Years to s ea

RECENTly Hadag partnered with the Bahrain Yacht Club (BYC) for their annual fishing competition, the largest of its kind on the island. With over 287 participants in 75 boats, and 18 confirmed sponsors, the event was a huge success, but its importance goes beyond being simply a competitive event for fishing enthusiasts.

“While everyone enjoys the competition and has a good time, its main objective is to teach participants how to fish responsibly whilst protecting the ocean environment by providing them with all the necessary information, such as suitable areas, types of fish, and methods and equipment for fishing,” says BYC Commodore Abdulla Alnaimi.

Abdulla has been a member of the club since 2002, and Commodore since 2012. As an ocean lover, it’s a role he takes very seriously, thanks to the importance of the club to its members. “The BYC is the first choice for sailing enthusiasts because of the facilities, the instructors and the great location, which is easy to reach in the middle of the island. It is both a centre for watersports and a social club for people who are interested in water sports and the ocean.”

The BYC provides all kinds of watersports training with qualified instructors, from sailing and powerboat courses to captain’s courses, windsurfing, and more. There’s also a marina and a workshop, as well as a clubhouse with a restaurant and social facilities.

Though it caters to a wide range of maritime activities, the club’s main area of focus is sailing. “The biggest event of the year, and the biggest event of its kind in Bahrain, is the annual Spring Regatta, which is a whole day out for all the family with a BBQ and entertainment in addition to the competition,” says Abdulla.

As a fully recognised Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Training Centre, there are many levels of tuition available at the club for both children and adults, in a variety of crafts, all conducted by qualified RYA sailing instructors, which guarantees that the training will be of the highest international standard. Training is available to all, regardless of age or ability. Children as young as seven are able to learn boat handling techniques, safety and essential background knowledge of sailing. Anyone with a love for the ocean is welcome to visit the Bahrain Yacht Club to find out more.