Hi weekly - January 22, 2016

OMAN’S LARGEST CIRCULATED RCULATED WEEKLY WEE EK KLY Y—5 54,000 4,0 4,0 000 00 COP C CO COPIES OP PIIE ES E S

VOL 10 ISSUE 4 / JANUARY 22, 2016

SOMETHING SWEET IS AFOOT AT AVENUES MALL IN GHUBRA PAGE 20

Audited by

THIS WEEK IN OMAN

GET A PAIR Add steel toes, high-gloss leather, or weathered hipster stompers to your repertoire.

Men’s boots are not only protective and utilitarian, they also pack major manly style.

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GO OUTSIDE AND PLAY Take your fitness routine alfresco to revitalise your body and mind. Check out our favourite routines and where to practice them. PAGE 12

RAISE THE BAR Meet Ionela Yammine, an elite Romanian gymnast who has introduced her graceful, competitive sport to Muscat with the first private gymnastics centre in the Sultanate.

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

Give us a shout with questions, comments, compliments, complaints, or just to say “Hi” Founder Essa bin Mohamed Al Zedjali Chairman Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali CEO Ahmed Essa Al Zedjali scottarmstrong@timesofoman.com Chief Executive Editor Scott Armstrong felicia@timesofoman.com

Executive Features Editor Felicia Campbell Features Production Editor Swati Dasgupta

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Editor Hubert Vaz

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Senior Editors T. A. Ameerudheen Faisal Mohammed Naim ameerudheen@timesofoman.com

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shafeeq@timesofoman.com Multimedia Editorial Assistants Shruthi Nair, Asmaa Al Balushi, Salim Hamood Al Afifi

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HI WEEKLY

Tell us what you’re doing this weekend: Tweet us @HiWeekly_Oman; tag us in your weekend instagram photos @hiweekly_oman; or share with us on FB/hiweekly

THE WEEKEND LINEUP Your calendar of the hottest events happening in Muscat this weekend

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FRIDAY

SATURDAY

6 30pm Get Some Artistic Inspiration

5.30pm Chill-Out With the Kids

9am Lights Camera Action

Head to MuscArt in Ghubra to hear professional children’s book illustrator and author, Ibtihaj Al Harthi, talk about her career path as an artist and professional publishing illustrator in Oman, her recently published book ‘Mah and Me,’ and her online series ‘Hans Hedgehog’.

Attend the Little Star Children Programme, a meditation event for children organised by Rajayoga Centre for Self development wherein kids from 6 to 12 will take part in activities that relax the mind and nurture a healthy balance between inner and outer worlds.

Attend the film making classes from 9am to 12pm and from 3pm to 6pm at Caledonian College, Airport Heights and be a part of the International Workshop on Movie making in Oman. +968 9700 4350 iffmuscat@gmail.com

+968 2478 2924 rajayogaoman.org

Oman Comedy Central has organised a stand-up night at Route 66 in Qurum, where you can enjoy new material from local comedians Joe Sims, Asma, Sam.I.Am, and Neston Moras.

+968 2449 3912 muscart.net

7pm Pianissimo Pianista Go to ROHM and get mesmerised by the talented piano virtuoso who will be performing Bach and Mozart’s piano concerts with one of Europe’s best chamber orchestras. +968 2440 3300 rohmuscat.org.om

8.00pm Dine in Tune Enjoy your Friday dinner at Chef’s Inn restaurant, Azaiba amid live piano performance from 8 to 10pm by Marwan Al Hashami. +968 2412 1823 chefsinnrestaurant.com

7pm Laugh Out Loud

+968 2469 9946 facebook.com /route66oman

10pm Hit-Up Ladies Night Route 66 is hosting an old school ladies hip hop night in the Mirage Ballroom, with free entry for the gals. +968 2469 9946 facebook.com/route66oman

Photography: Supplied

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Where did you escape to this weekend?

Show us on Instagram @hiweekly_oman and tell us about it on facebook.com/hiweekly

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

KHALEEJI HAPPENINGS Broadcasting the best events in the GCC (January 21, 22, 23)

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Thursday, January 21 Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship (Abu Dhabi)

Cheer for your favourite Golfer at the 11th Edition of Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship at Abu Dhabi Golf Club from 21st to 24th January. Major names including Jordan Spieth, Rory McIlroy, and Rickie Fowler will be on the course. Tickets are available on the event’s official website for AED50 for a one-day pass and AED150 for a four-day pass.

