
1st Daniel Kilsby, DOSC
2nd John Woolcock, DOSC
3rd John Terry, ADSC
years. Due in equal measure to the superb
organisation of TDIC and Anantara, and
the challenging courses to Abu Dhabi that
mixed serious racing with fun cruising, it
was a fabulous event.
Eastern Motors organises Jeep

FUNatic for the first time in Al Ain
Organising a collection of
fun-filled activities to fit the lively
spirit of Al Ain residents, particularly Jeep owners, Eastern
Motors, Al Ain dealership of Fiat
and Jeep Chrysler and member
of Al Fahim Group, collaborated
with a number of Al Ain-based
entities to arrange the first ever
FUNatic.
Starting with a healthy breakfast at Eastern Motors showroom in Sanayia District,
150 participants totaling an impressive
50-car convoy, the Jeep owners were divided into four categories: Beginners under the names Fun Drive Grand Cherokee
which featured the largest number of
drivers and Fun Drive Wranglers, Intermediate Off-road Drivers and Advanced
Off-road Drivers.
26
OUTDOORUAE
At the event, Mr Nassim Mourani,

General Manager of Eastern Motors,
said, We plan to hold this entertaining and highly engaging event with our
customers on an annual basis. Al Ain
is a beautiful oasis with lots of exciting
recreational activities which residents can
take advantage of from off-roading and
white-water rafting to a more relaxing
morning kayaking or sunbathing on the
beach.
We had a large turn-up and are
thrilled to be enjoying a family day out
with Jeep owners in Al Ain as it gives us
a chance to get to know them on a more

personal level, he continued.
After a remarkable morning in the sand
dunes of the oasis, participants were
invited for lunch at Wadi Adventure, one
of the event sponsors, and unwind on the
poolside of the park. Other supports of
FUNatic were Al Ain Equestrian Shooting
and Golf Club, Al Jimi Mall, Tim Hortons,
Hilton Al Ain and Al Ain Water Park.
To finish off the fascinating day-out,
raffle prizes were handed out to winners
and included two airline tickets to Bangkok, Thailand.
ACTIVITY REPORT
Sail into the Sunset
on a shoestring
Ive always wanted to sail to the South Seas, but I cant afford it!
What these men cant afford is not to go. -Sterling Hayden in Wanderer
Words By: William Pardoe
Have you ever dreamt of buying

a yacht and just sailing away? It turns
out that its not such a pipe-dream
after all. With just 5,000 USD in your
pocket, you could be shaking hands on
a 34ft beauty, soon to be cruising past
palm-laden beaches with azure waters
lapping at your hull.
Sounds too good to be true? Well, Id
like to explain why such bargains are out
there, and how for a relatively small investment you could be rewarded with the life of
your dreams.
There are a few reasons boats can be
had so cheaply. For one, it is reported that
65,000 vessels were damaged by Hurricane
Sandy. That equates to a large supply in the
second hand market, many of which only
suffered superficial damage. The owners
have cashed their insurance, leaving the
yachts lying lonely in boat yards. It is obvious which these are by the scuffed hulls
and bent stanchions, though some have
sunk and been salvaged. A marine survey
will identify any skeletons in the closet.
That said, the best buys are from owners
who just want the boat off their hands.
For instance, they have bought it for the
sought-after berth it sits in, while having
no interest in the yacht itself. Likewise, the
death of the owner can leave a family with
unwanted berthing fees. Repossessions can
lead to a good bargain for a healthy boat;
the bank just wants to recoup what money
it can from a bad debt. So its not all bad
news and wheeler-dealing there really are
bargains to be had.
Hidden benefits
Though most of the vessels selling around
the 5,000 USD (18,000 AED) mark were
made in the sixties to late eighties (and

may require a little TLC), they did build
boats properly back then. Among experienced sailors, many consider the classic
designs to be more seaworthy than their
modern counterparts, especially the lightly
constructed Caribbean and Mediterranean
cruisers.
Buying older means youll get a lot more
boat for your buck. The Cal 28 is up for a
mere 1,900 USD - money can hardly be
an excuse when there are such deals to
be had! I have met a number of people
whove sailed from North America to South
America in 26ft boats, and live on them full
time. In fact, it was they who inspired me to
investigate these amazing opportunities.
If you plan to live aboard your floating
flat, size does matter. With each additional foot of length, the volume becomes
exponentially bigger, much like an inflating
balloon. For instance, between 26ft and
30ft yachts, there is an 80% increase in
displacement, which can be roughly taken
as volume. Thats 20% more boat per foot!
Go big - its your home.
Hidden costs
The real deals are to be found in the US,
so add an air fare into the mix. Ensure that
the yacht has serviceable sails, structural
integrity and a working engine. The engine
alone could be worth the cost of the boat,
and a new set of sails can run at 4,000 USD
also. Many are sold ready to sail, but its
something to consider. It is important to
have a marine survey done of the vessel before you buy, which depending on the survey and size of boat, is likely to cost around
500 USD. Expensive if you dont end up

buying it, but a worthy investment that can
save you far more in the future, as well as
providing leverage in the negotiation.
Just imagine...
Does living aboard a yacht appeal to you?
It takes surprisingly little to support yourself, once free of rent, bills and city living.
According to a friend, who completed a
four year circumnavigation in the 90s, total
costs of living on the water amounted to
just 2,000 USD a year per person. Thats
including food, leisure, marina fees and
maintenance. While prices will have risen,
its a good indication of just how achievable such a lifestyle is. And if the wallet is
getting light, you can always drop anchor
for a month or two while working ashore,
where ever you may be. Yachting isnt just
for retired millionaires these days. I hope
this article will have you daydreaming of
the possibilities whilst stuck in traffic. Do
your research, take the plunge, and just sail
away...
Yacht listings:
www.yachtworld.com
www.sailboatlistings.com
www.craigslist.com
Learn the ropes by crewing for other
people:
www.crewbay.com
www.findacrew.com
Cal 28, just 1,900 USD
Your new home, rent free
Further information:
www.cruisersforum.com
www.noonsite.com
OUTDOORUAE
27
DMX
Review is kindly
sponsored and supported by
Dale Jullien
Age: 18
Student: The English College Dubai
Race Number: 11
Whats your mindset during a race?
Class: 250cc and 450cc
Im pretty sure everyone has a winning
So this is how you spend your Fridays?
I started when I was a kid and this has just
been how it is every Friday. I wake up early
in the morning and go racing. I love motocross. Ive been riding for about 12 years
and its definitely a family sport. My dad
has been real good, getting me bikes and
sponsorship. He used to ride but he got
into an accident, so he stopped and now
hes just focusing on me and my brother,
who also rides.
Are you worried about accidents as well?
Motocross has been in our blood for a
long time and just the passion for the sport
makes us want to ride all the time. All
my injuries are from motocross. I got this
one here in Jebel Ali; I just came over the
tabletop and just fell over. I broke my collar
bone and needed plates to put it back
together. Ive had worse.
How do you balance school and training?
Its tough because motocross takes up a lot
of time. I havent really had the chance to
go out riding during the week, so I ride on
weekends. Im doing my A Levels now and
its my last year of school. Its been hectic,
but I give it my best.
28
OUTDOORUAE
mentality whenever they ride, same for me,

my aim is to win. We have Ross here, whos
a bit quicker than everyone else so my I
just try and catch up to him.
Is there competition between the riders?
Theres a little bit of competition in the Kawasaki team. Me and Sean usually end up
battling every single moto, but we never
come off the race and fight about passes
and the moves we pull on each other. Its
always chilled out. Its part of racing so you
have to get used to it.
I look up to Sean, hes been riding for
ages and hes been part of the crowd for
a long time. Hes always been one of the
quickest guys and the most experienced. I
ask him stuff to make me a better rider.
I would like to thank Team Liberty
Kawasaki for their support and sponsorship.
Its great that there is a growing
community of young riders here.
Usually at the start of the season there are
loads of young riders, but towards the end
of the season people start leaving because
of bike issues. A lot of people like it and
theres usually a huge turn out every Jebel
Ali race. The young kids classes are getting bigger each year and I think the little
kids really look up to the older riders.

Is there more pressure being
so young and doing all this?
You have to be dedicated to the sport. If
you want to be good, you have to put in
the hours on the bike and on training. You
just cant come up every weekend on a
bike to race and expect to do good. You
put in the work and see what you get out
of it. There are some small sacrifices, just
like this weekend, it was my friends 18th
birthday and I had to leave early so I can
be well rested for the race.

What have you learned from this sport?
Its teaching me how to make smart line
choices and be aware of other riders on
the track. Its teaching me all about focus,
dedication, hard work and ethics. I think I
became more mature because of motocross.
Future plans?
I might give Baja a go. The Desert Challenge, in the near future, maybe.
Whats your advice to those
interested in doing motocross?
I just want to encourage the young ones
to at least try it. We get some riders who
dont have it in their family and theres
been times when kids just go oh yeah,
I want to motocross, and they became
really fast and eventually turn pro. Dont
expect to be the best after two or three
rides, its not as easy as it looks, but just
work hard and you will see results.
MX1
Position
19:50.372
11
Dale Jullen
11
20:40.575
50
Jinan CD
11
20:55.510
101
Antonio Vigoroso
10
20:17.677
The final race for the season saw some of the best local riders
ripping it out on the dirt for the big win. Gala prize giving will
be on May 8th at the Movenpick Jumeirah Beach.
11
MOTO 1
Total time
Ross Runnalls
2013-2014 race season
Laps
DMX Round 9 Results
No.
Competitor
33
Josh Brodalka
20:04.863
MOTO 2
85cc
Position
No.
Laps
Total time
Keving Valenti
14:34.073
22
Nick Kefford
14:55.104
174a Abdullah Al Nuaimi
Position No.
Competitor
15:21.499
MX2
Competitor
42
Samuel Porter
14:45.946
19
Eugenio Barbaglia
16:50.848
Laps
Total time
Ross Runnalls
12
21:46.605
Dale Jullien
12
22:04.846
Position
No.
Laps
Total time
23
Mohammed Jaffar
12
23:02.597
88
Alex Mortada
14:45.443
14
Mitch Malpass
12
23:14.161
11
Max Holmberg
17:01.040
174
Ahmed Al Nuaimi
17:24.657
27
Will Burke
16:55.451
85cc
Position
No.
Competitor
65cc
Laps
Total time
Competitor
MX2
Keving Valenti
14:31.351
19
Eugenio Barbaglia
14:47.210
Riolo Carmelo
14:50.903
Competitor
No.
Laps
Total time
Ross Runnalls
11
18:16.151
65cc
Position
Competitor
Dale Jullien
11
18:51.275
Position
No.
Laps
Total time
23
Mohammed Jaffar
11
19:39.484
88
Alex Mortada
14:31.942
14
Mitch Malpass
11
19:48.914
11
Max Holmberg
16:15.198
24
Abdullah Al Shatti
11
19:54.683
27
Will Burke
16:51.640
Masters
Position
Clubman Class
Position
No.
Competitor
Laps
Total time
28
Hamdan Al Tamimi
16:59.976
310
Jarno Elo
17:19.667
100
Adam Ridgway
17:50.377
411
Michael Anderson
18:55.619
Masters
No.
Competitor
Laps
Total time
13
Shannon O Connor
15:53.505
27
Corrado Meneghello
16:42.511
Sean Holder
16:44.342
310
Enrico Barbaglia
17:04.405
Paul Malpass
17:47.823
Laps
Total time
Clubman Class
Position
No.
Competitor
Laps
Total time
Position
No.
27
Corrado Meneghello
17:32.877
310
Jarno Elo
16:06.344
Sean Holder
17:35.603
28
Hamdan Al Tamimi
16:37.349
310
Enrico Barbaglia
17:50.042
411
Michael Anderson
17:05.356
Paul Malpass
18:29.128
51
Alex Malpass
17:30.380
Laps
Total time
Laps
Total time
125cc
Position
Competitor
125cc
No.
Competitor
Position
No.
Competitor
11
Erik Landgren
17:33.717
11
Erik Landgren
10
17:58.433
73
Darren Berry
17:42.900
73
Darren Berry
10
18:20.545
Dean Jullien
18:16.797
Dean Jullien
10
18:51.333
OUTDOORUAE
29
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Saudi Arabian Odyssey

Words By: Mike Nott
Photos By: David Chambers, Manuel Schmidt, Kim Merritt and Mike Nott
Part 3
Elephant rock
Im in danger of using too many of
the same superlatives in Part 3 but

youll just have to forgive me. The track
bed was still covered in the original
ballast and the indentations from the
sleepers and the rails looked remarkably fresh, as if theyd been lifted only
yesterday.
It was impossible to drive on, so we had
to drive alongside in the soft sand, which
presented its own challenges and we
stopped to deflate. The group indulged
me and I was allowed to lead along the
track bed and was thoroughly enjoying
myself as it traversed the desert. Perhaps at
this point it would be pertinent to explain
the railway.
The Hejaz Railway was built between
1900 and 1908 by the Ottomans, ostensibly as a means of transporting pilgrims
onwards from Damscus to Medina and the
intention was to carry on to Makkah, but
this extension was never built. However,
the less publically declared reason was that
it was a strategic military line into the heart
of this part of Arabia and was much used
for transporting troops and the equipment
of war. Small forts and/or large barracks

were built every 20km and three major
stations in Saudi at Tabuk, Madain Saleh
and Medina. The line became an obvious
target during the First World War and the
Arab Revolt, aided by TE Lawrence, and
was blown up and destroyed in parts. After
the war, the part of the line in Saudi was
abandoned though parts are still in use in
Jordan and Syria.
Our first stop was at a really well preserved line-side small station and water
tower. Unusually, as we were to later find,
it was not fenced in, so we explored and
photographed at will. We then needed to
find a campsite and tucked ourselves away
in some rock escarpments and walked up
to an ancient hilltop fort wed spotted. It
was here that Streakys ability to be a human metal detector was outed. He picked
up a couple of old Arabic rifle shell cases
that none of us had spotted. It was cold
that night, down to 6, and we were to
spend the following mornings waking on
the railway line dressed in coats and hats
and huddling round the fire. As the line
neared Tabuk it merged with the roads and

we transited Tabuk to try and link up with
it on the other side of the town. The line
headed directly into a military cantonment
and I was getting a little nervous about
leading four UAE registered cars with expat
drivers into this area but ploughed on anyway. The railway diverted from the cantonment road to where a huge new highway
was being built but which had not been
opened. Having seen such roads being
openly used in the UAE and having come
too far to be thwarted, we joined the new
road and drove several kilometres along it,
knowing the track bed was beneath us or,
at times, to one side or another. Eventually
we reached the end of the road construction and got back onto the track bed
proper.
The line had to cross eastwards through
Author and derailed train
Abandoned station
Manuels prop shaft
Crossing a viaduct
Underneath the arches
Medieval fort
Rock formations
a mountainous area to join a long and

wide wadi that led south to Madain Saleh.
We knew there was a tunnel along the
line and hoped that the road construction
hadnt destroyed it. Almost by accident, we
stumbled upon it after a false turn and had
a great time driving through it. From here
to about 40km outside Madain Saleh we
had an incident free drive. We marvelled at
the stunning and varied desert landscapes,
stopped and visited the abandoned stations, barracks and pristine viaducts, and
explored the ancient pilgrimage forts that
lay adjacent to the line. We stopped for
lunch on a grassy meadow in the shadow
Solo tomb
of some extraordinary sandstone outcrops,

which after further exploration, became
more and more remarkable. Tall, isolated
pillars of red sandstone that stretched for
miles into the distance. As we approached
Madain Saleh it became evident that a
worrying sound coming from Manuels front
axle was getting louder and more constant.
We stopped, raised a front wheel and
rotated it to try to isolate the sound. His
differential sounded like a bag of crisps; in
fact it was toast. He took off the front prop
shaft, we discussed the situation at length
and decided, wisely, to slowly cover the
short distance to the town of Al Ula, just
south of Madain Saleh and work out a plan.
As we approached, the landscape became
breathtaking. It was reminiscent of Wadi
Rum in Jordan; towering sandstone cliffs in
a sea of red sand dunes.
Of all the places that Manuel could have
chosen to break down this was by far
the best. Streaky had been here before
and after making a short stop at a very rudimentary garage to assess our needs and
make a plan, he got to work on the phone
to a friend in Riyadh and to the scrap yard
owner we had called on in Al Hair. We
then headed to the old town, visited the
renovated hill top fort, and viewed the
partially renovated and incredibly tight-knit
mud house old town. Here we were intercepted by another policeman, this time off
duty. It became clear he was on our side
and discouraged us from camping (some
Italian tourists had not fared so well in this
Tabuk Museum
area several years before) and suggested

we stayed in a local hotel. We booked in
and made plans to visit the World Heritage site that is Madain Saleh the next day.
Meanwhile Streakys friend was planning to
go to the scrap yard the next morning and
collect a front differential that the scrap
yard owner would extract from one of the
old Discoveries, which, after some judicial
research and confirmatory phone calls, we
believed would fit. This was then to be
couriered to us at the hotel, hopefully by
the next night. In the end, the differential
arrived the day after, but more of that later.
Most people are aware of Petra, the
ancient Nabataean capital in Jordan, and
the incredible tombs and civic buildings
they carved out of the solid sandstone
mountains. Well, Madain Saleh is the Nabataeans southern most city and they had,
similarly, carved out tombs and civic buildings from the local sandstone mountains.
It is also, as an added bonus, the best preserved railway station and museum on the
railway, hence its World Heritage status.
We had the unique privilege of touring the
entire area unescorted and unmolested.
We spent the whole day here, clambering
in, on and over the tombs and sandstone
hills and visiting the exceptional museum.
At the end of an extraordinary, and unlikely
to ever be repeated, day we returned to
the hotel to find that the differential would
soon be on its way but would arrive by
about 2pm the following afternoon. We
thus had a second spare day to fill and
there was more to see in the area (you see
what I mean about Manuels choice). The
next day we spent visiting the excellent
local museum, the Lions Tomb area, which
had been carved out of the sandstone cliffs
by a civilisation pre-dating the Nabataeans, going to Al Ula railway station and its
oddly, old, abandoned railway wagons on
the side of a residential road, and finally
went to Elephant Rock for a late lunch picnic in the shadow of this most picturesque
place. All the time we were waiting for the
phone call from the hotel to tell us the diff
had arrived.
OUTDOORUAE
31
Old carriage at Al Ula
The Tunnel
Eventually by 6pm we had the diff in our

