OutdoorUAE - February 2014

Price: 10 DHS

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The Wahiba Challenge

‘like’ us on Facebook.com/OutdoorUAE

Desert Crossing Adventure

Globetrotting aboard

the mighty Magirus Off-road driving tips Himalayan hike on paws

A new look at mountain living Andermatt, Switzerland

Gear alert!

Optrix

PhotoProX

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Issue 38, February 2014

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

On the cover: Wahiba Challenge Photo by: Darryl MacDonald Managing Editor Daniel Birkhofer Editors Glaiza Seguia, Tara Atkinson Designer Oybek Daniyarov 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 Dubai Printing Press P.O. Box: 6820, Dubai, UAE Tel: 04-3370344

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Statistically, by the time you read this editorial, 80% of you have already failed to stick to your New Year’s resolutions. That’s the bad news. The good news is why do you think we are printing this magazine? Well, to keep you going throughout the whole year, of course! Last month’s issue got you racing on two wheels, this month we bring you to the great outdoors on four wheels. Our off-road theme fits this gorgeous season perfectly and if there ever was a time to get out and live for a couple of days in your car exploring and experiencing the real Middle East, it is now.

With another Dubai Shopping Festival closing, I hope you got your hands on the great deals for your hobbies. Watersports are coming out from hibernation and I witnessed more and more SUPs dotting the horizon in the morning around Sunset Beach and JBR in Dubai. Calm seas of coastal areas like Fujairah and Sharjah offer the perfect spots for camping, just remember to bring a jumper (and beanie and a scarf) overnight. And a bikini with loads of sunscreen when riding dunes on bikes, bodyboards or cardboards (I really don’t know what you are into).

This month, come see us at the RAK Half Marathon on Valentine’s Day. So, before you get glued to the pages of this issue, repeat after me: “This year, I will live every day to the fullest. I will not say no to adventure, challenge or a cook-out. I will buy OutdoorUAE magazine every month because I love the outdoors!”

Linda

© 2014 Outdoor UAE FZE Issue 38 February 2014

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BETWEEN THE LINES

Daniel Birkhofer Founder and Editor in Chief daniel@outdooruae.com

Jane Mesina Administration jane@outdooruae.com

Linda Turcerova Sales and Marketing linda@outdooruae.com

Oybek Daniyarov Graphics & Programming oybek@outdooruae.com

Glaiza Seguia Editor glaiza@outdooruae.com

Tara Atkinson Travel Editor tara@outdooruae.com

Get to us on Facebook!

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.

Kit Belen Our fishing pro

Pete Aldwinckle Climber and all-round adventure seeker

Gordon T Smith Desert Diver and wannabe Marine Biologist

Mike Nott The 4x4 expert

John Basson Moto/ATV and all round adventure seeker

Tori Leckie Writer, runner, blogger and adventurer.

Sandy Joy Rubin Pilates and yoga expert and general thrill seeking move-aholic

Darryl MacDonald Photographer, journalist, climbing and hiking junkie currently living in Oman.

Ian Ganderton Kayaker, climber, mountainbiker and snowboarder. Enthusiastic jack of all trades, master of none.

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.

WHEN YOU’RE DONE READING, PLEASE RECYCLE!

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EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS

WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? CONTACT US! contact@outdooruae.com

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CONTENTS 24 HIMALAYAN DOG TREK

20 DOSC SAILING EVENTS

EVERY ISSUE

51 SKATE SPOTS

05 BEST SHOTS 06 EVENTS CALENDAR 38 PRODUCTS 48 PEOPLE 60 DIRECTORY

EVENT REVIEWS & REPORTS 13 OFF-ROAD DRIVING COURSE 14 STAND UP FOR RAELYN 22 WADI ADVENTURE RACE 5

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE 28 ANDERMATT, SWITZERLAND 26 EXPAT EXPLORERS IN NEW ZEALAND 30 VISITING A HIPPIE COMMUNE

LIFESTYLE 35 HABITUALLY HEALTHY

OUR EXPERTS 44 WAHIBA CHALLENGE – MARINA BRUCE 46 TOO FAST – JOHN BASSON

TIPS + TRICKS 57 SPANGLED EMPEROR – KIT BELEN 51 TRAIL RUNNING TIPS 52 DUBAI GARDEN CENTRE 44 WAHIBA CHALLENGE 2014

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32 GLOBETROTTERS IN THE UAE

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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: Mario Cardenas, Herbert Iponla and Paul King. Well done!