Abu Dhabi Golf Club +971 2558 8990 abudhabigolfchampionship.com

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Friday, January 22 Bahrain International Airshow 2016 (Bahrain)

Enjoy a unique flying display at the Bahrain International airshow at Sakhir Airbase in Bahrain between 10am and 6pm from 21st to 23rd January. Tickets are available online and at all Batelco outlets for BD5 for children up to 16 years and BD10 for adults.

Sakhir Air Base bahraininternationalairshow.com

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Friday, January 22 Quoz Arts Fest (Dubai)

Celebrate art and culture at Alserkal Avenue in Dubai where participating galleries will showcase their work from different disciplines; from Music to Visual Arts. The two-day event will take place on the 22nd and 23rd of January; 10am to 10pm. Admission is free.

Alserkal Avenue, Street 8, Al Quoz 1. +971 50556 9797 alserkalavenue.ae

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Visit the 360 Mall for the Auto Moto 16, the largest motor show in Kuwait, where more than 100 cars ranging from economy to luxury will be displayed for the first time in Kuwait, with some available for test drives, as well as a free karting experience for families. This free event will be open to the public from 10am-11pm till 23rd January.

360 Mall +965 1800 360 360mall.com

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MARTIAL ARTS hiweekend@timesofoman.com

Saturday, January 23 Zumba Festival DXB 2016 (Dubai)

Dance your heart out while getting in shape at Dubai’s first Zumba festival, which will be held at Zabeel Park from 10am to 5pm.

The event will combine the popular dance workout with the Holi Festival featuring music, entertainment, prizes, and activities for the kids.

Zabeel Park +971 50777 5878 zumbafestdxb.com

KARATE

TAEKWONDO

CAPOEIRA

MUAY THAI

KICKBOXING

Try this striking art that uses punching, kicking, knee strikes, elbow strikes, and open hand techniques such as knife-hands, from Saturday to Thursday (kids 5:30-6:30pm, adults 8:30-9:30pm) +968 9906 8625 omankarate.com

An Olympic sport, this martial art originated in Korea in the early 1950s. Try it on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, 7pm to 8:30pm at Professional Martial Arts and Fitness Academy +968 9520 9001; facebook. com/promafacademy

Try this expression of the body, mind, and spirit in which two players, encircled by other capoeiristas, move around each other in ‘mock combat’ to music at The Champ Oman, Sunday to Thursday from 5pm to 7pm. +968 9777 0498; thechampoman.com

A Thai combat sport that uses stand-up striking along with various clinching techniques, you can practice Muay Thai under the guidance of trained instructors at RevGx Martial Arts and Fitness Centre, Monday and Wednesday from 7:30 to 9pm. +968 9781 4636; revgx.com

A stand-up combat sport based on kicking and punching practised for self-defence and general fitness, try kickboxing at Champ Oman on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 7pm to 9:30pm. +968 9777 0498; thechampoman.com

Photography: Supplied

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FIVE TO TRY

Saturday, January 23 Auto Moto 16 (Kuwait)

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Going out of town to see any of these events? Tag us on Instagram @hiweekly_oman and tell us about it on facebook.com/hiweekly

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

WEEKEND ESCAPE

THE PEARL OF ANCIENT DHOFAR

MAGNIFICENT MIRBAT Disguised as a little fisherman’s village, Mirbat was once the capital of ancient Dhofar and an important port for the frankincense trade. The faded-glory town is a wonderful destination to discover historic sites, delicious local seafood, and coral rich beaches.

STORY OLGA AYMERICH FRIDAY 08:30 Hop aboard an Oman Air flight to Salalah from Muscat.

10:10 Arrive in Salalah airport, pick-up your rental car, and enjoy a peaceful 50-minute drive out of the city along highway 49, which will take you directly to Mirbat.

11:00 Begin your adventure with a visit to Mirbat’s Castle to learn about the town’s military history. The castle sits on a cliff and offers superb views of the crashing waves along the coast line. Outside the fort, try to spot the two tiny statues of prancing horses marking the entrance to the town, a nod to the fact that Mirbat was once an important breeding centre for Arabian horses.