hands and needed to fit it somewhere. We
found a friendly garage, in a petrol station
forecourt, who lent us two axle stands and
we set to work. This was obviously an
odd sight and we were bombarded with
questions and greetings by the local youths
and the numerous pre-teen children who
were doing their best to burn rubber at
the nearby roundabout in cars, which must
have been fitted with booster seats and
blocks on the pedals. We worked well as a
team and after four hours we had fitted the
new diff, re-fitted the prop shaft and were
good to go (Note, if any garage tells you
that this is a two-day, or even one-day job,
youre being diddled!). While we worked,
a local shop owner had brought us Arabic
coffee and sweets and even donated some
gifts; the local people were exceptionally
friendly. It now being after 10pm, it was too
late to leave so we headed out the next
morning but Kim had run out of time and
so headed home from here, straight to Abu
Dhabi, in one go, 2000km! Streaky, Manuel
and I headed southwards to rejoin the railway. As a guestimate, wed probably lost
two days from the trip and realised that we
were not going to get to the Yemen border
with what time we had left.
South of Al Ula the railway is paralleled
by and also built over by a new road for
about 40km but then bears off to the right
and into the deeper desert. All along the
line there are deposits of railway ballast
that were placed for maintaining the line.
These piles of ballast are perfectly flat and
square sided and we could only blame the
German engineers for insisting on such
precision for rock piles. Why they hadnt
been used since for road construction was
a bit of a puzzle.
As we moved on we had another ancient
pilgrimage fort to visit about 1.5km from
the line and turned off towards it. It was in
pretty good condition but fenced. As we
stopped to take photos we were joined by
a goat herder from out of nowhere who
insisted that we could not take photos of
32
OUTDOORUAE
Madain Saleh
this oft-photographed fort and he started

to take photos of us, so we took photos of
him. The next stop was a major one for me.
It was the railway sidings at Al Hadiya. We
arrived at dusk to find it well fenced and
the two trains, one of which was lying on its
side, and the station were well protected.
I felt a sense of disappointment but it was
now dusk and we had to find somewhere
to camp. Have I mentioned the landscape?
It was a classic desert-scape mixture of
black rock mountains and red sand dunes,
and was stunning. We camped in amongst
some firm dunes. We had something of a
mechanical scare in the morning. Manuels
fuel filter was leaking diesel and the car
wouldnt start. After a couple of satellite
phone calls to some diesel engine gurus,
a careful reading of the handbook and
some ad-hoc engineering, we got the car
going and it never failed again. We headed
back to the siding yard and discovered
a human-sized hole in the fence. As has
been said elsewhere, I can resist everything
except temptation. Manuel stood close
and I squeezed in to take the photos that
were to be the epitome of the trip for me.
Streaky joined us, having been photographing old sleepers used as fence-posts,
and squeezed in too. This had now overcome my disappointment at finding one
of the famous line-side locomotives earlier
in the trip having being cut to shreds by
opportunistic scrap metal hunters.
There was not much of the railway
Lion Tombs
left as we were nearing Medina but the

desert-scape continued to be increasingly
impressive; bigger sharper mountains,
semi-covered by huge yellow dunes. Its
a staggering area of natural beauty and
we wished that we could have spent more
time there to explore all its corners. We
finally reached the road into Medina,
turned off to camp for the night and
celebrated the completion of the Hejaz
Railway with some sparkling grape juice
(seriously). We now had to get home and
staged ourselves through Riyadh, staying with Streakys friends whod made the
trip possible by couriering the diff to us in
Madain Saleh and who were very generous
with their home-brew. A quick tour of the
sights of Riyadh, one final, chilly night in
the dunes south of Al Hotuf, a photo call
on the beach opposite the Qatar peninsula, a frankly surprisingly rapid transit
through Saudi and UAE immigration and
customs, and we were on the final stretch
and eventually home.
Clichs notwithstanding, this had truly
been the trip of my lifetime; the freedom to
explore, the length of stay, the sights and
landscapes were remarkable but it is unlikely that Ill be able to repeat it, and this
is the tragedy of Saudi. There is so much
to see, so much ancient history, so much
diverse and natural beauty but it remains
so difficult, if not impossible, to be a free
roaming tourist and traveller. Streaky, I owe
you a non non-alcoholic malt drink!
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Two feet, two wheels and a tuk tuk
Travelling in Cambodia
From Phnom Penh, its possible to take

Words By: Helen McClure
a boat to Siem Reap, the launching point
for the Angkor temples, the most visited
Since the Khmer Rouge has put
attraction in the country, but in the dry
down its weapons and the landmines
season this can be a very slow journey.
have largely been cleared, Cambodia
Your option on the road doesnt look much
has become a must-see destination.
better, with potholes and unpaved tracks.
However, wishing to see life in the countryRetaining a frontier feel about the place,
side, rather than city hop, this is the route
its cities are underdeveloped, trying deswe took. Those with a sensitive derrire
perately to cope with growing numbers of
should take a cushion its a bumpy ride
travellers hoping to see the country before
that lasts about six hours.
commercialism grows roots. Larger hotel
Although a tourist hotspot, Siem Reap
chains are starting to open their doors,
is a city of charm with art markets, wide
but its the boutique, independent hotels
boulevards and pavements to walk on.
that reflect the countrys charm. Often with
Angkor Wat is a few kilometres away, and
great service and a smile, these smaller
a trip at dawn is a must-see. You can go
hotels offer a sanctuary from the persistent
by tuk-tuk or taxi, but to get a real insight
tuk-tuk drivers and the deafening noise of
into this special location get on two wheels.
the street.
There are hundreds of temples dotted
They also make great bases from which to
around, and a bike is the perfect mode of
launch yourself into a journey of discovery
transport. When youve seen one temple
on foot, on two wheels, four wheels or by
you havent seen them all.
boat.
Built at different stages, with
Our adventures started
different themes, in different
in Phnom Penh. You can
locations, you can spend
easily get to grips with the
days peddling around the
capital with a visit to the
400km-squared site: from
Royal Palace, which is right
the iconic towers of Angkor
in the citys heart. There
Wat, to the many faces on
are manicured gardens to
Angkor Thom, to Ta Prohm,
wander around, temples to
the root-bound crumbling
reflect in and royal artifacts
temple featured in Tomb
to view. The golden roofs,
Raider movie.
intricate architecture and
Another advantage of
mosaic tiles all offer an illubooking with a cycling
sion of grandeur, however it
company is knowledge. The
is in stark opposition to one
temples are so complex and
of the most visited locations
Wheres the ladder on this thing? beguiling you need a guide
the Tuol Sleng Genocide
to help you make sense of it.
Museum (S-21 Prison).
Just to understand a little about the intricate
This converted school was used to house
carvings and the different types of temples
opponents of the Khmer Rouge regime
enriches your exploration. And its suitable
in the 1970s. Viewing old black and white
for all ages. From my four-year-old on a tag
photographs of the inmates, their cells and
along bike, and my seven-year-old on her
the weapons used on them, you begin to
own little bike, to my retired parents, the
feel aloof and detached as if you are lookroute and pace were tailored to suite the
ing at pictures from the Second World War.
whole group.
Then, with a sudden sickening realisation,
This was a special trip that will stay with
you remember that these crimes affected
me for a very long time. Cambodia, and its
people of our generation, and the scars are
struggles to modernise, move away from
still open and festering. The Killing Fields
corruption and develop, added to its atare still soaked in blood. A word of warning
tempts to retain its historic charm, now hold
this museum is not suitable for children.
a very dear place in my heart.
Cambodians are very aware of the issues
The practical bit: Phnom Penh
in their own country. And there are some
Where to stay:
startling statistics. According to Daughters
The Plantation Urban Resort and Spa, #28,
of Cambodia, which offers employment and
Street 184. A 70-room hotel in a perfectly
rehabilitation through handicraft boutiques
central location next to the Royal Palace
and cafs, one in 40 Cambodian girls is sold
and National Museum.
into the sex trade. 90% of these girls are
Where to shop:
sold by their own families. Organisations
Daughters Boutique Shop: changing the
such as Daughters is trying to break the
lives of victims of trafficking. #65EO, Street
cycle of rape, abuse and debt. And its one
178, www.daughtersofcambodia.org
uplifting story of many.
Get on your bike and ride
Where to eat:
Friends: a training restaurant for former
street youth, #215 , Street 13,
www.mithsamlanh.org
Foreign Correspondents Club: an intuition
in its own right, 363 Sisowath Quay,
www.fcchotels.com
Bubbles Tea & Ice-cream: a welcome rest
stop to gather your thoughts after a visit to
the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum
The practical bit: Siem Reap
Where to stay:
Shinta Mani Club and Resort: ask about the
hotels Foundation, set up to help make
unemployed Cambodians employable.
Junction of Oum Khun and 14th Street.
www.shintamani.com
Where to eat:
The Apsara Terrace, Raffles: outdoor
pan-Asian BBQ buffet with classical Khmer
dances. 1 Vithei Charles de Gaulle Khum
Svay Dang Kum
What to do:
Cycling: Grasshopper Adventures offers
a range of cycling tours from half, full and
multi-day trips for all ages and abilities.
www.grasshopperadventures.com. Try
the Angkor Sunrise Discovery to seeAngkor
Wat at its best.
Where to shop:
Artisans Angkor: Cambodia fine arts and
crafts. www.artisansdangkor.com
I Love Cambodia: Describes itself as giving jobs for women in ultra poor families
by creating handicrafts to fight against
poverty. #46, Taprum Road, Tropearng
Ses, Kokchork.
TRAVEL INFO
Abu Dhabi, UAE to Phnom Penh,

Cambodia via Etihad Airways
roundtrip fare is approximately
AED 2,900.
Helen McClure is the journalist behind
www.expatexplorers.org, a travel and
expat website offering free independent
insights, ideas and inspiration. Follow
her on www.facebook.com/expatexplorersand www.twitter.com/expatexplorers.
Her travelling experiences have included
backpacking in South America and the
Far East, touring Europe in a camper
van, working in villages in Africa, travelling with the British Army in Kenya,
Oman and Northern Ireland, working in
Saudi Arabia, living in Kuwait, Chicago
and the United Arab Emirates. She is
known for being sport mad (all sports),
running long distances (just mad) and
being competitive (in everything).
OUTDOORUAE
33
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Volunteering in Thailand
The Honey Badger

Episode 1: The plan
Planning the perfect trip

was a favourite topic of conversation between James and Mira
Raley, but it was several years
before the various strands wove
themselves together.
They had always shared an enthusiasm
for adventure and travel, which they had
found in the UAE through regular camping
expeditions to the desert and mountains
in the region, relishing the freshness and
openness of the outdoors. These trips
had required a serious off-road machine,
and after trying a few vehicles, they purchased and modified a Land Cruiser 76,
but more on that later. With their love of
the outdoors came a fascination with the
African continent. A destination which they

had considered for their honeymoon and
then finally decided to visit for a year of
travelling and following their dream. They
were also acutely aware that there were
many causes they wanted to support, so
many people, animals and environments
that needed the time and attention of
volunteers.
Having met, lived and worked in Dubai
for five years, the ache of steel and glass
could not compete with the attraction of
travel so the planning for their ideal trip
became ever more detailed until they
decided to take the leap. The plan is to
take their modified off-road vehicle, The
Honey Badger, on a monumental overland
trip across south-east Africa through 14
countries, starting in Mombasa and finishing in Cape Town.
Diaries
Most importantly, the route also encompasses a range of charities and causes that
James and Mira care deeply about, ranging from humanitarian projects to animal
and environmental conservation issues.
They will visit these charities as they travel,
providing their time and assistance however the charities require. Alongside this,
they have been diligently fundraising for
these specific causes, as well as over-arching African charitable organisations. After
much research, Mira and James chose four
projects varying from wildlife conservation
to community service.
The projects are:
Teaching and Community Project
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Antelope Park Hands-on Lion
Rehabilitation Project Zimbabwe
Chimpanzee Wildlife and
Orphan Care Project Zambia
Whale Shark and Manta Ray Conservation
Project Mozambique
As well as working on the projects, they are
raising 50,000 USD to support the selected
charity funds and non-profit organisations.
The charities are:
Honey Badger in Musandam
34
OUTDOORUAE
The Happy Africa Foundation (THAF)

The Happy Africa Foundation works to
implement long-term, positive change in
the lives of individuals, families and communities in Africa. Their commitment to
Educate, Enrich and Empower points
Africa Map Restrata
to three main areas of focus: education

and enrichment, health and nutrition, and
empowering families.
Starting from a small desk in Livingstone,
the charity has grown into an organisation
that has funded numerous initiatives and
programmes in the communities where African Impact volunteer projects are based.
The charity is proud to have financed the
building of clinics, crches and school
classrooms, provided communities with
education and skills training and helped
beneficiaries improve their well-being and
quality of life through improved nutrition
and the provision of much-needed health
equipment.
African Lion and Environmental
Research Trust (ALERT)
ALERT works to implement locally conceived and relevant solutions that create
sustainable motivation to conserve lions.
They conduct research to improve understanding of the lions behaviour in Africas
ecosystems to better inform decision
making.
The Marine Megafauna
Foundation (MMF)
Research, protect and conserve the large
populations of marine megafauna found
along the Mozambican coastline. Their
primary objective is to conduct cuttingedge scientific research that can be directly
applied to theconservation of the large
marine species in this region.
The first order of business was to
buy what is now known as The Honey
Badger, their beloved modified Land
Cruiser 76, which will serve as their home,
transport and sanctuary during the trip.
With support from Ramy 4x4, Limbada
and ARB, the couple spent over one year
preparing the vehicle. The list of modifications is endless, but here are a few of the
highlights:
State of the art GSM and satellite communications and tracking donated by
SecureLocate
ARB bumper and winch
Two spare tyres fitted to the rear bumper
LED bar and KC 8 spotlights
ARB roof tent

Two batteries, power management system and inverter
40L aluminium water tank with pump and
shower
Two fridges
Integrated drawers for storage
Roll cage
Two spare wheels mounted on the metal
bumper
Viper alarm system
Side-mounted kitchen table and awning
If you are interested in supporting them
in achieving their target and making a
difference to African communities and
wildlife, please spread the word or donate
using the following links.
Wedding day in June 2013
To donate:
www.gofundme.com/thehoneybadgerdiaries
If you would like to follow our journey
through Africa:
Website:
www.thehoneybadgerdiaries.com
Facebook page:
www.facebook.com/pages/Honey-Badger-Diaries/716885161656060?ref=hl
Instagram:
@thehoneybadgerdiaries
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Yemen behind the lens

Words + Photos By: Pavel Bafeel
I was always fascinated by

Yemens ancient history and
since I live in UAE, Ive decided
to use my chance and visit this
amazing country. Since my first
visit to Yemen, I tried to visit it
more often. This was my second
trip to this amazing destination
and Im sure it isnt the last. I
love the old Arabic feel of the
towns, the unexpected pure and
beautiful nature of this part of
world.
I travel a lot, especially to Oman,
where people are very helpful and
Typical Yemeni dress,

in front of Al Saleh
Mosque, Sanaa, Yemen
36
OUTDOORUAE
accommodating. In Yemen it was the

same, I was surprised by the hospitality,
food and traditions. I danced the Baraa
dance all night long with local people
from Manakah. I really enjoyed the national dish called Saltah, which is cooked
in the stone pot and its meat-based stew
with chili peppers, tomatoes, garlic and
herbs ground into a salsa.
I decided to stop being selfish and
share couple of my amazing Yemeni
adventures. Yemen is country with the
atmosphere of the old Arabia, hospitable
people and amazing cuisine. Dont be
afraid, its a Yemeni custom to wear the
traditional knife jambiya and outside
of the city to wear a gun. Please be
advised that in the northern and western
Yemen, its highly recommended to travel
through travel agency. The tour agency
Al Saleh Mosque, Sanaa, Yemen
Old Sanaa
will take care of visa, checkpoint passes,

transportation, security, accommodation,
food and beverages. Cost of the tour
is approximately 100 USD per day per
person. I highly recommend to hire wellestablished and trustful agency,
over the years I have very good
experience with Discover Yemen Tours
(www.discover-yemen-tours.com)
managed Mr Jameel, telephone +967
734990992. You can visit Yemen all year
long, but during the summer (from May
to September) its monsoon season.
Locksmiths shop in the

Old parts of Sanaa
Pavel with the Yemeni
Rock Palace
Zakati city water system, Yemen
Dance with the knives called baraa dance
Manakah highlands
Places to see in Yemen:

Old Sanaa
In the mid-1970s UNESCO declared
Sanaa one of the most endangered
cities in the world endangered by
re-development. In the 7th and 8th centuries the city became a major centre for
the propagation of Islam. This religious
and political heritage can be seen in
the 103 mosques. Old part of Sanaa is
magical with the narrow streets, unique
craftsman shops, distinctive architecture,
and where smells of incense and spices
mingle with the aroma of freshly ground
coffee. You need to see the old merchant
houses and visit Bab al Yemen, the best
preserved entrance to old Sanaa, and
Heritage House that will give you an
insight into the structure and functionality of an old town house. When youre in
Sanaa its good to stop at the new town
for amazing Yemeni dishes and to visit
the Al Saleh Mosque.
Northern part from Sanaa
You definitely need to stop in the wadi
near Sanaa called Wadi Dhar and then
go to Dar al-Hajar to see the Rock Palace
which used to be the imams summer

home. This is a popular spot for Yemeni
families, especially during weekends you
can see the wedding ceremony and the
knife dances. Afterwards you need to
visit Kaukaban region which is renowned
for its ancient villages with unique water
systems.
Manakah
Popular spot for the visitors is the most
impressive mountain village Al Hajjarah
near Manakah. The village dates from the
12th century. Its fortified houses made
with massive blocks of unmortared stone,
cluster to form an uninterrupted rampart.
Here you can easily spend days of trekking through ancient villages, terraces
of coffee and plantations. In the evening
almost in every village you are invited for
dinner and traditional knife dance.
Western coastal route
To see the pure Yemeni lifestyle, I recommend to take the route from Manakah all
the way to the west coast. You can stop
in Al Mukalla and see the biggest Yemeni
fish market and afterwards take the coast
Jibla mosque
Taiz
highway through several historic cities.