To submit your entries, simply email us at competitions@ outdooruae.com with the subject “Best Shots.”

Mario Cardenas

Sky Dive Dubai. This photo was taken last December during the Accuracy Landing competition.

WINNER!

WINNER!

Herbert Iponla

Watching ATV riders doing their tricks is another good reason why you want to go to the Hatta-Oman border.

Editor’s note: We strongly encourage people to wear helmet and protective gear when doing outdoor sports.

The daredevils in the photo show how NOT to do it.

Paul King

Photo of Phoebe King UAE National Champion and World Wakeboard Association World Champion 2013 ripping at Al Forsan.

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EVENTS CALENDAR Stay up-to-date with the latest events

RAK Half Marathon 2014

February 14, 7:00am, Manar Mall, Ras Al Khaimah

Featured Event

Feel the love at the world’s fastest and annual half-marathon! The coming edition of the RAK Half Marathon promises fast times and fierce contests with the prospect of more records in both men’s and women’s competitions. The Half Marathon and the Team Relay Challenge will start and finish at the same place just about opposite to the City Hotel and at the end of the Manar Mall car park next to the Carrefour sign. Both the events will run on the same route. OutdoorUAE is one of official supporters of the RAK Half Marathon. For more information, visit www.rakmarathon.org.

Dubai Tour 2014 February 5 to 8

The inaugural Dubai Tour is the new professional cycling race that will open the UCI Asia Tour. In four different stages across the UAE, the best teams and the tops cyclists in the world including Rui Costa and Mark Cavendish will offer the amazing competition and a magnificent showcase of the emirate.

Dubai Tour is organised by Dubai Sports Council in partnership with RCS Sport.

For more information, www.dubaitour.com.

22nd Salomon Wadi Bih Run 2014 February 7, 6:00am, Golden Tulip Hotel, Dibba, Oman

Held every year since 1993, the Wadi Bih Run is the oldest regular expatriate sporting event in the UAE. The run is for teams of five runners, with each runner completing about 15km to give a total distance of about 72km. Hardy individuals can run the entire distance solo or do a shortened route (approximate distance will be a minimum of 50km) called solo canyon. The route for the run follows asphalt roads and graded gravel tracks through the spectacular Hajar mountains and is a therapeutic experience to escape the urban mayhem. For more information, visit www.wadibih.com.

2XU Triathlon Championships Series Race 2 of 3 Season 13/14 February 7, 7:00am, Al Mamzar, Dubai

The calm waters in the Mamzar lagoon, closed roads and a designated running track will ensure a safe and speedy race for all. Three distances are on offer, the Super Sprint (300/375m swim, 24km bike and 5km run ), Sprint (750m, 24km bike and 5km run) and Olympic (1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run).

This event is open for all ages and abilities and relay teams of two and three people are welcome. This event is part of the Go Sports Super Series. For more information, visit www.supersportsdubai.com.

GIANT Duathlon Series - Race 5 February 8, 10:00am, The Sevens Stadium

The Giant Bicycles Duathlon Series is aimed at triathletes, duathletes, cyclists, runners and fitness enthusiasts, of all ages and abilities. Kids, tweens and teens are welcome too as the courses are traffic-friendly, providing the greatest degree of safety for all competitors. The format for each race is run-bike-run and is be open to individual athletes and teams of two.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/groups/duathlonseriesuae.

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EVENTS CALENDAR Dubai Roadster’s Coast to Coast Challenge – Spring 2014 February 14, 5:30am, Nad al Sheba Cycle Park

The 216km cycling event from the Dubai coast to the Al Aqah Beach Hotel and Resort on the North Coast of Fujairah will undoubtedly be a challenge and a wonderful day out on the roads of the UAE. Note that entrants need a certain level of fitness to take part due to the distance and the amount of climbing. It is also important to emphasize that this ride is a group ride and not a race. The ride will leave from the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park promptly so make sure to give yourself plenty of time to get organised beforehand. For more information, visit www.dubairoadsters.com.