11:40 Below the castle, take the winding road across the old harbour to a rocky enclave dotted with little wooden fisherman boats to enter Mirbat’s old town. The houses are wonderful examples of the ancient Dhofari-style construction that uses mud bricks decorated with wooden, carved windows.

13:00 Have lunch at any one of the little restaurants near the sea harbour and enjoy just-caught grilled fish or fish biryani along with home-made khubz bread.

14:30 After lunch, head over to the Mausoleum of Bin Ali, whose tomb is located under a cosy white mosque that was built in honour of the 14th century Islamic scholar.

15:30 Drive back towards the town and check in the Salalah Marriott Resort (+968 2327 5500; marriott.com), rest and have a swim in the 2,000sqm pool overlooking the sea.

20:00 Enjoy more local seafood at the upscale Al Dana restaurant and then head to The Cove lounge to wind down before bed.

SATURDAY 08:30 Start the day with freshly brewed coffee and stunning views of the Arabian Sea at the Dhofar Lounge in the hotel lobby.

10:00 Grab your snorkelling gear and plunge into the water to discover the tremendous coral reefs.

14:00 Stop for a quick lunch in Mirbat town before diving off towards Tawi Atayr to visit the towering groves of Baobab trees. On the way, stop at the marked anti-gravity point where you can leave your car in neutral and feel it drift uphill.

15:30 Have a pleasant walk under the Baobab trees and marvel that this is the only place in Arabia where these African natives grow wild.

17:35 Take the scenic byways back to the airport to catch your 45-minute flight home. —HiWeekend@timesofoman.com

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

GET OUT TO GET FIT OUTDOOR RUNNING There is no fitness programme more convenient and simple than running; all you need is the will to run and a safe stretch of road or earth to cross. Outdoor running can become addictive, since the ever changing scenery keeps you engrossed and focused throughout your workout; it helps loosen all your muscles; and it is a sure way to keep your mind fresh and your brain active.

Where to Run Al Khoud City Run along the 10.4km paved perimeter of Al Khoud City.

Ministries Route Start this 3.1km flat route run from the Zawawi mosque and continue to the small roundabout in the ministries area.

Azaiba-Shatti If you’re looking for a long, slow run try this 25km track from the Azaiba Jetty to Shatti Al Qurum, near the Brazilian Embassy.

Average calories burned per hour (160 pounds): 606 Benefits • Aids in weight loss • Relieves depression and stress • Boosts cardiovascular health by making the heart pump stronger and encouraging the muscles to use oxygen more efficiently • Improves aerobic fitness • Helps to rev-up metabolism

CYCLING

HIKING

Cycling is something that many learned and enjoyed as children. So, why grow up?

Cycling engages your leg muscles and is easy on the joints. Moreover, it gives you a sense of freedom that does wonders for your mood and mind as you cover long distances and explore new places while getting a workout.

Hiking in Oman is not just the best way to enjoy the country’s beautiful mountains, but can also be an adventurous fitness activity. It gives your legs a tremendous strength workout and provides major cardiovascular benefits. Working-out in the open air where you get to hear the natural sounds of birds chirping, water splashing, and fresh breezes blowing around you, is also good for the mind.

Where to Ride Qurum Try the 40km path from Qurum to the Civil Aviation Club and back.

The Wave Ride along a 32km stretch of Al Mouj’s coast road to the far roundabout and back, and enjoy the amazing sea breezes and views.

Average calories burned per hour (160 pounds): 292 Benefits • Builds strength and muscle tone • Improves cardiovascular fitness • Reduces stress • Helps in joint protection • Easy on the legs, ankles, and joints

Where to Hike Muttrah-Riyam Try out the rocky, partly steep, but easy going 2.5km short hill and wadi walk from Riyam to Muttrah.

Average calories burned per hour(160 pounds): 438 Benefits • Lowers risk of heart diseases • Boosts bone density • Builds strength in glutes, quadriceps, hamstrings, and the muscles in your hips and lower legs • Strengthens core • Improve blood pressure and blood sugar level

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

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The Sultanate offers an array of options for all those who wish to use the nation’s natural resources to stay fit, healthy, and happy. In Muscat, there are breathtaking relief features like high green and brown mountain ranges and vast, spread-out stretches of clean beaches available as backdrops for fitness routines that will rejuvenate our minds, bodies, and souls. Outdoor exercise has been shown to improve mood and increase workout endurance, and it is totally free. So, get out of the gym and try one of these calorie-busting, mood improving workouts this week. -shruthi@timesofoman.com

OUTDOOR YOGA Break-out of the boring four-walled yoga studio and get your stretch and strength in a more natural surrounding. A yoga routine outdoors costs nothing and is completely revitalising, bringing you closer to the purpose of yoga, which is, achieving unity. Oman is enriched with scenic landscapes perfect for helping the body interact with all the natural forces around it.