Visit Taiz, the biggest Yemeni city, and
see the city from the Taiz Cairo castle.
Because Taiz is known for cheap silver,
you can purchase historic Yemeni knives
or jambiyas. After Taiz, you can visit
the historic city of Queen Arwa called
Jibla.
TRAVEL INFO
Dubai, UAE to Sanaa, Yemen via FlyDubai roundtrip fare is approximately

AED 1,000.
OUTDOORUAE
37
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Climbing
the Arctic Circle

Words By: Rhys and Laura Jones
Our sights are now set firmly

on our big expedition which is
just a few weeks away. Our
training has stepped up a gear
and aside from being on first
name terms with the staff at
our local gym, weve also spent
a week training in the Alps. Gym
work can be great for some
conditioning, but I have always
said that theres no substitute
for the real thing, and in Greenland well be skiing every day for
two weeks.
Part 2
With this is mind, and to escape Dubai

before it started to really heat up, we
decided to squeeze in a week in Chamonix,
France.
Despite hoping for a cold wind on our
faces, we were surprised by unseasonably
warm weather, up to 15C! Luckily there
was plenty of snow and we landed slightly
red-eyed until the mountain air hit us and
we drove up the final zigzags before Mont
Blanc appeared in front
of our windscreen. The
mountains give me an
energy that I dont feel
anywhere else, and looking up at the iconic granite and icy peaks filled
me with enthusiasm and
reminded me why I love
the Alps so much. I could
feel my batteries being
recharged after a couple
of very busy months in
Dubai, and our first stop
was at the boot fitters
for some new ski touring
boots. Laura it appears is
prone to horrific blisters,
and the thought of a fortnight in plastic ski boots filled us both with
dread. They had to be perfect and there
are few better places in the world to get a
new pair fitted than Chamonix itself. She
spent hours, literally, trying different boots
until the best hard plastic shell was chosen.
Then it was another hour of cooking
them: baking the inners, moulding pads of
cushioning, shaping the toe box. Frankly, it
was a marathon effort and by the end of it
I was even more keen to actually get onto
the snow!
We were then blessed with six days of

perfect blue sky and variable snow conditions; again perfect training. The temperature variances meant that the skiing was
extremely fast and icy in the mornings, and
then as the day progressed it gradually
started to resemble wet sugar, certainly not
as consistent as Ski Dubai! Our extra-wide
lightweight touring skis were quite a handful compared to normal narrow piste skis,
and likewise the softer touring boots also
made it harder to drive the skis. The most
important thing for the trip itself though
will be comfort, as most of the time well
be skinning uphill, only briefly able to enjoy
the long runs back to base camps after
we climb each of the four mountains. Our
boots proved to be fit for purpose as we
skied on them for a solid six hours each day
in several different areas around Chamonix.
It was an excellent week and also helped
to build our confidence in new kit, which
is vital on a remote trip where therell
be no chance to change anything once
were there. If there are
problems with boots or
bindings, well just have
to live with them. Its a
very committing feeling.
Weve also learnt that
well be the only people
attempting to climb
all three of the highest peaks in the Arctic
this year. Our guide will
be Simon Yates, who
famously cut the rope in
the Touching the Void
book (and subsequent
film) by Joe Simpson.
Hopefully he will be
patient with us, and being such a small team, we
will have great flexibility over the technical
difficulty of the unclimbed peak which we
choose to climb.
Our final challenge before the trip itself
is proving to be a difficult one. We are still
looking for a sponsor to back the trip, and
part of the return will be the chance for
them to choose the name of the unclimbed
peak. Its a unique opportunity and we
would welcome a discussion with any
interested parties. For further details,
please email us at rhys@rjseven.com.
Live the life

Emirates Motor Company
(EMC), authorised MercedesBenz distributors in the emirate
of Abu Dhabi and the flagship
company of Al Fahim Group,
celebrates the success of its
latest sports utility vehicle (SUV)
range by reintroducing the
valued five-year service package
on the Mercedes-Benz 2014
unequalled flagship GL-Class and
the powerful M-Class.
is the 4x4 and larger form of the all-new

Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Individuals who
place particular importance on a sporty
and dynamic appearance will be delighted to know that the extensive AMG
Exterior Sports package is now available
for the first time, commented Mr. Kamal
Rafih, General Manager of EMC.
With output horsepower of 435, the
GL500 blasts from 0 to 100 km/h in just
5.4 seconds.
V8 engine Mercedes-Benz GL500

hitches top-selling 27-foot Emocean
Marine Voodoo sports boat.
Mercedes-Benz GL-Class interior.
The Unequalled 7-Seater GL-Class:

Built around the modern Arab family
Occupying top position among luxury
off-road vehicles, the Mercedes-Benz GLClass is built to cater to large families with
its seven seats, powerful performance,
spaciousness, refinement and cutting
edge technology. With its comprehensive assistance systems, the GL-Class has
a pioneering role where safety and comfort are concerned. Basically, the GL-Class
The Legendary G-Class:

An enduring off-road icon
The magnificent and powerful G-Class
continues to be the most impressive
AMG off-road classic with its unique
drive technology and distinctive design.
Known as the strong man in the AMG
model range, the AMG high-performance vehicle offers an outstanding mix
of more power and less fuel. In terms
of design, AMG customers can enjoy
a raft of future-oriented systems in the
Mercedes-Benz G-Class, such as spraycontrolled petrol direct injection, the
ECO start/stop function and generator
management.
Reaching 0 to 100 km/h in only 5.4
seconds, the new G-Class also has a new
top speed of 210 km/h.
The Powerful M-Class:

Performance meets sophistication
Confidently meeting performance with
sophistication, the daring new M-Class
comes with the dynamic AMG sports
styling as standard, unparalleled riding
comfort and high-quality elegant interiors.
The ML350 comes with a V6 engine and
reaches 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds,
while the ML500 is equipped with a V8 biturbo engine reaching the 100 km/h mark
in an impressive 5.7 seconds.
V6 engine Mercedes-Benz ML350

tows a heavy duty Actros MercedesBenz truck weighing 20,000 kg.
The Versatile GLK:

Comfortable in any situation
A leader in the compact SUV segment,
the new Mercedes-Benz GLK has trailblazing assistance systems, a new design, an
engine matching efficiency with agility
and details which are generally the reserve of higher classes of vehicles.
Delivering effortless superior performance and well-balanced drive comfort,
the lightweight GLK250 4MATIC petrolengine accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h
in 7.9 seconds and runs on 7G-TRONIC
PLUS automatic transmission, low-friction
axle drives, electric steering and tires with
low rolling resistance.
For more information, please call
02 656 7777 / 03 715 7474 or go online
www.emc.mercedes-benz.com.
OUTDOORUAE
39
YAMAHAS SAFETY ON WATER
Summer is just around the

corner and so is the water vehicles
season. Before we start dusting our
Waverunners and buying our water
sports accessories its always good
to refresh our minds of the water
vehicles safety tips.
On the right are few of the safety tips
that Waverunner riders should abide by
to enjoy the waters safely.
In the beginning of 2014, Yamaha
launched the new Super Vortex High Output (SVHO) engine in two new flagship
luxury performance models. In addition to
that the VX Series, which will now come
with Yamahas nanotechnology-engineered NanoXcel hulls and decks, which
shed 65 pounds compared to 2013 models. The new SVHO engine is a 1,812cc,
four-stroke, four-cylinder, supercharged
and intercooled Yamaha Marine engine.
All models featuring the SVHO engine
will also come with a new 160mm, eight-
vein jet pump for maximum thrust volume

and hook up.
Cooling efficiency has been increased
by 25%, the supercharger air intake is up
20% with a larger diametre supercharger
impeller, and Yamaha increased supercharger boost by 60%. Yamaha increased
oil cooling efficiency by 110% with an all
new oil cooling system, and the SVHO
engine features an advanced fuel injection system to increase fuel flow and
added high-performance forged pistons
to deliver peak power. Its the same 1.8L
block that Yamaha has been using for
a few years on the WaveRunners, but
everythings been revamped to be bigger,
better, faster, more efficient. Its already
the largest displacement engine in the
industry, but Yamaha has done a lot to it
to crank up the power.
The FZR and FZS have always been
known for their race-inspired performance, and they get a double-digit power
boost from the SVHO engine. The new
160mm, eight-vein pump, new sponsons,

new ride plate and new top loader intake
grate combine to keep them glued to the
water during high speed turns. This FX
Series is about stability. Its geared for getting the kids out and tubing and having
some running around when the kids are
ready for a break.
The Yamaha lineup in 2014 is all about
enjoying the waters; upping what was already the largest displacement engine in
the industry, and taking it to a whole new
level. And with nanotech engineered hulls
and decks on the VX models, entry level
buyers will have amazing experiences on
the water
If you would like to get more information about how to stay safe while enjoying
your Waverunner, visit any of Al Yousuf
Motors showrooms across the UAE and
our expert team will be more than happy
to help. You will also receive a safety
ridding poster with every purchase of a
Yamaha Waverunner.
Protective Clothing/Equipment
for Operators and Passengers
Wear PFD and protective clothing/equipment
You must wear an appropriate Personal
Floatation Device (PFD) at all times.
Wear a Wet-Suit (or Wet Suit Bottom) while
operating the PWC. Normal swimwear does not
adequately protect
Additional protective equipment (such as
Footwear, Eyewear, Gloves) may be needed.
Other Rules and Safety

Information
Eyewear
Personal Floatation
Device (PFD)
Gloves
Wet-Suit
(Wet Suit Bottom)
1. Follow rental agency rules

and boating laws
2. Know the waters
3. Follow the additional PWC
warning and instructions that
may apply
Do Not Release Throttle when Trying

to Steer
You need throttle to steer.
Take Early Action to Avoid Collisions
Remember, PWCs and other boats do not have brakes.
Avoid Aggressive Manoeuvres
Sharp turns or jumping wakes, or waves can

increase the risk of back/spinal injury (paralysis),
facial injuries, and broken legs, ankles or other bones.
Footwear
Operate at Safe Speed
Keep a safe distance away from people, objects

and other boats (including PWCs).
Do not follow directly behind PWCs or other boats.
Do not go near other spray or splash them with water.
Do Not Apply Throttle when Anyone is

at the Rear of the PWC
Know How to Right the PWC

in Open Water
If you capsize in open water, swim to the rear

of the PWC and turn it upright-be sure to turn it
in the proper direction. Then, board from the rear.
Scan Constantly for People, Objects

and Other Watercraft
Be alert for conditions that limit your visibility
or block your vision of others.
Keep Away from Intake Grate
Items such as long hair, loose clothing, or PFD

straps can become entangled in moving parts
resulting in severe injury or drowning.
OUTDOORUAE
41
LIFESTYLE
Habitually healthy
Pistachio
Crusted Salmon
with Greenheart
Organic Farms
Salad and Pesto
Method:
Words By: Chef Christopher Zerbe
Heres my recipe for

Pistachio Crusted Salmon that
packs a huge energy punch while
keeping you hydrated. Along with
plenty of water please!
Ingredients
Quantity Unit
Preparation
Mixed lettuces
50
Washed, torn
Beefsteak tomatoes 50
Cut into wedges
Tomato sauce
50
mL
Use your favourite!
Pesto
tbl
Super easy to make
Lemon wedges
ea
Fresh and organic

is always the best
Avocado (sliced)
1/4
ea
Toss with some lemon juice!
Pistachio nuts
40
Roughly chopped and mixed with the beaten

egg white
Egg whites
ea
Beaten to soft peak
Sea salt
pinch Preferably Maldon

but any will do
Olive oil
tbl
Black pepper
pinch Freshly ground
Salmon fillet
200
Cold pressed preferred

Wild caught can be found locally!
1. Prepare your favourite organic

lettuce and tomatoes (I love Greenheart
Organic Farms!)
2. Beat your egg whites to a soft peak and
fold into the chopped pistachio nuts and
reserve.
3. Season your salmon fillet with the sea
salt and pepper. Sear lightly on flesh side
then turn over.
4. After turning your salmon to the skin
side, cook for two minutes on medium
heat, remove from the pan.
5. Carefully place the chopped pistachio
mixture on top of your seared salmon and
place on a baking tray.
6. Place the salmon tray in a pre-heated
oven (160C) till thermometer reads
60-65C for a perfect medium! Or as the
French would say, demi-anglais!
7. While the salmon is cooking, heat up
your favourite tomato sauce and spoon
onto the plate. Take a minute to play
around with your presentation to impress
your guests!
8. Spoon some of your favourite pesto
into the middle of your tomato sauce
swipe.
9. Remove the salmon from the oven
when done and allow to rest for three
minutes while you plate your salad.
10. Finally, place the salmon on the plate
and your lemon wedge, sit and enjoy with
your friends! Just multiply the recipe for
more people.
The Cycle Bistro
GPS location:
Latitude:
N 25 02.792
Longitude:
E 055 14.384
04 425 6555
Phone:
PRODUCTS
A round-up of quality products available right here in the UAE
Hobie Pro Angler 12
13,995 AED
Available at Adventure HQ
The new lightweight, more compact, Pro Angler 12 is the most versatile
fishing boat Hobie has ever designed.
This 12-foot boat sports a 500-pound weight capacity and is packed full of
must have features that kayak anglers demand. Stand and fish with
incredible stability, securely store six rods (four horizontally, two vertically),
and access your tackle with ease.
Integrated dual-steering controls for left or right-handed accessibility while
under way. Vantage seating provides ultimate comfort and adjustability in a
lightweight, easily removable form, along with Boa system lumbar support
technology. The Lowrance Ready installation system makes adding a fishfinder a breeze. Powered by MirageDrive with Turbo Fins, the Mirage Pro
Angler 12 has got the giddy-up!
Length: 3.66m
Width: 0.91m
Fitted Hull Weight: 44.4kg
Fully Rigged Weight: 54.4kg
Capacity: 227kg
Hobie Outfitter
13,750 AED
Available at Adventure HQ
Smooth, stable and built for two, the Outfitter is designed around a
philosophy of utility, performance and ease-of-use. Onboard, little
features such as molded utility trays, built-in drink holders, dual helm
controls, or conveniently positioned rod holders make the Outfitter
a pleasure to use, regardless of the destination. Whether its a solo
after-work session or a long weekend of fishing around The Palm with
a friend, the Outfitter boasts a wide, stable hull platform, dual MirageDrives and ample stowage space to keep you well provisioned
and properly organised. Available in dune, olive, red and yellow.
Length: 3.86 m
Width: 0.86 m
Fitted Hull Weight: 39 kg
Fully Rigged Weight: 51 kg

Capacity: 193 kg
Endura Airshell Helmet

635 AED
Available at Adventure HQ Times Square

Lightweight Cycle Helmet
Super lightweight in-mould cycle helmet (220g based on size S/M)
Glass fibre / carbon fibre reinforcement bridges (depending on colour)
Certified to CE standard EN1078:2012
Reflective onrear
ClearThru air vents maximise air flow with minimal vent narrowing technology
Internal HeadStream air flow channels direct air through the helmet
One-hand micro-adjustment and three position vertical adjustment for inner head
Instafit strap system for improved hassle-free fit
Antibacterial, fast wicking, removable padding (spare set provided)
Covered by Enduras Crash Replacement Policy and Endura Product Guarantee
In sizes: S-M, M-L and L-XL
OUTDOORUAE
43
PRODUCTS
Endura Snype Helmet
525 AED
Available at Adventure HQ Times Square Center

Lightweight cycle helmet with visor
Super lightweight in-mould cycle helmet with removable visor (220g based on size S/M
excluding visor)
Certified to CE standard EN1078:2012
Extended rear-wrap design for extra protection of lower head
ClearThru air vents maximise airflow with minimal vent narrowing technology
Internal HeadStream airflow channels direct air through the helmet
One-hand micro-adjustment and three position vertical adjustment for personalised fit
Compact chin strap with twin strap dividers
Antibacterial, fast wicking, removable padding (spare set provided)
Covered by Enduras Crash Replacement Policy and Endura Product Guarantee
In sizes: S-M, M-L and L-XL
Point 65n Rum Runner Modular SUP

3,650 AED/QAR / OMR 390
3,995 AED/QAR / OMR 420
Available exclusively at GO Sport stores at Dubai Mall, Abu

Dhabi Mall and Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in the UAE; Villaggio Mall
and City Centre Doha in Qatar; and Muscat Grand Mall in Oman
The worlds first modular SUP is innovative, high performance
touring board. It is a fast, stable, straight tracking board on
which to explore and exercise. The manageable sections are
easy to carry and get back home in the back of your car. You can
store them under your bed, in a closet or on the balcony of your
condo. SUPs with displacement hulls are especially suitable for
touring as they are faster, have superior tracking capabilities and
handle most paddling conditions a lot better. Whether paddling
on flatwater, chop or in really wild conditions.
Yamaha Water Sports

Yamaha Plaid Wakeboard Red Remix
1,850 AED (original price 2,295 AED)
Available at Al Yousuf Motors
Shaped differently from edge to edge helping a rider compensate for the awkwardness edging,
jumping and landing on a tow side edge. Our subtle three-stage rocker provides a great pop off
the wake while remaining a smooth carver. Great board for riders getting into the sport or those
who are looking for advancement in their skills on the board. Includes Remix Bindings. Size: 140cm
and 135cm.
44
OUTDOORUAE
I
T R &E D
TESTED
ODUC
THIS PR
PROV
T IS AP
OUTDOO
ED BY
RUAE
Point 65n Tequila!