Musandam Adventure Race 2014 February 21, 5:00am, Khor Najd, Oman

This adventure race, probably the toughest one-day event of this nature in the region, starts and finishes in Khor Najd, completing a loop of the eastern side of the Musandam Peninsula by kayak, foot and bike. Competitors will be entirely self-sufficient in all things; there will be no checkpoints and no assistance along the route (not even rescue), however, a dhow will shadow the kayakers and your car will shadow your riders. For more information, contact Mike at michaelnott@hotmail.com.

The Beast Triathlon

February 21, 7:00am, Wadi Adventure, Al Ain Possibly the hardest Sprint distance triathlon in the world with over 900m of vertical gain and a gruelling run to finish the Jebel Hafeet provides a true challenge. The race is open to competitors 16 years and older. All racers must wear helmets at all times during the cycle leg. For more information, contact race@wadiadventure.ae.

Wild Wadi’s Swim Burj Al Arab 2014 February 21, 8:00am, Burj Al Arab Beach

The Swim Burj Al Arab returns! The thrilling swim race around one of the UAE’s most iconic landmarks is now a staple in the Dubai sports calendar. Participants from all over the world will take part in the 800m and now additionally a 1,600m swim organised by Wild Wadi in aid of Médecins Sans Frontières. Funds raised through this event will be used by MSF to provide medical aid to those most in need around the world. For more information, www.swim.msf-me.org.

Urban Ultra Extreme 3 February 27, 3:00pm, Dubai

Get ready for this extreme footrace. It is the perfect introduction to multi-stage running, this 140km totally self-supported stage race will take you through rocky mountain terrain and over the spectacular sand dunes of the UAE. There will be plenty of experienced ultra-runners to offer advice and it is a great chance to test out your gear for the coming season of multi-stage races! It might just get you hooked enough to sign up for longer one. For more information, visit www.urbanultra.com.

Tri Yas

February 28, 2:00pm, Yas Marina Circuit The region’s only day/night triathlon is back! Now in its fourth year, TriYAS has become one of the favourite first-timer triathlons on the calendar. As in previous years, all swim waves start in daylight progressing to runners completing the 5km or 10km marina run under the full floodlights of the Formula 1 circuit. Categories for 2014 include the Junior Duathlon as well as the Sprint and Olympic individual and team relays distances; there’s a race option for everyone! For more information, visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com.

This is just a selection of the events taking place this month, for more upcoming events visit: www.outdooruae.com/event

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NEWS + COMMUNITY

Maria Conceicao

set to run 7 ultramarathons on 7 continents in 7 weeks The founder of the Maria Cristina Foundation (MCF), who became the first Portuguese woman to summit the Everest earlier this year, has set her sights on a double Guinness World Record attempt in 2014. Maria Conceicao has been training for the past six months to run one of the world’s toughest endurance races – seven fulldistance 50km ultramarathons, to be run on each of the seven continents, across seven weeks. First of the seven events commenced in Antarctica last month.

“My aim is simple – to raise 1 million USD and draw global attention to the foundation’s pioneering work, which has been to challenge the class system and to break the vicious cycle of poverty in Bangladesh by helping the impoverished to live up to their maximum potential. Running these seven ultramarathons is going to be the toughest challenge I have ever taken on, but that is nothing compared to the daily struggle our kids face on the streets of Dhaka,” she said.

777 Ultramarathon Route Jan 26 Feb 2 Feb 7 Feb 16 Feb 23 Mar 2 Mar 15

- Antarctica - South America - Asia - Europe - Australia - North America - Africa

“For the past nine years, MCF has nurtured and fostered hundreds of young boys and girls who have shown tremendous potential to pursue higher education. I would like to secure educational scholarships and employment opportunities worldwide, to formulate a sustainable long-term partnership with corporations and educational bodies. The foundation has placed 35 young adults in jobs in the UAE and Oman since 2005, and a number of young students are currently studying in the UAE under the patronage of HH Sheikh Nayhan Bin Mubarak Al Nayhan. Currently, we have 529 dwellers registered under our two flagship programs, known as “Butterflies” and “Catalysts” projects waiting for scholarships,

educational support, or employment opportunities in Bangladesh and abroad.”