Where to Yoga Qurum The public beaches of Qurum are a nice option, but for a less sandy experience go to the Qurum Rose Garden.

Seeb Naseem Garden is a tranquil retreat in the morning time when you can practice with virtually no one else around.

Average calories burned per hour (160 pounds): 183 Benefits • Replenish depleted energy • Increase flexibility and prevent muscle injuries • Improve meditation and clarity of mind • Opens up various sensations

BEACH VOLLEYBALL

GARDENING

Have you ever wondered why volleyball players have such well-toned bodies? Beach volleyball is a perfect way to take advantage of Muscat’s beautiful beaches and at the same time workout all your muscles. Apart from the hardcore physical workout you get, the game also helps you improve your handeye coordination and boosts mental agility.

Though most people think of it as a leisure activity, an hour of gardening can burn as many calories as jogging four miles. Get your hands dirty to give your mind and body a boost. It’s also great for the environment and could be economically advantageous if you grow your own vegetables or herbs.

Where to Play Gather a group of friends and head to any of the Muscat-area beaches to make your own game. There are often group pick-up games at the beach in Shatti Al Qurum and at Al Sawadi beach near Barka.

Average calories burned per hour(160 pounds): 544 Benefits • Tones and shapes the body • Increases metabolic rate • Builds muscular strength • Keeps the heart healthy • Builds agility, coordination, speed, and balance

Where to Garden Your own backyard.

Average calories burned per hour(160 pounds): 306 Benefits • Increases flexibility • Strengthen joints • Decrease blood pressure and cholesterol levels • Lowers your risk for diabetes • Slows osteoporosis

SWIMMING Oman is known all across the GCC for its beautiful beaches, and swimming is known for being one of the greatest forms of allround exercise. Pair the two and you have a winning combination. There are a lot of swimming pools in Oman, which are great for this low-impact exercise as well, but no man-made lagoon can make you feel the way you will swim in the deep blue ocean.

Where?

There are public beaches at Shatti Al Qurum, Azaiba beach, Al Sawadi, and near PDO, and memberships to all area hotels include access to their private beaches.

Average calories burned per hour(160 pounds): 423 Benefits • Full-body workout • Improves cardiovascular fitness • Improves stamina, suppleness, and strength • No-impact, so good for people with joint problems • Works legs, core, chest, back, shoulders, and hands

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

A Sweet

Surprise STORY FELICIA CAMPBELL • PHOTOGRAPHY VENECIO DATAN

L ATE ONE AFTERNOON I arrived at Al Bustan Palace for a meeting and was told that pastry chef, Amar Roy, was in the kitchen making a cheesecake. Visions of pillowy, thick white wedges topped with strawberry slices filled my mind. I was shocked when a plate arrived festooned with coils of ivory and dotted with vibrant splashes of pink and yellow; berries and micro-mint scattered around the edges. It looked more like a piece of contemporary art than a dessert.

Amar smiled coyly when he explained that it was ‘100 Degree Cheesecake’, a deconstructed ode to the classic dessert. It reminded me that although I love food, what I’m really craving when I choose to dine-out is the decadent element of surprise. – felicia@timesofoman.com

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

Try Amar’s Creations To to Al Bustan Palace, a Ritz-Carlton Hotel to enjoy Amar’s lavish dessert display at Beach Pavilion’s Friday Brunch or to sample sweets at Al Khiran Terrace Restaurant. Reservations: +968 2479 9666 Ext. 1010

Quick Fix Cheesecake If what you are really craving is a luscious piece of rich, creamy cheesecake, it is actually one of the easiest desserts you can make. With endless variations, from the crust to the toppings, start with this basic recipe and add your own twist.

Ingredients • 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese* • 1/2 cup sugar • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla • 2 eggs • Pre-made graham cracker crust** Instructions • Heat oven to 163 degrees Celsius.