GTX Angler Solo
Words By: Kit Belen
Photos By: Daniel Birkhofer
Kayak fishing took off a few

years ago and since the launch
of the very first specific kayaks
there have been innovations
that have changed the shape of
fishing.
We now have pedal powered kayaks with
fins and propellers underneath them; so
innovative in fact that they have holes in the
middle of the hull to accommodate these
pedal systems, something the past generation could not even think about doing! We
also have motorised kayaks powered with
both electric and gasoline engines. Super
light hulls made of bulletproof materials,
every kayak imaginable for the type of
money you want to spend on one in fact, it
has become too much of a chore to choose
which one to buy.
We get too caught up with all the latest
technologies and forget that we simply
need one that works for the purpose we
need it to do, in this instance, a craft to use
for fishing.
Innovation + functionality = cost effective
One of the biggest challenges we face when
deciding which kayak to buy is storage. Fishing kayaks are fast and stable, this most likely means long and wide-bodies. The GTX
Angler Solo is a modular kayak: it breaks
into sections. This solves a lot of problems
with storage, especially for people who live
in apartments with no storage areas. Disassemble the kayak and put it in a corner and
forget about it until next weekend.
Transportation of the kayak could not be
easier, and cheaper. Unlike other kayaks
that require some sort of roof rack system
plus a carrying system, you just slide the
Rigging the whole kayak took less than three minutes
off of a kayak Im not familiar with. However,

those rod holders up front are strategically
located so you would be able to prop the
rod in it when you are landing a fish, rigging
your line or when you have to paddle out to
reposition.
Fishing close to the rocks proved that the
GTX had more than enough agility to get
me into position and cast towards my target. Once Ive drifted away, I put the rod in
the holder and paddle to reposition, which
surprisingly wasnt as much of a chore as I
thought t would be. Being short, the kayak
is very responsive. It turns much faster than
the Mini-X and way faster than my X-13. In
fact, if I was to summarise how it felt while
I was using it, it was sort of like a shorter
version of the X-13 and it was almost just
as fast.
Although storage up front is almost
non-existent, the molded well at the back
is more than enough for a small cooler for
drinks or a crate for storing your tackle, a
neat little kayak for short trips and exploration.
Where this kayak would shine
Given its attributes, I could say that this
kayak would be perfect for light tackle fishing near jetties near shore. However, this
kayak will shine its brightest when fishing the
mangroves. Launching in muddy banks is
no easy task, being a small and lightweight
kayak, launching would be less complicated.
Its maneuverability would be a huge advantage in tight spaces and its speed would
make easy work in covering some area and
getting into less pressured water.
GTX Angler Solo inside the trunk or the

backseat and off you go. Roof rack systems
cost quite a lot mine set me back a couple
of thousand for the crossbars and mounts,
plus another thousand for the kayak carrying
system, almost the cost of another kayak!
In the drink
Ill be really honest, ever since receiving word
that I would be reviewing a fishing kayak
over the weekend, I was already skeptical
going into this, having three fishing kayaks
of my own and have used quite a few over
the years. The three that I have are used
for specific purposes and have given me a
set of preferences that I wasnt easily giving
up on. Since this is a paddle kayak, I didnt
want to compare it with one of the pedal
powered ones; so, I chose to benchmark it
against my Malibu X-13, which in my opinion, one of the best sit-on-top fishing kayaks
in production today.
While I was unstrapping the X-13 from
the roof rack, the GTX Angler Solo was
already at the beach, ready for me to put it
together, which took about 10 seconds to
my surprise, and yes, the other kayak was
still on top of my car.
In situations where you need to unload
as fast as possible (like at the Black Palace
Beach) and when theres no one to help you
unload the kayak and its modular pieces are
an especially big advantage over one piece
kayaks.
Traditionally, the shorter the kayak, the
The kayak is available at GO Sport stores at
wider it would be (for stability) case in
Abu Dhabi Mall and Bawabat Al Sharq Mall
point, the Malibu Mini X, the GTX Angler
in the UAE, Villaggio Mall and City Centre
Solo however is just about as wide as the
Doha in Qatar and Muscat Grand Mall in
Malibu X-13.
Oman. Point 65n Tequila GTX Angler Solo
As it is a fishing kayak, the GTX has fouris priced at 3,700 AED/QAR or 390 OMR,
rod holders, two of which are the stand up
while the Point 65n Tequila GTX Angler Tanremovable types, similar to the Scotty Rod
dem costs 5,900 AED or QAR or 625 OMR.
holders; these are located in front of the
cockpit and two behind the seat.
To test this kayak out, I brought along a
A rodholder that perfectly holds a flyrod - somefly rod, normally, I would not really fly fish
thing a lot of kayaks dont have off the shelf
The modular design makes life easier for someone as
short as I am and unloading it took about 10 seconds
PRODUCTS
Fishing Kayak: RTM Abaco
5,800 AED
Available at SeaYou showroom in Al Quoz 2 (behind Times

Square); www.seayou.ae or call 04 420 6100
New in the RTM Angler line up, the Abaco is a labour of love,
designed by RTMs fishing guides and an aquatic engineer.
Light, fast and silent, the Abaco is a modern kayak, with
resolutely dynamic lines, inspired from the racing hulls of
sailboats. With its two recessed areas (front and rear), the
Abaco is perfect for long angler trips (one to two days). With
well-proportioned weight and dimensions, it is equipped
with well placed fittings. The Abaco suits both beginner and
experienced anglers.
Catamaran: RS CAT16 (RS Sailing)

46,800 AED
Available at SeaYou showroom in Al Quoz 2 (behind Times Square); www.

seayou.ae or call 04 420 6100
The RS CAT16 is the newest addition to the RS range. Easy to handle, exciting and highly durable (three-layer rotomoulded polyethylene construction system), the RS CAT16 is perfect for recreational sailing alone or with
family.
With significant technical developments in key structural aspects of the
boat, the RS CAT16 not only looks modern, it also incorporates important
practical benefits. The hulls and beams are secured without holes through
the skin of the boat so the boat can be assembled or taken apart in
around 15 minutes without need for sealant, using just one spanner. Bolts
securing the beams and shrouds secure into stainless steel bars located in
channels on either side of the hulls. Exceptionally strong, simple and fast
assembly.
Phantom 295 (Starboard windsurfing)

8,500 AED
Available at SeaYou showroom in Al Quoz 2 (behind Times Square);

www.seayou.ae or call 04 420 6100
The Phantom 295 is a complete windsurfing package that includes a
revolutionary racing board design and a complete rig. This windsurf
board covers the widest range of conditions and the widest range of
riders: young and old, small, medium or large. With its unique and innovative design, you may enjoy fast light wind and powerful, exciting
planning races. All this as an affordable price. Sails available in 6.5,
7.5 and 8.5.
46
OUTDOORUAE
SeaYou soon on the water!

UAEs climate is ideal all
year long to practise water sports,
with kilometres of coasts as well as
preserved nature to explore. Kayaks,
SUP, sailboats and windsurfs will let
you appreciate this magnificent nature
completely and ecologically.
SeaYou is a company specialising in
non-motorised water sports activities and
the distributor of leading water sports
brands as Starboard, RS Sailing, RTM,
Redwood Paddle and Severne.
Are you looking for some water sports
equipment with high quality and competitive prices?
SeaYou has a large range of products
from sailing catamarans, dinghies to
kayaks, Stand Up Paddleboards (and even
inflatable ones) or windsurfing equipment!
Choose the products you need and enjoy
the sea!
They also sell accessories and offer after
sales maintenance with spare parts to all
these equipment.
You just want to enjoy water
sports activities?
SeaYou has also a water sport center in
Sofitel, The Palm from where you can do:
- Guided kayak tours
- Lessons and tours in SUP
- Sailing lessons (catamaran, dinghies,
etc)
A must to try with them is SUP yoga
and SUP pilates. The classes take place
on the water on a Stand Up Paddleboard.
Innovative concept and available to all,
beginners are welcome! The activities are
led by Derya and Cristina, both certified
yoga and pilates teachers, accompanied
by an assistant lifeguard, you will spend
a great sporting and relaxed time, close
to nature. Its 125 AED per session, lesser

amounts for five or ten sessions, possible
to use the vouchers for both class and
SUP tour. A great workout where you connect with nature!
All activities are supervised by professionals. SeaYou Team is happy to
entertain you everyday from 8:30am to
6:00pm.
By going on a tour or buying a water
sport equipment, we hope to let you

discover Dubai from an entirely different
angle!
Email: info@seayou.ae
Website: www.seayou.ae
Tel: 04 4206100
Visit their showroom in Al Quoz 2
(behind Times Square)
SeaYou soon!
OUTDOORUAE
47
I
T R &E D
TESTED
ODUC
THIS PR
PROV
T IS AP
OUTDOO
ED BY
RUAE
The lugs act as a shock

absorber and return
energy to the runner
The Newton Running

Motion III review
Words By: Edward Hawkins, TRIWings Coach
Ed running with a smile on his face

again, thanks to the new 5-lug Motion
Recently, I was asked if I

wanted to try the new and improved 5-Lug Motion shoes by
Newton Running. I was told they
are different: they have been
updated, you will love them;
Hello Better is Newtons slogan; lug it out, go on. Okay,
I replied, not too sure. And lug
what out exactly? I thought.
You see, as a runner (and a triathlete),
I am a funny beast and runners are creatures of habit; we like routine and we do
not like curve balls being thrown at us.
However, running shoe companies tend
to throw these at us every so often. They
either change the structure of a shoe or
Feels more responsive with

better ground communication
Designed to accommodate
the splay of all five metatarsals
delete it from their range entirely. This is

a major concern for most runners as the
biggest change a runner can make to
their kit is their trainers. I have known runners purchase five or six pairs of the same
model on a rumour that the company
was discontinuing it. While this could be
considered a little extreme, it is understandable since it can take years to find a
trainer that works for them.
I have been using Newton Running
shoes since November 2008. I still remember the first time I wore them. It was
in Florida at the Ironman Triathlon 70.3
World Championships. I had read much
about natural running. How it can make
you run faster, longer with less fatigue and
most importantly with less injuries. Which
in turn means more training time.
They do this by using lugs on the sole
that aid you to run more naturally. The
lugs compress over a plate that flexes and
in turn the energy used when planting the
foot during the stride is returned to help
lift your foot off the ground rather than it
becoming lost into the EVA foam midsole, as it does with conventional running
shoes. I bought some at the Expo, but
waited until after the event to try them, as
I never try anything new on race day.
During my first run, quite simply, I was
blown away. They felt so natural and so
easy to run in. After each session my feet
and legs were not as beat up like they
had been in my old running shoes. I did
take a couple of weeks to get used to the
shoes and change in running style, but on

the whole the experience was well worth
it and within a month I was running faster
and more efficiently.
At the beginning of this spring/summer
season, Newton had redesigned their
two main shoe lines, the Mileage trainers called Gravity (neutral) and Motion
(stability), and their Speed trainers called
Distance (neutral) and Distance S (stability)
for both females and males. I personally
use the Motion for everyday sessions
and the Distance S for faster tempo work
and racing over the half or full Ironman
distance.
This revamp was from the ground up
and with it the four lugs were redesigned
to incorporate an extra one. Five of them
now sit proudly under the ball of your
foot, offering a POP 1 (Point of Power)
sensation. This means that they return the
greatest amount of energy to the runner,
putting the most pep in your step when
compared to POP 2 or 3 models, like the
Sir/Lady Isaacs and Energy NR respectively. With even more energy being
returned to the athlete, there is less energy wastage and this translates to faster
performances and less fatigue. Each of
the newer lugs also covers a slightly larger
surface area than before and they are
placed a little differently than in previously
shoes. In true common sense style, the
clever Newton designers now have the
lugs sitting directly in line with each of
the metatarsals in the foot, which makes
complete sense to me.
The upside of this extra lug is that
when running I felt an increased level
of support for my feet and in turn I had
a greater confidence in the shoe doing
its job. Having the extra lug also means
that the toe box is wider, so I found the
shoes a little less narrow than I did before.
The new lugs now have a tread to them,
meaning a much better grip on surfaces
that have been sprayed for example. Interestingly too, the lugs are also not quite
as protruding as they used to be. Good
news for a Newton newbie, as Ive chuckled quietly to myself at many a new Newton wearer as they innocently trip over
what appears to be nothing or should I
say their new trainers. Good for them, but
not so for those having a cheeky laugh at
someone elses expense.
The Speed Trainers in the new range
now have an additional reinforced heel
strike pad, something the Mileage
Motion (Stability), Mileage Trainer

750 AED
Trainers have always had. I understand

heel striking is not what we are meant to
be doing, but as we become more fatigued we do resort back to old ways and
it does stop the trainers from becoming
worn out prematurely in this area. In the
stability models that I was testing, the Motion and Distance S, there is an EMB (Extended Medial Bridge). This is designed
to support runners who over pronate (or
have semi collapsed arches or are flat
footed). I found this helpful especially on
my longer runs as the muscles in my feet
became fatigued towards the end.
The 2014 models are also more
cushioned, in fact plusher. I find myself
wanting to run in them more than I did
in previous models. It feels like I have
rediscovered the shoe that changed my
running so radically back in 2008. While I
understand that some people prefer less
cushioning than on offer in the Motion, I
found them perfect.
My only grumble is about the material used on the uppers. To me it does
not feel as well constructed as previous
models. I know they will last, but it is just
the feel of the fabrics used. They felt a little cheaper than they used to be. Having
said that, they can now be worn sockless,
because of the fewer seams used on the
inside that could rub and give those nasty
blisters we all hate. This is what we want,
especially for triathlons.
Even though the redesign results in an
evolved running shoe, they importantly all
retained the natural foot placement in the
shoe. This means that they all still have a
heel-to-toe drop of 3mm in the Mileage
Trainers and 2mm in Speed Trainers. This
is of course the best news in the update,
that there is no change to this aspect.
So what do I think of these new Newtons? I like them; in fact I like them a lot.
They do their job very well and they do
it effectively. How do I know they work?
I know this, because I am finding myself
running with a smile on my face again.
Distance S, Speed Trainer

650 AED
They are great shoes and I am sure they

will welcome many new runners to the
brand of Newton Running, as they seem
far easier and faster to adapt when compared to previous years models.
When I was asked as to whether I
wanted to give the new Newton a run for
their money I hesitated. I need not have
and I need not have worried about this
years update to the shoes with their extra
lug. I like them and I am going to buck
the trend of so many runners by embracing the new updates with open arms
whilst saying Hello Better to my new
5-lug Newtons.
Newton Running shoes are available
in the UAE from Adventure HQ (Times
Square, JBR and Dalma Mall) and Intersport (Times Square and Dubai Festival
City) as well as in Bahrain from Endura
Sport Center. Prices range from 575-750
AED, but the Motion costs 750 AED and
the Distance S 650 AED.
Engineered to be faster and more efficient, with greater POP sensation
The shoes are broader, providing

a more stable platform
OUTDOORUAE
49
OUR EXPERTS
venturiek y
Ch c
Ad
Sk
touching the Ingeli
Photos By: Anthony Grote
Tori
runner, writer, blogger &

adventurer
PS. My email address is
tori@fitchicksandfastwomen.
com for thoughts, ideas, and
suggestions or just to
say hello!
April saw an influx

of Dubais sports lovers
to South Africa, for the
most part for Ironman
South Africa, which by
all accounts, seems to
have brought some epic
results and a few qualifiers for the world champs
in Kona.
A big congrats to all involved!
There was also Cape Towns Two
Oceans race over Easter Weekend,
which always has a good representation from Dubai. And then a lesser known event, which Adventure
Chick took part in the inaugural
Ingeli Skymarathon, a 42km trail
run with 2,100m vertical ascent.
Not terribly well known, the Ingeli
mountain range, sitting in the heart
of southern KwaZulu-Natal, proved
to be one of the most spectacular
routes Ive run in a long time.
The night before
We arrived at the host venue for
the race, the Ingeli Forest Lodge,
late afternoon. Registration and the
race briefing followed which made
for a packed room full of bracing
anticipation, nervous excitement
and animated chatter.
I laughed when the race director told us that his stated race
distances rarely correlate with the

actual I suppose this just throws
into the mix some added adventure!
He then went through the usual
briefing stuff but to be honest, I dont
rate myself terribly highly at listening
to instructions, never mind following
them. Instead, I found myself looking
around the room, sizing up my fellow
participants feeling like everyone
looked stronger, leaner, fitter and
faster than me. And I wondered
whether were all sometimes guilty
of this. Its silly really. We sign up to
these events to run our own race and
our performance comes entirely from
within. Add to this the fact, that at
any one time, every participant is at a
different stage of their game virgin
trail runner, weekend warrior or seasoned pro running to train for their
A race or this is their A race, fresh out
of injury or at their peak theres no
end of variables.
I also thought about how funny
it is, regardless of the race or our
experience, how we all find ourselves
the night prior, discussing incessantly,
what were wearing, what were taking, what were going to eat, drink,
think as if every single one of us
were a newbie to these races. I know
its great to share thoughts and ideas,
but still, only we know ourselves what
we can stomach to eat, only we know
how hot we get or how we feel the
cold. And one mans mound is another mans mountain. At least here,
were all talking the same language.
Im sure as the globetrotting expats
many of us are, that Im not alone in

having sometimes found myself in
some pretty remote countries before
having the same pre-race conversations around a table with a multitude
of languages. For the record, you
normally end up more confused at
the end of the conversation than you
did at the start!
The day of reckoning
Breakfast at the lodge held the same
excitement and chatter as the night
before, as we filled our bellies to
power us through the race. It was
still dark outside but by the time we
started the race at 0600, daylight was
creeping in.
The first few kilometres were
through the most enchanted forest
on pretty technical trails. The shading
from the towering trees left little to
be seen below so you had to remain
vigilant every moment to avoid falling
on rocks and roots. You could see the
sun start to filter through the trees
and it looked truly stunning. When
eventually we left the forest and
came to wide-open hillside fields, it
was like a shaded oyster had opened
to reveal the perfect pearl.
From there, we had some pretty
steep climbs at times feeling long
and quite relentless but with the
sun shining and the skies a brilliant
blue, it was difficult not to actually enjoy and embrace every lungbursting moment (easy to say that in
hindsight!)
The route had a mix of purpose
cut paths and rough terrain, you
know the sort of trail that has
been designed specifically to torture
your ankles. Up and down we went,
running, walking, fast packing On
reaching the highest point at 2,130m,
the temperature dropped and the
mist fell but you felt on top of the
world with views as far as the eye can
see and the sort of wind in your hair
that makes you feel so free and alive.
I imagined myself floating along like
Maria from The Sound of Music running in the meadows however, I can
safely state that what I looked like was far

from this rather a pair of tired legs plodding along without style or grace!
On the way up, I stopped a few times
(not only to catch my breath!) but to
marvel at the 360-degree beauty. It struck
me that too often, when climbing up a
mountain, we focus only on the next step
without looking behind and absorbing
how far weve come. And how perfectly
this translates into our lives we can get
so blinkered, striving constantly towards
our goals without enough thought into the
journey weve taken before and how much
weve achieved already. Note to self. And
note to readers.
Dropping back down the mountain was,
for me, the toughest part of the course. It
was steep with a wicked camber, giant tufts
of grass to continue the ankle torturing and
some slippery sections, just to throw in the
odd muddy slide. On terrain like this, you
cant help but question whether these races
would be better named trail-less races.
The final 20km was far easier a pretty
leisurely amble through some stunning for-
est on undulating trails. I was singing along

to Frank Sinatra on my iPod and feeling all
is right in the world. The forests just seemed
to go on forever, with their endless switchbacks revealing more and more simple,
rugged beauty. Nature at its best!
My final thought on finishing the race was
the 100% total lack of rubbish I saw on the
route. Not one single GU wrapper this, I
think, was a first in my history of races. And
so it was pretty in keeping with our love for
enjoying and taking care of the outdoors
that every finisher was given a gorgeous
little Fever Tree to plant at home.
The rest of the afternoon was spent
basking in the sunshine on the lush lawns
in front of the lodge. Eating, drinking, chatting, laughing followed by a prize giving,
slide show, dinner and bar. Every single race
finisher was called up to collect a certificate.
The day after
The course, as I think Ive stressed enough,
was wonderful; just total raw picture-perfect
beauty. But beyond that, the race organisation, the briefing, the route markings and
the aid stations were all faultless. As for the

Ingeli Forest Lodge, where we called home
for the weekend, the team was fantastic
and so accommodating. Meals were magic
and the bar, the perfect spot to re-hydrate
post race with a roaring fire and a giant
screen to keep the boys happy.
As we packed the car and left these
beautiful mountains behind us, I found
myself with a secret smile. You see whilst
some love to sign up for the big and bold
races, the iconic events which attract hosts
of international participants, I fall into the
other camp. I love to immerse myself into
the local scene, discover the lesser-known
events then do my bit to give them the
shout-out they deserve. Ingeli Skymarathon
is, without doubt, deserving of this. And so
I recommend you check this race out just in
case you fall into the same camp as me.
Love, Tori x
My enormous thanks to Andew Booth
at KZN Trail Running for putting on
such a phenomenal event. And to Ingeli Forest Lodge for sharing with us,
your fantastic hotel and its spectacular
trails. You may have once been a wellguarded secret, but I doubt that will
remain.
www.kzntrailrunning.co.za
www.ingelitrail.co.za
www.ingeliforestlodge.com
photo: Stephen Whitesell
Introducing the
2014/15 NAISH KITE COLLECTION
RIDE
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OUR EXPERTS
Tour Morocco
Words + Photos By: John Basson
About six months ago Oliver told

me about an off-road trip in Morocco,
that he and Gee had booked from
22th to 28th of March 2014. Obviously interested in the topic, it did
not take long before it was Oliver, Gee
and myself that were booked for this
seven-night, six-day ride in the majestic Southern Morocco.
Needless to say it was a long and slow
six months waiting for our adventure to
start. Fortunately it was during winter and
we managed to do our regular weekend
rides here in the UAE. This helped to pass
the time and also ensured that there was
no rush to obtain the required paper work
(South Africans need pre-booked visas to
enter Morocco).
The tour was with Easy Raider Tours and
managed by a Frenchman, William Richter.
He owns 15 KTMs and brings them from
France to Morocco for the three-month
spring. He is fully booked for this period
and the popularity of his tours has caused
his business to grow from only six bikes
in 2006 to a total of 15 by 2014. He does
however not take more than ten riders
per tour as the numbers become difficult
to manage. Azis is a young and energetic
Moroccan that works for him as a support
vehicle driver and mechanic. Azis also
inspects and helps William every night to
ensure all bikes are in perfect condition.
I was totally exhausted after the tedious
and almost nine-hour flight from Dubai to
Casablanca (the capital). Then a four-hour
stopover followed by the connecting flight
to Marrakech. As all the correspondence
was in French, I thought that the tour actually started and finished in Marrakech. This
however was not the case and by noon the
following day (22nd March) eight of the
10 riders had arrived in Marrakech and we
52
OUTDOORUAE
departed by bus to Ouarzazate. A short

stop at Marrakech airport to collect the
remaining two riders who arrived late,
and off we went.
The road to Ouarzazate is only 190km
and there was no way possible that any
person could have remotely prepared me
for this four and a half hour bus ride! I think
after seven years of living here in the UAE
I have forgotten what normal roads look
like in other countries. More than 100km
of this road is a mountain pass that snakes
its way across the Haut Atlas Mountains.
Initially just seeing these incredibly beautifully snowcapped mountains was amazing!
This time of the year Morocco is very green
and the picturesque green valleys really
made me miss South Africa. Some places
almost a carbon copy. Then as the altitude
increased, this narrow winding road with
limited or no barriers became less and less
appealing to me. The water erosion, at
places, had already reached the tar and I
remember one turn where the barrier had
been totally destroyed and driven over by
large trucks due to their size and the intensity of the hair-bend turn. Apart from no
barrier the tracks of these trucks show that
at least one of the rear wheels must have
been suspended for about half a metre
as the tracks cross the erosion ruts. Nerve
wrecked and thankful to be alive I thanked
and gave the driver a well deserved tip
by the time we reached the hotel in Ouarzazate.
That night it was the big safety briefing
and William explained the dos and the
donts of the trip. This was also where all
riders had to give a 1,200 EUR deposit for
possible breakages on the bikes. After the
formalities it was off to an early night for
me to try and get some good rest before
the first days riding started.
Day 1: 190km from Ouarzazate
toBoumalne du Dades
As the majority of day ones route was in
the mountains the total distance was only
190km for the day. The last time I was in

mountains, and on gravel roads, was about
two years ago in the mountains near Dibba.
The mountains in Morocco are certainly on
a different scale and one had to keep the
speed down. Those who have ridden dirt
tracks in mountains will know that if the
bike starts to skid, it does not stop. At least
half the riders, including myself had some
close calls! The way William does the tour
is by daily selecting a new rider to be in the
back and act as a sweeper. This sweeper
then gets a two-way radio and William
rides with his radio permanently connected
via headset. Should any rider encounter a
problem the sweeper will call William who
would then attend to the situation. This
works great and allows William to continue
riding without continuously stopping to
ensure all are present.
The first call from the sweeper was hardly
5km into the ride as we got our first of
thirteen punctures for the tour! Watching
William change the tube by himself was
almost like reading poetry. I have changed
several tubes and also fixed punctures on
rides, but nothing compares to this. Surely
he has done this a bit more than the average rider.
Apart from the odd scare and some
riders that dropped their bikes, day one
ended in the small town of Boumalne du
Dades and words cannot describe seeing
the sun set on those mountains!
Day 2: 310km from Boumalne
du Dades to Merzouga
Early start after a good breakfast as we had
a hefty 310km to ride and William did not
want to waste too much time. I was initially
a bit frustrated with speed and was hoping
for a bit more adrenaline. About midway
through the morning one of the riders
kept overtaking William at speed and then
waited for the group. This, William told
us, in no uncertain terms was not allowed.
He was responsible for our safety and no
one was allowed to overtake him. William
explained (again) that he has to cater for

all 10 riders and if speed was why we came
to Morocco we should have entered the
annual Morocco Rally.
It was after this that I realised William
was right. This was a tour, not a race! From
that moment on, the riding became truly
enjoyable and for the first time in many
years I was actually sightseeing, rather
than concentrating to stay on the bike, and
believe me, there is a lot of beauty too see
in this country!
My whole mood was different as my
mindset had changed from speed to nature
(if that makes any sense) and the day
ended at a fort like hotel near the town of
Merzouga. (William has selected all the accommodation to give the riders a spread of
true Moroccan adventure and every night
was a pleasant surprise!)
Day 3: 260km from
Merzouga to Zagora
Welcome to the Sahara! A very big tick
was made on my bucket list as the day
started with us riding into the Northern
Sahara desert! Of course Oliver and I were
right at home in the sand and were both
looking forward to display our skills. I had
forgotten how difficult it was for guys who
had never ridden in sand and our progress
was very slow as many riders struggled and
fell in the sand. Luckily the dune section
was short and within about an hour and a
half we were out in the open.
By mid morning we reached a type of
oasis where William bought fuel for the
bikes from the local fuel man. This guy
was selling the fuel in plastic water bottles,
at a profit of course, as there were no other
facilities for many miles to come. It was also
at this point that William briefed us on the
section to follow and reminded the riders
about falling on sand if you are fast. His
words were: On gravel you will slide, but
if you fall here, and on your shoulders, you
dont slide and you break your collarbone.
The call from Oliver, who was the selected sweeper for the day because of his
ability to ride in the sand, came less than 15
minutes after leaving from the fuel stop!
Patrick had a bad fall and we think he
might have broken his collarbone, was the
radio message to William.
This was not a good place for an accident as there was no mobile coverage. We
were four riders that stopped with William
and the rest were an unknown distance
behind us. William had to continue about
30km to a high point from where he called
the support vehicle to come and look for
us. After returning from the call we all went
back to join the others. It was pretty obvious from the pain Patrick was in that it was
99% certain his collarbone was broken. William and Patric Bolagno (a paramedic by
profession) attended to Patrick Arrighiby
securing his left arm in a bandage. Then
due to the amount of time already lost
we decided to leave both Patrick and his
son-in-law (Ainice Syoud) there whilst we
continue to the planned lunch stop.
It was getting hot and we had more than

150km remaining for the day. Then, just to
add to the drama, Gees bike had a flat rear
tyre. Again William fixed this in minutes,
and the remainder of the riders were off to
the restaurant in the middle of nowhere
for lunch. There we waited till we had confirmation that the recovery team was with
the injured rider.
Apart from almost an hour driving after
sunset due to the events, we all safely
reached Zagora. It was confirmed at the
local hospital that Patrick had a broken
collarbone. Obviously that was the end of
his riding, but he did however opt to ride
with the recovery vehicle and this way still
enjoyed the rest of the tour.
Day 4: 210km from Zagora
to Erg Chegaga
By now some riders had blisters on their
hands from riding seven to 10 hours every
day, but the mood was positive and the
beauty of the surroundings easily makes
one forget these little things.
The route took us through a massive
meteor crater (cannot find or remember its
name) and also a beautiful lush green natural oasis near the Algerian border. It was an
easy ride and my camera worked overtime
during the ride.
Our accommodation for the night was
in a desert camp where the colourful Arabstyle tents and carpet covered sand made
for a true desert experience. We spent the
night around the campfire relaxing and reliving the adventure till late into the night.
Day 5: 220km from Erg
Chegaga to Foum Zguid
During the early hours of the morning the
howling of the wind woke me. I knew that
if this was how the wind was blowing by
3:00am it was not going to go away before
we ride and that surely we were in for some
sandy conditions! The first section was very
poor visibility and William requested us to
stay close to each other and not go out of
his tracks. It would be almost impossible to
find someone if he went off the track as we
had maybe 50 to 70m of visibility. Also due
to the strong wind and shifting sand, the
bikes tracks would be erased in minutes!
After about an hour into the ride conditions cleared and apart from one guy that
had an impressive tumble, and at least two
more punctures, the rest of the day was
easy going and good riding.
Day 6: 210km from Foum

Zguid back to Ouarzazate
Almost a sad day to wake up to as we all
knew that it was the last day of this amazing
adventure. Nevertheless, the mood was still
very positive and we knew we had to do an
early start as it was going to be a very long
day. Once we reached Ouarzazate we still
had to shower, re-pack our gear and return
by bus, via the awful winding pass, back to
Marrakech.
The riding on the last day, apart from
our 13th puncture was without incident.
To me the highlight of the day was surely
the snow in the mountain pass on route
back to Ouarzazate. To many, this might
sound surprising, but at the youthful age of
42, I have never seen snow from up close.
It took about 20 minutes and the once
green mountains were totally covered in a
white blanket of snow. Then of course the
thought of the bus now having to drive this
horrifically scary pass in the snow spoilt
my mood totally.This was an unforgettable
riding experience and something I hope I
can repeat one day with my sons.
Final confession
Those who know me also know my opinion
of KTM motorcycles. I have not been shy in
expressing my subjective negative opinion, and up until this tour honestly believed
that these bikes might perform well, but
seriously lack reliability. Well the following
facts cannot be argued and now KTM ranks
number two, after Honda of course.
William has fifteen KTMs. Six of these
are 2006 models of which all six now
have more than 35,000km. The EXC 400
William was riding had done a staggering
50,000km by the time we finished the tour.
He showed me all the detailed records he
has of his bikes. The bikes get new rings
(not piston and rings, just new rings) every
10 to 12,000km. Then at between 30 to
35,000km he does a top-end rebuilt and
just in case also replaces the timing chain.
These are unheard of figures on off-road
bikes and to date William has not had any
failure other than accident damage on any
of his fifteen bikes. Of the eleven we were
using they all started every morning first
time and even a rebel like myself cannot
argue these statistics.
Ride safe and go for gold,
John Basson
OUTDOORUAE
53
PEOPLE
Alexey Molchanov
Occupation: Professional freediver
Nationality: Russian
Age: 27
This freediving champ
has won first and second place twice

in the previous Fazza Championships,
and this year was his sixth time participating. Freediving is a form of diving
where divers swim great depths in a
single breath. The Fazza Championship for Freediving is modelled on the
traditional technique of pearl diving in
the region that required pearl divers to
be able to hold their breath for several
minutes as they looked for pearls. This
year, Alexey clocked 7.09 minutes.
How did you get into freediving?
I have been swimming and diving since
as long as I can remember. A lot of
young people in Russia enjoy diving
for recreation and there is no shortage
of places where one can dive. I have
fond memories of diving with family
and friends in the Black Sea. I enjoy the
physical and mental stamina that the

sport demands. I took to professional
diving at the age of 17.
Diving into the deep unknown
is a daunting experience for many,
but what is the appeal
of this sport for you?
I suppose I enjoy swimming and diving.
When you grow up with it around you,
you have no choice but to fall in love
with it. My mother Natalia Molchanova is
a world champion freediver as well with
40 records in freediving, and she has
passed on her passion for the sport. For
me, freediving is a leisure pursuit rather
than a serious activity. I enjoy the physical and mental challenge of the sport.
Whats your training like?
It is important to be physically fit and I
make sure I exercise and train at the gym
for a few hours. A couple of pool training
sessions and then some dry training in
the gym with some stretching sessions.
Additionally, I practice my breath holding
technique. My strength is depth diving.
What is the best and toughest
part about this sport?
This sport is very liberating. The toughest
part is being able to relax in the static
apnea event. The Fazza Championship
for Freediving is, in my opinion, the
most difficult international competition
for freediving because it is based on the
traditional form of diving.
Whats your gameplan
during a competition?
My strategy is to train and perform to the
best of my abilities and to push the limits
of my physical endurance.
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There have been cases of freedivers

not surviving dives in open water. How
do you feel when you hear news like
this and how do you keep yourself
safe in competition and training?
You have to practice safe diving, that is
all I would say. Like any other sport, you
have to know and accept your threshold
and push yourself only when you know
you can.
How does the first breath after being
underwater for a long time feel like?
It feels like the first breath of life. It
makes you appreciate the gift of living.
What is your advice for those
who want to get into freediving
or other heritage sports?
Try it, it is extremely rewarding. In Russia, we have a Freediving Federation
which trains scores of young people. My
mother is the president of the Freediving Federation in Russia and she enjoys
training young people. Some of my
favourite locations to freedive include
the Red Sea, in terms of its location
and the temperature of the water. The
Mediterranean Sea, including Greece
and Croatia, the Caribbean, The Bahamas are also some of my other favourite
locations.
How do you see this sport
progressing in the next few years
especially in this region?
The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage
Center is doing a great job of organising
this event and the separate categories
for UAE and GCC nationals will encourage more participation in the future. Also,
there is great opportunity for freediving to
become an Olympic sport.
PEOPLE
Stefan Glowacz
Occupation: Climber and adventurer
Nationality: German
Age: 49
Climbing legends Stefan

Glowacz and Chris Sharma descended
to the bowels of the Majilis al Jinn
(which means the gathering place
of the spirits) in Oman to climb up
the roof of the worlds second largest known cave chamber on a never
attempted before route. The athletes
negotiated 13 pitches with overhanging inclines, and even though Stefan
suffered an injury, they grit their teeth
and conquered it. Red Bull athlete Stefan talks more about their epic Into
the Light project.
How did you get into climbing?
I got into climbing when I started walking. My parents loved the mountains and
I grew up hiking in the Alps with them. I
always climbed every rock along our way.
As I grew older the rocks got bigger, the
walls steeper. Thats how it all started.
Why choose to do the
Majilis al Jinn cave?
When I saw the cave I knew I had to
see if there were lines you could climb.
Ive climbed all kinds of walls. Ive never
climbed a cave. I found the idea fascinating to lower yourself into the dark bowels
of the earth and then try to climb back up
into the light. And the Majilis al Jinn cave
is simply breathtaking. Its one of the most
awe-inspiring places Ive been to. When
the idea took form, I realised that the lines
that seemed climbable were all very hard,
long and steep. No one has tried to climb
the cave. Exactly the kind of challenge I
like!
How did you train and prepare
for this climb?
Training is part of my life. I train several
hours a day, every day. I get up early to

get the most out of my day and combine
endurance and strength training. I knew
the Majilis al Jinn would require a good
amount of prep training since the climb is
hard and long. For endurance, I prefer to
bike for several hours and combine that
with climbing long, hard routes, preferably
multi-pitches and compliment that with
boulder training.
How did you manage
the climb in two weeks?
We pulled hard, climbed all day. We didnt
take rest days and put all our energy into
the route. Our strategy was to get the
moves needed to climb down in our heads
while we were setting up the route. We
studied and memorised the rock. We tried
as many sections as we could while setting.
I think Chris and I were the perfect team
for this kind of climb and this kind of tight
schedule.
What were the most difficult
and easiest parts of the routes?
This route is really strange. Every single
pitch is super steep and overhanging but
in the middle of the roof there is a traverse
we managed to climb with our trekking
boots. We called it the adventure hike. We
could not figure out the dimensions from
the ground. It was very hard to get any
beta through the binoculars. Climbing this
route was a bit like trial and error. And of
course the tight schedule was one of the
biggest difficulties.
Did you have any unfortunate
moments during the climb?
When I was cleaning a pitch, both jumars
unhinged and I fell. I grabbed the rope
instinctively and severely burned both my
hands. The second I grabbed that rope
I thought, You idiot! When I felt the
pain and saw my hands, I thought that
was it. I didnt want to put anybody down
and Chris was totally motivating. I knew I

wouldnt be able to climb the hard pitches,
but with Chris as partner it was clear it
could be done. We had a doctor with
us but with burns you need time. There
was nothing we could do. So we had the
choice to cancel the project or just do it.
So I taped my hands and let Chris climb
the tough pitches. It was a great team
effort.
What was the most eye-opening
experience from this trip?
To see Chris climbing. When I started
climbing, I always had older role models.
Now when you get older, I am more fascinated by the young generation. Most of all
I am inspired by Chris because of his way
of thinking about climbing and life.
What are your next projects?
In the summer I am going to Asia for climbing and at the beginning of 2015 Im going
back to Patagonia with Robert Jasper. With
him I climbed Gone With the Wind on
Cerro Murallon in Patagonia and Take the
Long Way Home in Baffin Island.
What would you advise those
who want to get into this sport
in the Middle East?
I wouldnt recommend anybody who is
an inexperienced climber to go climbing
somewhere unexplored. If you want to
experience climbing in the Middle East I
suggest you begin with the main crags like
Dibba or Hatta and go from there. Exploring new areas is always connected with
getting permission to climb there. Get all
the info you can before going!
OUTDOORUAE
55
LOCATIONS
Get outdoors in the UAE

Hiking A series of articles to help you start or progress your hiking in the UAE
Part 5
Words + Photos By: Sean James
Hiking in the heat