• Mix cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Then add eggs and mix until blended.

• Bake for 40 minutes or until the centre is set.

• Refrigerate for three hours. Serve topped with fresh fruit or macerated strawberries.

Notes *Use flavoured cream cheeses to add a unique twist. **You can make your own cookie or graham cracker crumb crust by combining 1 1/4 cups crumbs and 1/3 cup melted butter and pressing the mixture into a pie dish before adding cheesecake and baking.

Recipe adapted from Kraft’s Philadelphia 3-step Cheesecake

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

SUITED & BOOTED STORY SHRUTHI NAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY ALI JANI

GO CONQUER Rugged and manly, these brown CAT Holton SB safety boots are more than a macho style, they provide real protection for motorcycle riders, construction crews, and oil riggers or with an anti-slip sole and metal toe.

Al Khamis Shoes; +968 2483 5129; alkhamis.biz OMR42

RIDE IN STYLE These American-style mid-boots from M&M USA are made from genuine buffalo leather, which just adds to their cool factor, which is also endorsed by the fact that they are only available at the Muscat Harley Davidson store.; +968 9599 2266; hdmuscat.com OMR88

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

HI WEEKLY

From the tribal era to modern times, men have been looking for footwear that is rough and tough and, whether they admit it or not, also shows off their sense of style and personality. Here in Oman, the cooler winter months give the gents an opportunity to express themselves with boots, from combat ready to polished and posh. —shruthi@timesofoman.com

CUFF YOUR JEANS

Having gained cult status for being an all-rounder, these manly, decidedly hipster Red Wings from Aldo are a casual wardrobe must-have for any modern man of style. Aldo shoes; Oman Avenues Mall; +968 2200 5420; omanavenuesmall.com OMR51

WORK IT OUT Make a classy statement donning this modish, sophisticated pair. The European-style lends a Bond-esq dose of daring to formal wear. Find them at Pedro in MGM; +968 9399 1033; muscatgrandmall.com OMR53

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LOVE OF THE GAME

S A I L I N G Mohsin Al Busaidi didn’t know a thing about sailing when he was selected for the Royal Navy of Oman Sailing Team back in 1999, but he seized the opportunity with both hands and spent years learning the nuances of his sport. A decade later, his hard work and dedication paid dividends when he became the first Arab to sail around the world STORY T.A. AMEERUDHEEN

I heard about sailing for the first time when I was working in the administrative department of Royal Navy of Oman. The Navy sailing team’s skipper was in search of talented Omanis who could be groomed into sailors. He asked me if I’d be interested in sailing. I said, yes, even though I didn’t know what sailing was at the time.

Up to that point, I had been under the impression that people only went to the sea for fishing. Sailing was a new term for me. But I soon fell in love with the sport. There was no smell of diesel or earpiercing sound of the boat engine. It was quite natural. The first week’s training at Musanna Naval Base brought out the best in me.

I soon set out on my first sailing trip from Musanna to Sur and spent three days in the sea on a Zigma 38 boat. I learned how to use the wind. It was the beginning of a long journey.

were called for screening. Major General (retired) Albert Whitley, who is currently the executive director of Oman Sail, talked about the importance of the trip and difficulties one would face during the long sail.

Half of the people backed out. A rigorous selection process followed in which 40 people spent one week each in desert and the sea. The team was further pruned to seven before going to the UK for training.

After the training, we sailed from London to Muscat, as part of the final selection process. It ended on a happy note for me, as I became the chosen one. It was the high

Early Challenges Though I was going to the sea every day, my family members were not fully convinced since I never brought fish home. “Where was the fish if you were in the sea whole day?” my mother would ask me. In order to make her happy, I began to buy fish from Muttrah market before returning home after training.

Biggest Moment in Your Career In 2007, the Ministry of Defence initiated the process to select an Omani sailor who would go on an around-the-world expedition prior to the launch of Oman Sail. Around 80 potential candidates from Army, Navy, Air Force, and Police

point in my career, and I still cherish those moments.

Journey of a Lifetime I began my around-the-world journey in Oman Sail’s Musandam boat along with Frenchmen Loik Gallon, Thierry Duprey Du Vorsent, and Britons Charles Darbyshire and Nick Houchin. We sailed over 24,000 nautical miles deep into the harsh and hostile Southern Ocean. We passed the legendary capes of Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope.