Although there is no official start and end to the hiking
season, every year there is a
weekend in which the consensus
is that it is now too hot to hike
during the day. Residents of the
UAE have been lucky this year
and the hiking season in 2014
has extended well into April.
Although hiking is still possible in
the summer months, it is often
humid and the views are slightly
hazy. In addition, finishing early
before the sun reaches its zenith, shorter hikes and staying
high are essential.
This month OutdoorUAE has a number of tips to keep you safe in the hot
months. These tips can apply not just
to hiking but any outdoor activity in the
UAE.
Exercising in the heat is not all bad and
can have its benefits. After a recent cycling trip to Spain, I can confirm training
in low temperatures with the possibility of rain is not a source of inspiration.
Indeed a group of researchers from the
University of Oregon have suggested
heat training may have more benefits
than altitude training for increasing
performance. Although the athletes, who
were cyclists, were only tested in 30%
humidity and at temperatures around
38C there was a 7% increase in the
performance over those who trained
at temperatures of 13C. The researchers also discovered that not only was a
higher level of heat acclimation achieved,
but also that heat training also helped
athletes to compete better in cooler

environments.
But before you go rushing out in the
middle of a Dubai summer, there are a
number of things that you should consider.
1. Liquids
It is so important to maintain the salt and
water balance in your body. Both over
hydration and dehydration are dangerous. While drinking too little fluid will
cause problems and reduce performance,
drinking too much water can flush the
body of all essential minerals and salts.
Hydration varies from person to person
and the amount that is required also varies. Sports scientists have many theories
and recommendations about the amount
required. Some suggest drinking to thirst
but this requires very good judgement
achieved only through trial and error. For
the majority of people, a good guide
Altitude brings a decrease in temperature but watch for increased UV effects
Mornings and evening still provide stunning vistas
when exercising is 1/2L per hour. A good check is the frequency

and color of your urine which should be copious and light in
color. Try avoiding alcoholic and caffeinated drinks and consider
fluids (either natural like coconut juice or manufactured like many
sports drinks) which have salts and minerals to replenish those lost
electrolytes. Many athletes also take tablets which add salts to your
body.
Take every opportunity to refuel and hydrate
2. Time of the day

To get the most out of your summer training or hiking, exercise
during the cooler parts of the day, either early in the morning or
in the evening. In the summer this means early starts. I personally
prefer late evening starts and that means taking a head torch and
being prepared to navigate in the dark.
3. Intensity and duration
When the temperatures and humidity start to rise you have to be
realistic and plan your activity accordingly. A decrease in the intensity and duration will see you active through the summer months
and avoid serious long term issues. Plan easier routes and you will
still be able to get outdoors and hike.
Cooling the body is important
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57
4. Acclimatise
If youre not accustomed to the heat,
take it easy the first few times. Similar to
altitude, it takes time for your body to
adapt to the heat, somewhere between
four and fourteen days. Be aware of the
weather forecast and in particular the
heat index. Heat index is a combination
of both humidity and the temperature
and can result in very different conditions. For example a temperature of 35C
with a humidity of 30% is very different
from a day with 70% humidity.
5. Cover up
Covering up has a number of benefits.
Cooling of the body by evaporation is
assisted by wearing loose clothing. Covering the skin whether with sunscreen or
material also prevents direct sun damage
but be careful not to trap too much heat.
Not all clothes have UV protection so if
you have sensitive skin, check the label
for the technical aspects. In the heat,
there is a temptation to strip off to help
with the evaporation of sweat to make
the body feel cooler. Being in a Muslim
country, skimpy clothing can make you
feel uncomfortable and can also lead to
sunburn. A ventilated hat or visor and
sunglasses are also great to protect the
head from the effects of the sun.
Google Earth Screen shot of the route

You can download the GPS files here: www.outdooruae.com/downloads/mayhike2014.zip
intended activity is essential. Consider

choosing a route that is shaded by plantations or deep in a wadi and not across
a barren desert that is scorched by the
sun.
What are the signs of heat problems?
There are two conditions that are serious;
heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Both
Symptoms of heat exhaustion
Headaches
Heavy sweating
Cold, moist skin, chills
Dizziness or fainting
Weak or rapid pulse
Muscle cramps
Fast, shallow breathing
Nausea, vomiting or both
6. Hike with someone

Safety is found in numbers and especially someone who knows you and can
recognise problems before they become
serious. Its great to push each other to
do a hard session but alwaysknow when
to call it a day and ease off.
Symptoms of heat stroke
7. Planning
Planning is even more important in the
summer months. Any mistakes such as
underestimating the time or distance are
magnified. The ability to modify your
Warm, dry skin with no sweating

Strong and rapid pulse
Confusion and/or unconsciousness
High fever
Throbbing headaches
Nausea, vomiting or both
Quick Checklist Route planning

Start Point
255430.05N 56 353.02E
Off road driving required
No. Parking can be limited so be sensitive

in the village at the start.
Distance & Time from Mirdiff to Start
120km 80min
Navigation on hike
Navigation required. Up and back.

Can be extended
Time required for hike
7hrs 8hrs
Distance
8km
Elevation gain on hike
988m
High Point
976m
Grocery / water on hike
No
Possible to encounter a vehicle on trail
No
Suitable for all the family
This hike is VERY strenuous.

Vague tracks and some loose rock.
Not recommended for small children.
Directions to the start

Enter the start point coordinates into your GPS device or follow the directions from
Google.
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are serious with heat stroke being life

threatening.
Heat exhaustion will inevitably happen
when you hike in the heat. The symptoms
are not nice but are manageable. The
key is to prevent further deterioration
that could lead to the much more serious
heat stroke.
A hike for May
Hiking at this time of the year requires
serious planning, route consideration
and judgment. This route starts at near
sea level and takes you up to a height of
nearly 1,000m. It is a fantastic route that
starts along the top of a gorge, scrambles through a shaded wadi with places
to rest in the shade and then onto a high
ridge looking back over the city of Ras
Al Khaimah. At the high point you can
peer into the start of Wadi Bih and Jebel
Jais. It will definitely test your endurance
and is not a route for novice hikers. Once
at the top, have lunch and a rest before
heading back down the same way. Alternatively for the more adventurous this
can be the start of a longer excursion.
And for those not wanting a full day, the
bottom part of the gorge is fantastic to
explore. Simply turn around when you
have had enough.
The author has
guided hikes, treks
and climbs all
other the world.
He gained his
qualifications from
the British Mountaineering Council,
a national representative body for
England and Wales that exists to
protect the freedoms and promote the
interests of climbers, hill walkers and
mountaineers. At present he lectures
in a college in the UAE. Before that
he worked for a private company that
trained the UAE military forces. He has
also appeared on TV programmes in
the UK and Brazil talking about outdoor activities.
LOCATIONS
martini rock
Dive sites in the UAE
How to get there:

This site is around a 40-minute trip on our
speedboat from the Al Boom, Al Aqah
Dive Centre located at the Le Meridien
Hotel. The drive to Al Aqah from Dubai
normally takes 1.5 to two hours. Alternatively, if you are not driving yourself to
Fujairah, you can also use Al Boom bus
transfers from Dubai. Meeting point is
from the dive centre in Al Wasl Rd.
Description:
This dive site gets its name from the
shape of the rocky pinnacles that are
below the surface, which resembles a
martini glass on its side. The pinnacles are
coloured with a variety of soft and hard
corals, which make a beautiful habitat
for an abundance of marine life which include: cuttlefish on the sand, nudibranchs,
fusiliers, trigger fish, lion fish, scorpion
fish, puffer fish, snappers, broomtail
wrasse, morays, turtles and rays.
In summer you can expect water temperatures of around 30C, and in winter,
an average of around 20C.
Divers can enter in many different ways,
and backward-roll and giant-stride are the
most common.
Visibility will vary between 5-15m, and
on a good day you can even get up to 20
metres visibility! Even when the visibility
isnt that great, you can still find lots of
amazing marine life to get some great
Name of the dive site:
Martini Rock
Location:
Fujairah, UAE
Depth:
10-22 metres
Type of dive:
Rock pinnacle covered with soft and hard corals, with sandy
gullies and surroundings.
Level:
Open Water and up, but enjoyed more by Advanced Open

Water divers and photographers.
macro shots of. Make sure your buoyancy

is up to scratch for these days.
Be aware of the usual suspects on
the east coast, such as lion fish, urchins,
scorpion fish, and occasionally jellyfish!
Hopefully you will get a chance of seeing
a whale shark close to the surface, or a
zebra shark on the sandy bottom.
OBSERVATION:
I absolutely loved the amount of a life on
Martini Rock! So glad that cameras now
use high volume storage, as I was a little
trigger-happy with my snaps! Sonja, from
Germany.
Martini Rock was great! Even though
the vis wasnt great on the day that we
dived, we still saw so much. It was also my
first dive after doing my Advanced Open
Water course, and I really felt comfortable
with my newly developed skills thanks
Al Boom. Hind, from Dubai
Contact:
Al Boom Diving, Al Wasl Rd. Call Centre:
+971 4 342 2993 or
abdiving@emirates.net.ae
Al Boom Diving, Al Aqah, Fujairah: +971
9 204 4925 or andrew@alboomdiving.ae
Al Boom Diving, Atlantis, The Palm: +971
4 263 3000 or bietha@alboomdiving.ae
OUTDOORUAE
59
TIPS & TRICKS
Finding your swim form

Breathing easy
Words By: Trace Rogers, Coach and Founder of SuperTRI
As a triathlon coach, I find

that 90% of the people who approach me for coaching mainly
want assistance with swimming.
Most aspiring triathletes are
confident with their bike and
run skills but dread having to
face the swim. Its not that they
cannot swim the front crawl, its
just that they feel they expend
too much energy doing so. Over
the next few months we will examine why and what to do about
these challenges.
The challenge: shortness
of breath whilst swimming
This is by far the biggest concern for most
people and a very easy problem to solve
once you are aware of it. Many people hold
their breath whilst swimming when they
should in fact be exhaling when their face
is in the water. Breathing during swimming
should be as natural as breathing when
walking. What many athletes do however,
is to hold their breath underwater and then
try to exhale and inhale at the stage of
the stroke where the face is out of water.
Because there is not enough time to do
both, the lungs are neither emptied of the
carbon dioxide build up nor is the oxygen
supply sufficiently replenished. Very soon,
this leaves the athlete feeling exhausted.
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The quick fix: practice

gliding and exhaling
As basic as this is it works.
Stand against the pool wall. Lift your
hands above your head and squeeze your
biceps to ears.
With your arms above your head, bend
forward and aim half a metre below the
waters surface.
With your feet push off from the wall
and as you do so, exhale into the water. It
should be a smooth exhalation more of a
sigh than a blow.
Re-emerge whilst you are still feeling
comfortable but have emptied your lungs of
oxygen (please note that the goal of this exercise is to train yourself in a proper breathing rhythm, not in underwater swimming so
you dont need to glide much further than
two to three metres at a time).
Turn around and immediately glide back
towards the wall.
You will know that you have got the hang
of this once you can keep doing this constantly and indefinitely.
Once you reach this point practice three
and then six and then nine strokes of Front
crawl focusing purely on constantly exhaling
into the water when your face is in the water
and inhaling once your face comes out of
the water. Only progress into practicing this
for a full length of the pool once you are
comfortable breathing over shorter intervals.
Remember, the key is to reinforce the correct technique, so only move on once you
are satisfied that you have achieved this.
Before you know it you will be able to
swim continuously with great ease.
Useful knots #4
Double Uni Knot
The Double Uni Knot is used to tie
lines of equal or different diametre
or strength together. If you are not
familiar with a Single Uni Knot please
check issue number 38 of OutdoorUAE page 58, where the single
Uni Knot is explained. If you are tying
braided to monofilament line, make
more turns with the braided line (10)
and only five with the mono line,
since the braided line tempts more
to slip. This knot is very strong and
holds up to four times the pound test
of the weaker line.
1. Overlap the ends of lines to be
joined. Take the end of one line and
double back and make three to four
wraps around both lines and through
the loop that was formed. Pull tag
end to tighten.
2. Repeat with the end of the line
making the same number of wraps
unless tying with braided line in
which you should double the number
of wraps.
3. You have now tied two Uni Knots.
Pull the standing lines in opposite
direction to slide the two knots
together.
4. Clip ends close to the knot.
In climbing, a similar knot is used and
is called the fishermans or Grapevine
Bend. Since ropes have a bigger diametre, as less as only two turns are
used. The knots are commonly used
to join ropes because of its strength
but it is very hard/impossible to untie
after stress load.
TIPS & TRICKS
Silver Grunter
How and what to catch in the Middle East #4
Words By: Kit Belen
The Silver Grunter, locally

called nagroor is a shallow water inhabitant of the Gulf. Found
in estuarine and shallow areas,
the Silver Grunter is one of the
most important food fish in the
UAE.
Calling the Indian and some parts of
the Pacific Oceans as its home, the Silver
Grunter can be easily distinguished with
its silvery body with numerous scattered dark brown to blackish spots, dark
blotches on the dorsal fin. The juveniles
are pale brown with a lighter belly while
the back has irregular longitudinal streaks
on alternate scale rows, the dorsal fin of
juveniles have dusky coloured membranes and have a dark spot in their
gill covers. They grow up to 60cm; the
normal sizes caught in the gulf could be
anywhere from 30cm or less.
Where to find
Grunters can be found in mangrove areas
and estuaries throughout the Emirates.
Although the mangroves in the Gulf side
are the easiest bets, you can also find
patches of them in the east coast.
A good way of locating them is to look
for areas that have a bottom of sand
Silver Grunters are challenging targets with a

flyrod - especially in waster as shallow as this
In deeper water a weighted
lure or fly works best
and mud with patches of grass and shell

beds. Look for shallow areas that have
this type of bottom and are close to
deep water. This type of bottom structure
attracts this fish and holds them longer.
The best spots I have found almost
always have good current going through
them when the tides rise and fall.
How to catch
The most popular method of catching
the Silver Grunter is by bottom fishing.
Although targeting them like this is effective, you can use different methods to
successfully catch them. When bottom
fishing for them, the best bait is peeled
shrimp, it is easy to find and less messy.
Catching them in deeper water is easier
than in really skinny water, in fact, the
shallower it gets, the more complicated
catching them will be. The rig I use for
them is the sliding sinker rig. This is a
very simple rig that uses a small ball or
egg shaped weight with a hole in the
middle where you pass your fishing line
through. You then put a small bead (I
always use red, however this is a matter
of preference; this bead will protect the
knot that connects the swivel). A swivel,
a short leader and a hook complete the
rig. Once you cast out with this rig, I
keep some slack on the line. This slack
Sight casting with small soft plastics
fished with light lines can outfish
baits when the conditions are right
Wading around estuaries

is a good way to find them
line enables the fish to nibble and run

with the bait without feeling the weight
of the sinker. Done this way, I have
caught more quality fish than with the
usual inline three hook arrangement that
is popular in this region.
When you find them feeding in the
shallows, you can target them by using
small lures and flies. Sight casting for
them in shallow water enables you to
choose the bigger fish and is more sporting. It may be more challenging to catch
them this way, however, it is more enjoyable; the tiniest of splash from your lure
or fly will spook them and before you
know it, they will be out of the area.
I especially love chasing after them
with a flyrod. The light flies hardly make
a splash when they land and they almost
always never spook, aside from that errant cast once in a while.
The Silver Grunter will give you a
spirited fight. Although they will not give
you long scorching runs, they will give
you a jitter or two when they bolt for the
ledge. They will struggle close in before
eventually giving up. What they lack in
strength will be made up with their numbers since when you catch one, there
would most likely be a few of its brothers
and sisters behind it.
Availability and conservation
The Silver Grunter is not on any of the
lists in Choose Wisely and I believe if
listed, they would be in the red. Commercial and recreational angling in
the region have greatly reduced their
numbers in the past few years. It is an
important commercial target in the
region and due to habitat loss, we might
have to say goodbye to this fish before
the authorities take notice.
To see a list of the fish we need
to conserve, please visit
www.choosewisely.ae.
Fast, simple and effective - the sliding sinker rig

is my go-to rig when I fish with shrimps as bait
OUTDOORUAE
61
TIPS & TRICKS
Traumatic injuries
The Initial Survey
We are all aware that with

the opportunity to travel the
world is becoming more accessible and people are venturing
further afield in the quest to get
their fix of whatever sport they
are participating in or searching
a new place for the first time.
Unfortunately, things do not always go
to plan and sometimes sh*t happens. It is
one thing when somebody gets injured in a
country such as the UK, but it is a completely different scenario when someone
gains a similar injury in the middle of nowhere, where there may not be the luxury
of medical assistance a simple phone call
away.
Many of you will have participated in a
first aid course, some of you may be highly
qualified lifeguards, some may be paramedics and some may be proper grownups and work as doctors. For those of you
out there who have got no experience in
first-aid then I urge you to enrol in a course.
It may be a case that the life you save will
be that of a friend.
Remember, injuries dont just happen
while you are participating in sport:
You are involved in a car crash on the
way to the beach, you pass an incident
involving local people in a foreign land, the
country you are in is in political unrest and
things go pop, or the universe decides
to show us how small we are and a natural
disaster occurs whilst you are there. Any of
these would be traumatic to encounter. The
chances are that you are going to offer assistance in one way or another (all of these
examples have happened to European surfers in the past, in the UK and abroad) and it
is vital to at least know the basics.
There is one thing that is written in stone,
it doesnt matter where you are or what
training you have, the initial approach to
any patient will be the same: The Primary
Survey. Obviously, if you have more
knowledge and more equipment you can
deal with incidents at a deeper level but
with no equipment available, everyone is in
the same boat.
So, what is the Primary Survey?
The Primary Survey is a systematic approach to rule out any life threatening
conditions and is one of the most difficult things to carry out whilst a person is
screaming in agony the fractured limb
62
OUTDOORUAE
they have sustained is probably not going

to kill, but a hidden chest injury may well.
Many of you will have heard of the DR
ABC approach to a patient. This is a good
system to follow but I would like to take
things a step further.
If someone has suffered a traumatic
injury then we need to use some common
sense. Is it safe for me to help? Is he/
she conscious? Do I need some help?
Thats a lot of blood Have they been
sick? Is he/she breathing? Is their circulation okay? Have they suffered a head
injury? Do I need to get them out of here
and somewhere safe?
In essence, we have just covered the
Primary Survey:
DR C ABCDE
D Danger Am I going to put myself in
danger if I try and help?
R Response Is the patient conscious,
are they talking, do they open their eyes
when you shout at them, if you pinch their
ear lobe do they respond or are they fully
unresponsive.
HELP Ensure assistance is heading your
way at the very earliest opportunity.
C Catastrophic bleeding Very important
in major trauma. If the patient is losing lots
of blood quickly they are going to die. It
needs to be stopped. With Hawaiian surfer
Bethany Hamilton a leash was used as a
tourniquet to stop her losing blood after a
shark attack, if this was not done she may
well not have lived.
A Airway If a patient has a blocked airway then they cannot breathe. It needs to
be clear. Simply turning a patient onto their
side to allow vomit/blood to drain from the
mouth may be all that is required.
B Breathing Adults breathes
approximately 12-20 times per minute.
Anything less than 10/minute or more than
30/minute may indicate something
is severely wrong.
C Circulation Have they got enough

blood flowing around the body? Look at
their colour, are they pale? If we press our
finger on their breastbone for five seconds
and release, does the colour return in
under two seconds if not, there may be a
circulation problem. Taking a pulse is great
but can often prove difficult in a stressful
environment.
D Disability Here we are looking for
signs of a head injury. Has their level of
response changed from earlier? Are they
quieter? Are both pupils the same size or
unequal, a tell-tale sign of a head injury.
E Environment/Evacuate Are they hot
or are they cold? Is the patient comfortable? Are we able to get them to safety or
are we going to have to wait for help?
If a primary survey is completed and
nothing life threatening is found then we
can move on to treating any injuries which
may be causing pain or discomfort to the
patient. Obviously I cannot cover how to
treat every eventuality in depth which is
why I urge you again to enrol on a suitable
course.
The majority of injuries you will possibly
see are going to fall into the minor trauma
category. Cuts, sprains, strains, fractures
and dislocations. These will be covered in
the next issue.
Take care, stay safe,
Gordon
Gordon Ingram is a paramedic
with experience and knowledge of
pre-hospital care in remote areas. He
has been involved in surfing for over
15 years, being sponsored by Rusty
in his younger years; he was Senior
Instructor at both Harlyn Surf School
and with Saltwater Training in the UK.
DIRECTORY
General Sports
Equipment Megastores
Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center,

Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE,
www.adventurehq.ae
Decathlon, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre,
+97142839392
Go Sport, The Dubai Mall: +97143253595;
Ibn Battuta Mall: +9714368 5344;
Mall of the Emirates: +9714341 3251;
Mirdif City Centre: +97142843034
InterSport, Dubai, Times Square Centre
and Dubai Festival City, +97142066587,
www.intersport.ae
Sun and Sand Sports, most shopping
centres, +97143504444,
www.sunandsandsports.com
Adventure tours and desert safaris
MMI Travel, Mezzanine Floor, Dnata Travel

Centre, Shk Zayed Road, Dubai,
+97144045888, www.mmitravel.ae
Alpha Tours, +97142949888,
www.alphatoursdubai.com
Bike and Hike Oman, PO Box 833, Ruwi,
Postal Code 112, Oman, +96824400873,
www.bikeandhikeoman.com
Cyclone Tours & Travels, Abu Dhabi,
Khalifa Street, +97126276275,
www.cyclonetours.com
Dadabhai Travel, Sama Bldg. next to Al Mulla
Plaza, Dubai-Sharjah Road, Dubai,
+97142209393,www.dadabhaitravel.ae
Desert Rangers, Dubai, +97143572200,
www.desertrangers.com
Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503,
Dubai, +97142959429,
twww.arabiantours.com
Dream Days, +97144329392,
www.dreamdays.ae
Dream Explorer LLC, Dubai,
+971433198801,
www.dreamexplorerdubai.com
Dubai Relax Travel, Dubai,
+97144221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com
Element Fitness, Dubai, +971502771317,
www.element-fitness.net
Explorer Tours, Umm Ramool, Dubai,
+97142861991, www.explorertours.ae,
Gulf for Good, Dubai, +97143680222,
www.gulf4good.org
Gulf Ventures, Dnata Travel Centre
+97144045880, www.gulfventures.com
Net Group, Dubai and Abu Dhabi,
+97126794656, www.netgroupauh.com
Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +97142628889,
www.opdubai.com
Rahhalah, Dubai, +97144472166,
www.rahhalah.com
Relax Tours Travels, Dubai,
+97144221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com
Wild Guanabana, Dubai, +971567954954,
www.wildguanabana.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Fishing, Camping, Kayaking,
& Adventure Club, +971504920860,
mohammed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Air
Ballooning Adventures Emirates, Dubai,

+97142854949, www.ballooning.ae
Jazirah Aviation Club, Ras Al Khaimah,
+9716139859, www.jac-uae.net
Seawings, Dubai, www.seawings.com
Sky Dive Dubai, Dubai, +971501533222,
www.skydivedubai.ae
Boating & Sailing
Manufacturer
Al Fajer Marine, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+97143235181, www.alfajermarine.com
Al Shaali Marine, Ajman, +97167436443,
www.alshaalimarine.com
Alyousuf Industrial, LLC,
+97143474111, www.aym.ae,
yamboats@alyousuf.com
Gulf Craft, Ajman, +97167406060,
www.gulfcraftinc.com
Al Jeer Marina, RAK border Musandam,
+97172682333/+971504873185,
www.aljeerport.ae
Elite Pearl Charter, Saeed Tower 1 office
# 3102, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE,
+971 4 3889666, www.elitepearlcharter.com
Distributors and Dealers
Art Marine, Dubai, +97143388955,
www.artmarine.net
Azure Marine, Dubai, +97143404343,
www.azuremarine.net
Leisure Marine Beach Street, Dubai,
The Walk JBR, +97144243191
Luxury Sea Boats, Dubai, +971505589319,
www.luxuryseaboats.com
Macky Marine LLC, Dubai, +971505518317,
www.mackymarine.com
Nautilus Yachts, Sharjah, +97165576818,
www.nautilusyachts.com
UAE Boats 4 Sale, Dubai Marina,
+97144471501, www.uaeboats4sale.com
Western Marine, Marina Yacht Club, Dubai,
+97143039744
The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+97143405152, www.theboathouse.ae
Equipment
Ali Khalifah Moh Al Fuqaei, Deira, Dubai,
+97142263220
Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +97143468000,
www.masaoodmarine.com
Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,
The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+97143808616/+971553899995,
info@bluewatersmarine.com,
www.bluewatersmarine.com
Extreme Marine, Dubai, +97143992995,
www.extrememarine-me.com
Japan Marine General Trading, Al Garhoud
Road, Liberty Building, Dubai,
+97155 9299111, +97142828255,
uday@japanmarine.jp, www.japanmarine.co
Rineh Emirates Trading LLC, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+97143391512, www.rinehemiratesme.com
Repairs and Maintenance
Extreme Marine, Dubai, Dubai Marina,
+97143992995, www.extrememarine-me.com
Rineh Emirates, Sheikha Sana Warehouse 1,
Al Quoz, +97143391512,
info@rinehemiratesme.com,
www.rinehemirates.com
SNS Marine, JAFZA Techno Park, Jebel Ali,
Dubai, +971501405058, info@snsmarine.ae,
www.snsmarine.ae
The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+97143405152, www.theboathouse.ae
Cruise Operators
4 Yacht Arabia, Shop No. 5, Dubai Marina
Yacht Club, 800 92248, www.4yachtarabia.ae
Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi,

+97126665491,
www.marinaalbateenresort.com
Al Marsa Travel & Tourism, Dibba,
Musandam, +96826836550, +97165441232
Leisure Marine Beach Street, TheWalk JBR,
Dubai, +97144243191
Bateaux Dubai, Dubai Creek opposite
the British Embassy, +97143994994
Bristol Middle East, Dubai Marina,
+97144309941, www.bristol-middleeast.com
Captain Tonys, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, +97126507175, www.captaintonys.ae
Delma Industrial Supply and Marine
Services, Al Bateen Jetty, Abu Dhabi,
+97126668153, www.delmamarine.net
Eden Yachting, Dubai Marina,
+971504586171, www.edenyachting.com
Emirates Yachting, Dubai, +97142826683
El Mundo, Dubai, +971505517406,
www.elmundodubai.com
Four Star Travel and Tourism, Dubai,
+9714 2737779, www.fourstartravels.net
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa,
Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah,
+97192449888, www.rotana.com
Ghantoot Marina & Resort, Abu Dhabi,
+971529933153, www.ghantootmarina.com
Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai,
+971558961276, +971503960202,
www.happydaysdubai.com
JPS Yachts and Charter, Room 225,
Emarat Atrium building, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +97143437734, www.jpsyachts.com
Khasab Divers, Oman, +97156 7255889,
khasab.diver2@gmail.com
Khour Shem Tourism, Oman,
+96826731919, www.khourshemtours.com
LY Catamaran, Dubai, +971505869746,
+971566506683, www.lycatamaran.com
Marine Concept, Dubai, +971559603030,
www.marine-charter-concept.com
Nautica1992, Dubai, +971504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Noukhada Adventure Company, Villa 332/7,
Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi, +97126503600,
www.noukhada.ae
RAK Marine LLC, Ras Al Khaimah City Hilton
Marina, +971504912696, +97172066410
Sea Hunters Passenger Yachts & Boats
Rental, Dubai Marina, +97142951011
Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam,
+971503336046, www.sheesabeach.com
Smoke Dragon Of London Yacht, Abu
Dhabi International Marine & Sports Club,
+971507011958/+971504546617
Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai,
+97142573084
The Club, Abu Dhabi, +97126731111,
www.the-club.com
The Yellow Boats LLC, Dubai Marina Walk
opposite Spinneys, Intercontinental Hotel
Marina, +8008044, www.theyellowboats.com
Khasab Musandam Travel & Tours,
PO Box 411, Khasab, Musandam,
+968 93350703, info@tourkhasab.com
Marinas
Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports
Club, Abu Dhabi, Breakwater, +97126815566,
www.adimsc.com
Abu Dhabi Marina, Abu Dhabi,
Tourist Club Area, +97126440300
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam
+971 7 2682333 or +971 50 4873185
www.aljeerport.ae
Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman, +968 2453
4554, www.almoujmarina.com
Dubai Creek Marina, Deira, Dubai,
+971 4 380 1234, www.dubaigolf.com
Dubai International Marine Sports Club,
Dubai Marina, +97143995777, www.dimc.ae
Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai,
+97143627900,
www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com
Dubai Maritime City Harbour Marina, Dubai,
+97143455545
Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, Dubai,
+97143941669, www.dosc.ae
Emirates Palace Marina, Abu Dhabi,
+97143388955
Four Seasons Marina, Doha, Qatar,
+97444948899, www.mourjanmarinas.com
Fujairah International Marine Club, Fujairah,
+97192221166, www.fimc.ae
Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Marina, Al
Bateen, Intercontinental Hotel, Abu Dhabi,
+97126666888, www.intercontinental.com
Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Marina,
Jebel Ali, Dubai, +9714814 5555/5029,
www.jebelali-international.com
Lusail Marina, Lusail City, Qatar, +9745584
3282, www.mourjan-lusailmarina.com
Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Muscat, Oman,
+96824737286 (ext 215),
www.marinaoman.net
Pavilion Marina, Dubai,
Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +97144068800
The PearlQatar Marinas, Doha, Qatar,
+9744965801, www.ronauticame.com
Umm Al Quwaim Marine Sports Club,
Umm Al Quwaim, +97167666644,
www.uaqmarineclub.com
Dragon Boat Groups
Dubai Dawn Patrol Dragon Boating,
Dubai+971508795645 (Michael),
www.dubaidawnpatrol.org
Dubai Diggers, Jumeirah Beach Hotel,
pier next to 360, Dubai, +971501547175
(Nick Hando), www.dubai-diggers.com
UAE Dragon Boat Association,
+971507634008 (Jason),
www.dubaidragonboat.com
Camping & Hiking
Equipment
Blingmytruck.com, +971505548255,
www.blingmytruck.com
Jack Wolfskin, Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+97142840228; Al Wahda Mall,
Abu Dhabi,+97124437802
Picnico General Trading, near Sharaf DG
Metro Station, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+97143951113
Tresspass, 2nd floor above ice rink,
The Dubai Mall, +97143398801
Gulf Camping, Dubai, U.A.E,
support@gulfcamping.com
Tour Operators
Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971559556209,
www.arabiaoutdoors.com
Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900,
www.adventure.ae
Libra, +971559228362, www.libra-uae.com
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai,
+97143480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Sheesa Beach, Musandam, Dibba,
Dubai, +97142959428, www.arabiatours.com
OUTDOORUAE
63
Caving
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman,

+96824543002, www.holiday-in-oman.com
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai,
+97143480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Oman World Tourism, Oman,
+96899431333,
www.omanworldtourism.com
info@adventure.ae
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Tri Club,
www.abudhabitriclub.com
Cycle Safe Dubai, Dubai Autodrome
www.cyclechallenge.ae
Dubai Roadsters,
www.dubairoadsters.com
Climbing
Diving
Equipment
Global Climbing Trading LLC,
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai,
+97148829361, www.globalclimbing.com
Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square
Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free:
800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae
Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai,
Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +97143466558,
www.barracudadubai.com
Jack Wolfskin
Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+97142840228; Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi
+97124437802
Services
www.adventure.ae
Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free:
800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae
Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi,
+97126429995, www.alshaheenme.com
Dorell Sports Management, Dubai World
Trade Centre, +97143065061,
www.climbingdubai.com
E-Sports UAE, Dubai, +97142824540,
www.esportsuae.com
The Club, Abu Dhabi, +97126731111,
www.the-club.com
Information
UAE Climbing, +971506456491,
www.uaeclimbing.com
Mountain Biking & Cycling
Equipment/Dealers
Cycle Sports, Shop No. 1, Al Waleed Bldg.,
Al Barsha 1, Dubai, +97143415415,
www.cyclesportsuae.com
Fun Ride Sports, 301, 3rd floor, Mushrif
Mall, Abu Dhabi, Rm. 4, Mezzanine floor,
C-13 Bldg., Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi,
info@funridesports.com,
www.funridesports.com
Micahs Bike Shop, Warehouse no.4 6th St.
Al Quoz 3, Dubai, +97143805228
Probike, Dubai, Al Barsha 1, +97143255705,
www.probike.ae
Rage Shop, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai Festival City, +97143369007,
www.rage-shop.com
Ride Bike Shop, Dubai Mall, Festival City,
Oasis Centre, Mirdif City Centre,
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +97143750231,
www.ridebikeshop.com
Revolution Cycles, Shop G05, Apex
Atrium, Motor City, Dubai, +97143697441,
www.rcdxb.com
Sportz Unlimited, Sheikh Zayed Road &
Jebel Ali, Dubai, + 97143388644
Tamreen Sports LLC, Khalifa Street,
Abu Dhabi, +97126222525,
www.tamreensports.com
The Cycle Hub, Motor City, Dubai,
+971505528872, www.thecyclehub.com
Trikke uPT, Dubai, +971 4 508 1202,
+971 55 609 6757, www.trikkeme.net,
info@trikkeme.net
Trek Bicycle Store, Seih Al Salam,
Al Qudra Road, Dubai, +97148327377,
www.trekbikes.ae
Fun Ride Sports, Rm no. 4, Mezzanine floor,
C-13 bldg. Khalifa A City, Abu Dhabi,
+97125566113, www.funridesports.com
Peak Performance, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai Mall, Dubai,
+97143413056/+97143308023
Wolfis Bike Shop, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed
Road, +97143394453, www.wbs.ae
Bikers JLT, Unit H6, Cluster H,
Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, UAE,
052 622 1888,
products@allbikers.net
Operator
+971506259165,
www.adventure.ae,
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi and Dubai,
+97142894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road,
+97143468000, Dubai
Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +97143390621,
www.aym.ae/yamaha
Blue Waters Marine, +97142232189, Dubai,
Gulf Marine Sports, Abu Dhabi,
+97126710017, www.gulfmarinesports.com
Premiers for Equipment, Abu Dhabi,
Sh. Zayed 1st. Road, +97126665226,
www.premiers-uae.com
Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment,
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai,
+9714 3444468
Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah,
+97192388477, www.scuba-2000.com
Scuba Dubai, Al Barsha, Al Khail Road,
Dubai, +97143414940,
info@scubadubai.com
Diving Centres
7 Seas Diving Center, Khorfakkan,
+97192387400, www.7seasdivers.com
Al Boom Diving (equipment),
Dubai, Al Wasl Rd, + 97143422993,
www.alboomdiving.com
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam,
+97172682333, www.aljeerport.ae
Al Mahara Dive Center, near Muroor
St across from main bus terminal,
+97126437377, info@divemahara.com,
www.divemahara.com
Al Marsa Musandam, Dibba Harbour,
Musandam, Oman,
+968 26 836550,
www.almarsamusandam.com
Arabian Diver, Hilton Marine, Ras Al
Khaimah, +97172226628, +971502428128
www.arabiandiver.com
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing
Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971506146931,
www.fishabudhabi.com
Coastal Technical Divers,
glenn@coastaltechnicaldivers.com,
www.coastaltechnicaldivers.com
Deep Blue Sea Diving, Dubai, International
City, +97144308246,
www.diveindubai.com
Desert Islands, Sir Bani YAs Island,
Abu Dhabi, UAE, +97128015400,
www.divemahara.com
Divers Down, Fujairah, Rotana Al Aqah
Hotel Resort & Spa, +97192370299,
www.diversdown-uae.com
Emirates Divers Centre, Abu Dhabi,
near Meena Fish Market, +97126432444,
www.edc-ad.ae
Euro-Divers Oman, Muscat, Oman,
+96895035815, www.euro-divers.com
Extra Divers Ziggy Bay, Oman, Musandam,
+96826735555,
www.extradivers.info
Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah,
contactus@freedivinguae.com,
www.freedivinguae.com
Freestyle Divers, Dubai, Al Wasl & Dibba,
Royal Beach Hotel, +97143944275,
www.freestyledivers.com
Fujairah Rotana Resort
& Spa - Al Aqah Beach,
Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah,
+97192449888,
www.rotana.com
Global Scuba Dive Center, Civil Aviation
Club, Oman, +96899317518,
www.global-scuba.com
Khasab Divers, Oman,
www.khasabdiver.com
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort,
Dibba Road, Fujairah, +97192449000,
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
Moonlight Dive Center,
Madinat Qaboos, Oman,
+968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com

Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre,
Oman, +97150 3289642,
www.holiday-in-oman.com
Neptune Diving, +97150 4347902,
www.neptunedivingcentre.com
Nomad Ocean Adventures,
www.discovernomad.com, +971508853238,
Dibba, Oman
Oman Dive Center, Muscat, Oman,
+96824284240, www.omadivecenter.com
Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai,
+97144068828
Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah,
+97192388477, www.scuba-2000.com
Scuba Oman, Oman, +96899558488,
www.scubaoman.com
Scuba UAE.com, +971502053922,
www.scubauae.com
Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah,
+97150 784 0830, www.bsac406.com
Sky &Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton,
Jumeirah Beach Road, +97143999005,
www.watersportsdubai.com
The Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment),
Dubai, +97144068828
The Dive Shop, 34G, European
Center, Green Community, Dubai, UAE,
+97148135474, www.thediveshopdubai.com
Clubs
Atlantis Underwater Photography Club,
Dubai, +97144263000
Desert Sports Diving Club, Dubai,
www.desertsportsdivingclub.net
Emirates Diving Association, Diving Village,
Al Shindagha, Dubai,
+97143939390, www.emiratesdiving.com
Filipino SCUBA Divers Club (FSDC),
Dubai, UAE, +971 56 6952421,
www.thefilipinoscubadivers.com
Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah,
contactus@freedivinguae.com,
www.freedivinguae.com
Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah,
+971507840830,
www.bsac406.com
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai,
+97142894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd,
+97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha
Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment,
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai,
+9714 3444468
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing
Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971506146931,
Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,
The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+97143808616/+971553899995,
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed
Road, +97143468000,
New rates for 2014

Single visit 80 aed
10 visit pass: 500
Summer Sizzler 1 May to 30 Sept
(5 months) 1,500
Courses starting in May for
beginners and intermediate
facebook.com.rock.republic.dubai
or info@globalclimbing.com
04 88 29 361
The Beach-JBR, Dubai | Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi
RENT ADVENTURE GEAR | BIKE WORKSHOP | DELIVERY AVAILABLE | IN-STORE ADVENTURES
DUBAI
Times Square Center | Tel No.: +971 4 346 6824
The Beach, JBR | Tel No.: +971 4 430 4419
ABU DHABI
Dalma Mall | Tel No.: +971 2 445 6995
info@adventurehq.ae | www.adventurehq.ae
Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai,
Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +97143466558,
www.barracudadubai.com
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai,
+97148829361, www.globalclimbing.com
Leisure Marine Beach Hut, The Walk JBR,
Dubai, +97144243191,
www.leisuremarine-me.com
Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre,
+971502898713, www.oceanactive.com
Challenging Adventure, Wadi Al Bih Ras Al Khaimah, 056 1060798,
contactus@challengingadventure.com
Al Kashat, Shop No. 14, Souq Waqif,
Doha, Qatar, +974 44 175950,
www.alkashatqatar.com
Operators
Al Boom Diving, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach
Resort, Fujairah, +97143422993
www.adventure.ae
Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, Al
Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah, +97172434540,
www.alhamramarina.com
Al Mahara Dive Center,
Downtown Abu Dhabi, +971501118125,
www.divemahara.com
Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi,
+97126429995, www.alshaheenme.com
Al Wasl Charter & Fishing (Al Wasl
Passenger Yachts and Boats Rental LLC),
Airport Road, Al Owais Building, Dubai,
+97142394761, www.cruiseindubai.com
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters,
Al Bateen Marina Resort, +971506146931,
Barracuda Diving Centre, Fujairah
International Marine Club, +9719222558
Belevari Marine, Abu Dhabi,+97126594144
Captain Tonys, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, +97126507175, www.captaintonys.ae
Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai,
+97153244550, www.funbeachsports.com
Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai,
+971558961276, +971503960202,
www.happydaysdubai.com
Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi
Hotel, Abu Dhabi, +97126811900
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort,
Dibba Road, Fujairah, +97192449000,
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
Nautica 1992, Dubai, +971504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Noukhada Adventure Company,
Villa 332/7, Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi,
+97126503600, www.noukhada.ae
Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre,
+971502898713,
www.oceanactive.com
Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai,
+97142573084,
www.summertimemarine.comz

Soolyman Sports Fishing, Dubai,
Umm Suqeim, +971508866227,
www.soolymansportsfishing.com
Xclusive Yachts, Dubai, Dubai Marina,
+97144327233, www.xclusiveyachts.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Camping, Fishing & Kayaking
Club, mohamed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Dubai Surfski & Kayak Club, Kitesurfers
Beach, Umm Suqeim 1, Dubai,
+971554986280, www.dskc.hu
General Sports Equipment

Distributors
800 Sport, Al Quoz, Dubai

+971 4 346 7751
www.800sport.ae
Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free:
800-ADVENTURE,
www.adventurehq.ae
Dubai, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha
Flip Flop Arabia, flipme@flipfloparabia.com,
www.flipfloparabia.com
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai
+97148829361,
www.globalclimbing.com
Goal Zero, +971509128353,
www.goalzero.ae
Jack Wolfskin Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+97142840228; Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi
+97144437802
Ocean Sports FZE, +971559352735,
www.kitesurfsup.com
Sakeen General Trading, +97147094224,
www.sakeen.ae
Sport in Life Distribution, Nad Al
Hammar Rd., Ras Al Khor, Dubai, UAE,
+97142896001, +97142896002,
info@sportinlife.ae,
www.sportinlife.ae
Tresspass, The Dubai Mall
2nd floor above ice rink, +971 4 339 8801
Horse Riding
Equipment
Al Asifa Horse Equestrian & Requisites
Trading, Al Khawaneej 1, Dubai,
+971554733110, www.asifa.ae
Black Horse LLC, Abu Dhabi,
+97126422237, www.blackhorseuae.com
Bonjour Equestrian Supplies,
Nad Al Hammar Rd., Ras Al Kho, Dubai,
UAE, +97142896001, +97142896002,
info@bonjourequestrian.com,
www.bonjourequestrian.com
Cavalos Equine Care and Supplies,
16th Street, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi,
+9172 2222433, www.cavalosuae.com
Emirta Horse Requirement Centre,
Sheik Zayed Rd, Dubai, +9714 3437475,
www.emirtahorse.com
Horse & Carriage Equestrian Equipment
LLC, Dubai, +97142895069,
www.horseandcarriageuae.com
Mirzan Equestrian Equipment, Dubai,
+971 4 4472808, www.metdubaihorse.com
Equestrian Clubs/Centres
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif,
Abu Dhabi, +97124455500,
www.adec-web.com
Al Ahli Riding School, Al Amman Street,
Dubai-Sharjah Rd., +97142988408,
www.alahliclub.info
Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu
Dhabi, +97125568555, www.alforsan.com
Al Jiyad Stables, Behind Dubai International
Endurance City, Dubai, +971505995866,
info@aljiyad.com, www.aljiyad.com
Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre,
Dubai, +97144274055,
equestrian.centre@alsahra.com
Dubai Polo Academy, Dubai,
+971508879847,
www.dubaipoloacademy.com
Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai,
Arabian Ranches, +97143618111,
www.poloclubdubai.com
Desert Equestrian Club, Mirdif, Dubai,
+971503099770, +971501978888
Desert Palm Riding School, Near Al Awir
Road (going to Hatta-Oman),
Dubai, +97143238010,
www.desertpalm.peraquum.com
Emirates Equestrian Centre, Dubai,
+971505587656,
www.emiratesequestriancentre.com
Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club, Exit 399,
Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi,
+97125629050, www.grpc.ae
Golden Stables Equestrian Club, Al
Khawaneej, Dubai, (Nouri) +971555528182,
www.goldenstables.ae
HoofbeatZ, located just inside the Dubai
Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai,
+971501810401, www.hoofbeatz.com
Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club, Mushrif
Park, Al Khawaneej Road, Dubai,
+97142571256, www.mushrifec.com
Qudraland Community,
info@qudraland.com, www.qudraland.com
Rahal Ranch, Al Wathba Racing Area,
Abu Dhabi, +971566127914,
www.rahalranch.com
Riding for the Disabled, Dubai,
lessons@rdad.ae, www.rdad.ae,
Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club,
Sharjah, Al Dhaid Road,
+97165311188, www.serc.ae
Racecourses
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif,
Abu Dhabi, +97124455500,
www.adec-web.com
Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, Exit 399,
Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi,
+97125629050, www.grpc.ae
Jebel Ali Racecourse, off the main Abu
Dhabi - Dubai Highway (Sheikh Zayed
road) beside the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai,
+97143474914
Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse,
Al Meydan Road, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai,
+97143270000, www.meydan.ae
Sharjah Racecourse, Al Dhaid Road,
Sharjah, +97165311155, www.serc.ae
Equine Hospitals/Clinics
Dubai Equine Hospital, behind World Trade
Center, Zabeel 2, Dubai, +97143178888,
www.dubaiequine.ae
Gulf Vetcare, Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi,
+971508617590, www.gulfvetcare.com
Sharjah Equine Hospital, Bridge No. 6,
Al Dhaid Road, next to Sharjah Equestrian
& Racing Center, Sharjah, +97165311881,
www.seh.ae
Central Veterinary Research Laboratory,
next to Dubai Equestrian Hospital, Zabeel 2,
Dubai, +97143375165, www.cvrl.ae
Jet Ski
Dealers
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh
Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.
masaoodmarine.com
Japan Marine General Trading,
Al Garhoud Road, Liberty Building, Dubai,
+97155 9299111, +97142828255,
uday@japanmarine.jp,
www.japanmarine.co
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4,
Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143419341,
www.libertykawasaki.com
Rentalst
Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai,
+971 5 3244 550, www.funbeachsports.com
The Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah,
+9717206000, www.rotana.com
Xventures, Dubai, +971555404500,
www.x-ventures.ae
Regal Promotions, Level 14,Boulevard
Plaza Tower 1, Sheikh Mohammed Bin
Rashid Boulevard. Downtown Dubai,
PO Box 334036 Dubai, UAE, +971 4 4558570,
info@regalproms.com
Motocross
& ATVs
Dealers
Al Badayer Rental (Rental),
Dubai-Hatta Road, +971507842020,
www.albadayerrental.com
Al Shaali Moto, Ras Al Khor, +97143200009,
sales@alshaalimoto.com.
www.alshaalimoto.com
KTM, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, exit 42,
+9714323151, www.ktm.com
Golden Desert Motorcycles Rental
(Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai,
+971551532550,
www.goldendesert-dubai.com
Polaris UAE (atvs), Ras Al Khor, Nad al

Hamar Road, Al Ghandi Complex, Dubai,
+97142896100, M4, Sector 13,
10th Street, Mussafah Industrial, Abu Dhabi,
+97125555144, www.polarisuae.com
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4,
Sheikh Zayed Road, 04-3419341,
Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental), Al Quoz,
Dubai, +97143470270,
www.sandstorm-motorcycles.com
Sebsports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1
Dubai, +97143393399, www.sebsports.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai,
+97148321050, www. wildx.ae
Equipment
Dubai, +97142959429,
www.arabiantours.com
2XWheeler, Motorcity Dubai,
+97144548388, www.2xwheeler.com
Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental),
Al Quoz, Dubai, +97143470270,
www.sandstorm-motorcycles.com
Sebsports, Dubai, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3,
+97143393399, www.sebsports.com
Wild X, Dubai, Um Al Ramoul Industrial Area,
+97142852200, www. wildx.ae
Motorcycling
Distributors and Dealers

www.aym.ae/yamaha
Ducati, Mussafah 4, Street 10, Abu Dhabi,
+97125535771, info2@ducati.ae,
www.ducati.ae
Duseja Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+97143476712, www.dusejamoto.com
Harley-Davidson, Mussafah 4, Street 10,
Abu Dhabi, +97125540667,
hd.auh@harley-davidson.ae,
www.harley-davidson-abu-dhabi.com
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange4,
Polaris UAE, Al Ghandi Complex,
Nad al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor,
+97142896100, www.polarisuae.com
Tristar Motorcycles, +97143330659,
www.tristaruae.com
Workshops and Services
2xWheeler Adventures, Dubai,
+97144548388, www.alainraceway.com
Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu
Dhabi, +97125568555, www.alforsan.com
Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, +97143678700
www.dubaiautodrome.com
Emirates Motorplex, Umm Al Quwain,
+97167681717
Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi,
www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Off-Road
Dealers
4x4 Motors LLC, Shk. Zayed Rd, Dubai,
+97143384866, www.4x4motors.com
Bling My Truck,
+971503634839/+971505548255,
info@blingmytruck.com,
Liberty Automobiles, Dubai, 8005423789,
www.libertyautos.com
Repairs and Services
Off Road Zone, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+97143392449,
www.offroad-zone.com
Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +97143382744,
www.icon-auto.com
Saluki Motorsport, Dubai, +97143476939
www.salukimotorsport.com
Equipment
Advanced Expedition Vehicles,
Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +97143307152,
www.aev.ae
Dubai, +97143390621,
www.aym.ae/yamaha
Bling My Truck,
+971503634839/+971505548255,
info@blingmytruck.com,
Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +97143382744,
www.icon-auto.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai-Hatta Road,
Dubai, +97148321050, www.wildx.ae
Yellow Hat, Nad Al Hamar, and Times
Square Center, Dubai, +97142898060,
www.yellowhat.ae
Heartland UAE, Al Mafraq Industrial,

Abu Dhabi, +971 56 7231967,
www.heartlanduae.com
Tour Operators
Dubai, +97142959429, www.arabiantours.com
Arabian Adventures, Dubai & Abu Dhabi,
+97143034888,
www.arabian-adventures.com
Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +97142628889,
www.opdubai.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Off- Road Club,
www.ad4x4.com
ALMOST 4x4 Off-Road Club,
+971507665522, www.almost4x4.com
ME 4X4, www.me4x4.com
JEEP Wrangler JK Fun Club,
suffian.omar@yahoo.com,
www.jk-funclub.com
Dubai Offroaders,
www.dubaioffroaders.com
Running
Clubs
ABRasAC, Dubai, www.abrasac.org
Abu Dhabi Tri Club, Abu Dhabi,
www.abudhabitriclub.org
Al Ain Road Runners, Abu Dhabi,
+971504188978,
alainroadrunners@yahoo.co.uk
Mirdif Milers, Dubai, www.mirdifmilers.info
Abu Dhabi Striders,
admin@abudhabistriders.com,
www.abudhabistriders.com
Dubai Creek Striders
www.dubaicreekstriders.org
OUTDOORUAE
65
Stand up Paddling, Kite & Surfing,

Wakeboarding
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai,
+971 4 2894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai,
Picnico
+97143941653
Jumeirah Beach Road
Opposite Sunset Mall, Dubai
Pearl Water Crafts,
Dubai Marina Yacht Club, +971553749398,
www.pearl-watercrafts.com
Surf Dubai, Dubai, Umm Suqeim,
+971505043020,
www.surfingdubai.com
Surf Shop Arabia, Building 1,
Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai,
+97143791998,
www.surfshoparabia.com
UAE Kite Surfing, +971505626383,
www.ad-kitesurfing.net
Iknic Brands, Suite 509 Dsseldorf
Business Point Al Barsha Dubai, UAE
+971 50 687 4178, info@ikonicbrands.com
Kitesurf Dubai, Kitesurf Beach,
Umm Suqueim and Jumeirah 3
+971 50 558 6190, info@kitesurfdubai.ae,
www.kitesurfdubai.ae
Distributors
Ocean Sports FZE, +971559352735,
www.kitesurfsup.com
Kitepeople Kite & Surf Store,
International City, Dubai,

+971504559098, www.kitepeople.ae
Operators
Al Forsan International Sports Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +97125568555, www.alforsan.com
Dubai Kite Surf School, Dubai,
Umm Suqeim Beach, +971 504965107,
www.dubaikitesurfschool.com
Duco Maritime, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah
and Abu Dhabi, +971508703427,
www.ducomaritime.com
Dukite, Kitesurf Beach, Umm Suqeim,
Dubai,+971507586992, www.dukite.com
Kite Fly, Dubai, +971502547440,
www.kitesurf.ae
Kitepro Abu Dhabi, Yas Island
and Al Dabbayyah, Abu Dhabi,
+971505441494, wwww.kitepro.ae
Kite4fun.net, Abu Dhabi, +971508133134,
www.kite4fun.net
Nautica1992, Dubai, +971504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Shamal Kite Surfing, Umm Suqueim Dubai,
+971507689226, astrid@shamalkitesurfing.
com, www.shmalkitesurfing.com
Sky & Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton,
Jumeirah Beach Road, +97143999005,
www.watersportsdubai.com
Surf School UAE, Umm Suqeim Beach and
Building 1, Al Manara Road (East), Interchange
3, Dubai,+971556010997,
www.surfschooluae.com
Watercooled, Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa,
Dubai, +97148876771,
www.watercooleddubai.com
Add your free listing to the
ONLINE DIRECTORY
Do you have a business related to outdoor activities, sports,
lifestyle or travel? Or are you an active club or social group who
is looking for new members? Then list your businesses, clubs or
groups with us.
The listing should give all people interested with the outdoors
a good overview of what is offered in the UAE, easy access to
contact details and a reliable location map.
To ensure that all entries are genuine and complete, we review
any listing before it will be posted online. We also review all
entries on a quarterly basis, to keep the directory up to date.
Water Cooled, Watercooled Sports Services

LLC, Hilton Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, UAE,
+971 2 6395997, www.watercooleduae.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle,
www.abudhabisup.com,
abudhabisup@gmail.com
UAE SUP www.uaesup.com
Water Parks
Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai, Palm

Jumeirah, +97144260000,
www.atlantisthepalm.ae
Dreamland Aqua Park, Umm Al Quwain,
Emirates Road, +97167681888,
www.dreamlanduae.com
Wadi Adventure, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain,
+97137818422, www.wadiadventure.ae
Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai,
+97143484444,
www.wildwadi.com
Other leisure activities
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi,

+ 97125588990, www.adgolfclub.com
Al Tamimi Stables, Sharjah,
+9716743 1122, +97144370505,
www.tamimistables.com
Blokart Sailing, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai,
+971556101841, www.blokartme.com
Childrens City, Creek Park Gate No.1,
Dubai, +97143340808, www.childrencity.ae
Dolphin Bay Atlantis
Dubai, +97144260000,
www.atlantisthepalm.ae
Dubai Dolphinarium Dubai, Creek Park
Gate No. 1, +97143369773,
www.dubaidolphinarium.ae
iFly Dubai, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre,
+97142316292, www.iflyme.com
Sadiyaat Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat
Island, +97125578000, www.sbgolfclub.ae
Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Sharjah,
+97143999005, www.golfandshootingshj.com
SkiDubai, Dubai, Mall of The Emirates,
+97144094000, www.skidxb.com
Spacewalk Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi,
+97124463653, www.spacewalk.ae
Health, Safety & Training
Safety Lessons
Marine Concept Yacht Charter & Sea
School, Rania Business Centre, Dubai,
+971559603030,
www.marine-charter-concept.com
Safety & Leisure Training Middle East,
Dusseldorf Business Point, Al Barsha 1,
Dubai, +97144502418, www.sltme.com
Sport and Health Centres
Bespoke Wellness, Dubai, +971553724670,
info@bespoke-wellness.com,
www.bespoke-wellness.com
The Physio Center, Suite 405, Building
49, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai,
+97144370570, www.physiocentre.ae
Original Fitness Co., C6 Tower Al Bateen
Bainunah St, Abu Dhabi, +9712406 9404,
info@originalfitnessco.com,
www.originalfitnessco.com
Orthosports, 5B Street,
Jumeira Beach road, Dubai, +9714355060,
www.orthosp.com
Integrated Tie-down points

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Lightweight, hygienic & easy to clean
Strong ABS latches with stainless steel fixing screws
Integrated polyethylene feet & large diameter drain plug
Strong, ergonomic polyethylene handles ( WCI-42 and up)
largest service network
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Designed for optimal performance/weight/volume balance
Strong, seamless, UV stabilised/food grade polyethylene CFC free
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www.waeco.ae info@waeco.ae
Available at

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Price: 10 DHS

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