Since the start day on January 8, 2009, we endured storms, freezing conditions, and a diet of only freeze-dried food. I did it for my country.

Around 2,000 people arrived to receive me when we successfully returned to the Port Sultan Qaboos on March 25, 2009. I was overwhelmed when I saw my family after 76 gruelling days. I didn’t expect such a huge crowd. But the biggest surprise accolade was the medal I received from His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said.

Career Regrets OMAN SAIL Oman Sail was established with His Majesty’s blessing in 2008 to rekindle Oman’s maritime heritage, promote Oman around the world through sailing, and provide long-term learning opportunities for the youth of Oman. It conducts various training programmes, workshops, and sailing school sessions. omansail.com

I wanted to compete in Olympics, but age was not on my side.

Promoting Sailing in Oman I am currently in charge of the youth development programme of Oman Sail. I am confident of grooming young talents and making them winners in the global arena.

I teach them the lessons I learnt from participating in more than 65 international competitions. I believe in the adage, where there is a will, there is a way. So I tell them to work hard and bring glory to our country.— ameerudheen@timesofoman.com

Photography: Supplied

Falling for the Game

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

Have you tried the candy at Spun?

What was your favourite flavor?

Tell us about it on facebook.com/hiweekly

C A N D Y

STORY SALIM AL AFIFI PHOTOGRAPHY ALI JANI & SALIM AL AFIFI

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

HI WEEKLY

As I entered the first floor of the Oman Avenues Mall, an intensely sweet scent lured me into a colourful wonderland, a vibrant space filled with a menagerie of edible whimsy where I watch as sugar is transformed into art.

W O N D E R L A N D

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

T

he pleasure of eating candy is one thing, but watching the colourful, creative process of making the stuff takes this indulgence to new heights. That’s the idea behind Spun, a British confectionary store that was introduced here in Oman in October by Bin Mirza International (the same folks behind Second Cup, Nando’s, and Breadtalk).

The shop is designed as an open theatre, with windows overlooking the kitchen where customers can watch the magical candy-making process as it happens right in front of them.

Hani Mirza, Partner and Managing Director at BMI, and his wife Jannat Moosa, the Marketing Director, were inspired to buy the franchise after looking for a gift for their third child. They discovered Spun stores and fell in love with the concept of crafting personalised candies featuring playful images, names, and intimate messages as affordable, thoughtful gifts.

The process of candy making itself is nothing short of performance art, so finding a way to give customers a peek at the craftsmanship behind the novelties

became almost as important to the business as the candy itself.

Making these sweets requires only a few ingredients: water, glucose, natural food colourings, fruity flavourings, and, of course, sugar. The water is mixed with glucose and sugar and then brought to a boil. The mixture boils and thickens for an hour before the flavours and food colourings are added. The sticky blend is spread out over a granite table where it is cut and shaped into thin sheets. The sheets cool on a stainless table and when it is time to create the intricately detailed final candies, they are returned to a hot surface to make them pliable enough to be manipulated. The candy makers build each candy using thin layers upon layers of coloured sugar to form the requested letter or symbol. It is then rolled and stretched over and over again to make long, thin ropes of hard candy, the designs shrinking as the rope stretches, until they reach their final, miniature size. (For me, this was the most visually fascinating step in the whole process). Finally, the long ropes of hard candy are chopped into bite-sized pieces and put in jars for customers to munch on.

The shop has added distinctly Omani touches to their confections, creating a special “Oman Blend” featuring iconic

Muscati symbols like the Riyam park incense burner, the Al Alam Palace, Omani flags, and even the orange and white taxi cabs. They’re also introducing local flavours like rosewater and frankincense.

It isn’t all about aesthetics or taste either, the quality of all the ingredients is the number one priority. All the handmade candies are all-natural, vegetarian, and gluten-free as well.

Seeing candy makers working is mesmerising, and not as easy as it might look. Candy masters perfect their skills through dedication and commitment, physical strength, and a whole lot of practice. For those who are interested in learning the candy-making process, Spun offers classes at the shop, and they have future plans to develop school trips to teach students about the science of confectionary.

From the colour to the playful details to the sweet taste, hard candies appeal to all ages everywhere, so it’s no surprise that this shop is quickly earning the loyalty of Muscat residents who come in for jars of the vibrant pre-mixed candy blends, to place custom orders, or simply to experience the childlike sense of wonder that is in ready supply in places like this.

—salim@timesofoman.com

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

THE SHOP HAS ADDED DISTINCTLY OMANI TOUCHES TO THEIR CONFECTIONS: ICONIC MUSCATI SYMBOLS LIKE THE RIYAM PARK INCENSE BURNER, THE AL ALAM PALACE, OMANI FLAGS, AND EVEN THE ORANGE AND WHITE TAXI CABS.

Spun Candy Avenues Mall, 1st Floor Ghubra +968 2206 0066 spun-candy.com Hours: Weekdays 10am-11pm Weekends 10am-12am Candy Pricing: Hard Rock Candy 50g Bag OMR 0.900 Hard Rock Candy 100g Bag OMR 1.500 Candy Jar Small 100g OMR 2.000 Candy Jar Large 200g OMR 3.500 Hard Rock Candy Bulk 1Kg OMR 15.000

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

BE A GYMNAST, PAR EXCELLENCE STORY T.A. AMEERUDHEEN

Despite its global prominence, gymnastics hasn’t found a foothold in Oman so far. But the sport, known for gracious body movements, is gradually gaining in popularity, thanks to the launch of Muscat Gymnastics, the first private training centre in the Sultanate.

PHOTOGRAPHY SALIM AL AFIFI

C

ome on, it’s time for the warm-up routine.”

The clarion call from head coach Ionela Yammine prompted the girls into action.

Clad in pink leotards and black leggings, they stepped onto the cushioned mats barefoot and began to roll heads, circle shoulders, swing arms, twist trunks. Their stretches were followed by some light cardio— running, jumping, and skipping. They continued, alternating stretching exercises with flexibility training and kicks, before getting into their gymnastics routine.

The 20-minute strenuous warmup session hadn’t made the girls lethargic, they looked alert and strong as they began to sharpen their skills with a rotation through beams, bars, floor, and a vaulting table. After an hour, they wound-up with conditioning exercises for core, arms, and leg muscles.

Welcome to Muscat Gymnastics, the only private gymnastics centre in Oman. Launched in 2015 under the guidance of former Romanian elite gymnast Ionela Yammime, the centre has more than 300 children from 42 different countries in its rolls now.

Ionela believes gymnastics forms the base of all physical activities and children stand to gain a lot by mastering it. “It helps improve physical ability, psychological skills, focus and coordination. It also makes them responsible and independent.”

The centre springs to life on weekdays and Saturdays. It is quite interesting to watch toddlers between two and four years old in action — forming circles, jumping on trampolines, playing games, and making balancing movements — accompanied by their parents.

“We have three programmes for children between 2 to 14 years.

The pre-school plan involves both the child and parent, while the recreational level teaches advanced skills.

The competitive programme caters to the needs of children with good potential. Besides we have the services of experienced Romanian coaches Alexandra Gherorghica and Andreea Neagu,” explained Ionela.

Hailing from Romania, which is considered to be a cradle of gymnastics, Ionela fell for the sport when she was just six years old. She wore reading glasses at that time, and it gave her huge trouble during a selection trial to the regional team.

Selectors ignored her but she persisted. Her efforts paid-off, and she went on to become an elite gymnast in Romania.

“My passion for the sport drove me to open the first gymnastics club in Oman. The fun-filled activity will help you lead a healthy life,” she said. “Besides, there is a huge demand for gymnastics in Oman. Many parents who move to Oman had been complaining about the lack of practising facilities, but not anymore.”

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The state-of-the-art facility has high quality uneven bars, beams, floor, vaulting tables, springboard, trampolines, and several safety mats besides mini rings and mini parallel bars for the toddlers, all approved by the International Gymnastics Federation.

Though injury worries stop many parents from sending their children to the train, Ionela feels that accidents happen when children perform without adequate preparation.

“Coaches should assess children’s abilities before putting them through exercises. That is why we insist that children perform certain skills until they are strong enough to move forward.”

Ionela believes that anyone with strength, flexibility, and confidence can become a gymnast, but everyone must start at the correct level, and they can train and progress from there. “Our preliminary screening assesses their skills.” According to Ionela, children need one to two years to be able to figure in competitions. “It all depends on their ability and enthusiasm.”

With many children graduating to the competitive programme, the centre has already been able to make its mark in international competitions, winning 21 medals last year in events held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. And Ionela hopes to see her wards win even more laurels in the coming year in

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international competitions.

“Like any coach, I wish to see my children winning medals in international competitions. Winning a medal in Olympics is a dream, and I think it is not impossible. I would be proud if it is an Omani girl,” she said.

But some might wonder if an Olympic dream is possible in a country without established or official supporters to help advance them. “It is true that Oman doesn’t have an association to promote the sport, but we are in contact with the Ministry of Sports and I hope they will help us in promoting it,” Ionela said.

Whether winning competitions or practicing for fun and fitness, the children themselves all agreed that gymnastics enriches their lives. “It makes me happy when I flip around the bars,” said Ethaar Al Bahlani, a grade fifth student. “I train twice a week to improve my confidence level.”

Another talented gymnast Sara Al Jabri, who won the allround title in the under-10 category in a competition in Dubai, felt that gymnastics made her fearless. “I am now confident of conquering challenges with minimal assistance,” she said.

For Tala Yarvas, a grade seventh student, gymnastics has become part of her life. “My dream is to become the best gymnast in the world and I will try to realise it.”

—ameerudheen@timesofoman.com

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

PROGRAMMES PRE-SCHOOL Designed for children between 2 years old and 4 years old, the programme aims to promote body awareness and coordination.

•Toddler Gym (two years old): Each session is for 45 minutes with parents’ participation. Children will do activities such as circle time, jumping on trampolines, balancing, tumbling, games, music and movement and are introduced to a variety of gymnastics stations.

•Toddler Gym (three years old): Each session is for 45 minutes with parents’ participation. Children will participate in basic tumbling and pre-school apparatus work that will develop agility, coordination, flexibility, muscle strength, and motor skills.

•Kinder Gym (four years old): Each session is for one hour without parent participation. The programme explores basic gymnastics on all Olympic events including the trampoline as well as refining listening and cooperative skills.

RECREATIONAL Girls aged five years and above can join the programme. It is a combination of fun activities and confidence building activities.

The programme is divided into three categories.

•Beginners (1 hour class): Training will focus on core strength, arm strength, and the coordination necessary to learn forward rolls, backward rolls, handstands, and cartwheels – the fundamental building blocks of almost all gymnastics skills.

•Intermediate (1 hour class): It is a continuation of Beginners level. Children continue to build strength and gain flexibility.

Children can join Competitive Programme after competing this programme.

COMPETITIVE Muscat Gymnastics follows the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Programme for girls. Gymnasts train few times every week and progress at their own pace from one level to another. Every year gymnasts in this programme will get opportunity to compete in gymnastics meets in the GCC region. This programme has 10 levels.

FEES Toddler 2 & 3 years old (45 minutes class) OMR72/12 weeks term – 1 lesson per week Kinder 4 years old (60 minutes class) OMR78/12 weeks term – 1 lesson per week OMR150/12 weeks – 2 lessons per week

DRESS CODE Girls aged 5 and above should wear club leotard and leggings, while boys may wear shorts and club T-shirt

Recreational 5-12 years old (60 minutes class) OMR78/12 weeks term – 1 lesson per week OMR150/12 weeks – 2 lessons per week Competitive 7-12 years old (60 minutes class) OMR150 /12 weeks term: 2 lessons per week OMR216/12 weeks term: 3 lessons per week Yearly Registration Fee OMR10 (club t-shirt included) Club Gymnastics Kit (Leotard and Leggings) OMR25 Competition Fees are paid separately, and vary depending on each competition.

Contact Muscat Gymnastics Seeb – Al Mawaleh (behind Holiday Inn Hotel) Phone: +968 9920 5250 muscatgymnastics.com

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Huawei Mate 8: Huawei crossed 100mn shipment worldwide. An event was organised in Muscat to celebrate this achievement. Huawei also showcased the exclusive Huawei Mate 8 to its media club members in the event held at Qurum Beach Hotel.

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Students and faculty from William & Mary’s Oman study abroad course in Muscat. - Photos Jun Estrada

VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

New Year’s Eve Party at Al Falaj Hotel Poolside.

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VOLUME 10 ISSUE 4 JANUARY 22, 2016

SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY Fill empty cells with the numbers 1 to 9, so that each number appears once in each row, column, and area.

Level | Easy

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