The 777 Challenge is a formidable undertaking. Maria will run a full ultramarathon every weekend for seven weeks, on each of the seven continents of the world, starting with Antarctica in January, then proceeding to South America, Asia, Europe, and Australia in February, and on to North America and Africa in March. Ziyad Rahim, Maria Conceicao’s mentor, has been responsible for all the logistical arrangements of the challenge.

The 777 Challenge is being supported by Etihad Airways, NAMA, Right Bite and Up and Running Sports Medical Centre.

Each race is an official and fully sanctioned marathon recognised by the Guinness World Records organisation, and Maria has her sights set on claiming not one but two such records. One: the fastest time to complete an ultramarathon on each continent (female), and two: the fastest aggregate time to complete an ultramarathon on each continent (female).

Maria has summited Mount Everest, trekked to the North Pole, summited Aconcagua and Kilimanjaro, and climbed Denali in support of her charity, amongst many others.

racing the skiers and snowboarders shredding the powder below; screaming is optional.

The zip line is offered as an added ride with the PowerPass ticket and enables guests to enjoy an exhilarating day with full access to the Snow Park, Zorbing, Mountain Thriller ride, unlimited chairlift rides and a snow penguin encounter or skiing option. Priced at 300 AED, the PowerPass now also includes the Snow Bullet and promises a great experience.

The Snow Bullet can also be availed on its own at 150 AED for two runs. Open to all, the Snow Bullet can be enjoyed by guests over the age of eight years old, weighing between

30-125kg and above 1.20m in height.

“Ski Dubai is an icon in the region. We are always delivering and offering unrivaled experiences whether it is skiing or snowboarding, learning about snow penguins and their habitat, or just simply enjoying sub-zero temperatures. We are always thinking and exploring new ways to continue delivering the promise of doing something different from the rest.

We thought why not do something very unique and get to soar over Ski Dubai from an angle you’ve never seen before,” said Ski Dubai Marketing Manager Sherif Hashem.

For more information, visit: www.skidxb.com.

Zip it!

Words By: Glaiza Seguia Photo By: Jung Domingo

Winter is literally at full speed in Ski Dubai. This January, the regions’ biggest indoor ski resort located inside the Mall of the Emirates launched a new fun ride for all piste prowlers out there, the Snow Bullet.

This state-of-the-art dual track zip line takes riders 16m off the ground and propels them 150m across the snowy slopes. Riders will catch a chairlift to the Avalanche Café and from there they will be securely strapped on for a swift ride down to the hill’s base.

OutdoorUAE got to try out the Snow Bullet and after a short briefing, reading the safety terms, weighing in and outfitting of helmet and harness, we were ready to roll, or in this case, zip. The Snow Bullet lets riders experience Ski Dubai from a different viewpoint with the frosty air reddening your cheeks and

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‫م�سابقة جمعية الإمارات للغو�ص للت�سوير ال�سينمائي والفوتوغرايف حتت املاء‬

DIGITAL ONLINE 2014 AWARDS EDA’S UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILM COMPETITION | WWW.EMIRATESDIVING.COM PHOTO BY ©SIMONE CAPRODOSSI – WWW.SCAPRODOSSIPHOTO.COM 1st Place Wide Angle (PRO) Digital Online 2013

Digital Online 2014 Contest Rules EDA’s Underwater Photography and Film Competition CONTEST OPENS FOR SUBMISSIONS: Wednesday, 1st January 2014

CONTEST SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Wednesday, 30th April 2014 @ Midnight

Digital Online is open to UAE Nationals and all people living in the UAE under a valid Residence Visa and of any diving qualification with a valid EDA membership status.

DIGITAL ONLINE • Submit underwater photos and/or video for the 2013 categories, entering them in the Local section (UAE and Musandam) or International section (taken anywhere in the world).

• Winners choose their own prizes.

• Open to all photographers and videographers with a valid EDA membership status. Must renew EDA membership in order to take part.

PHOTOGRAPHY SECTIONS Photographers will be classified into DSLR and compact camera sections. Please state the camera used when entering your submissions.

DSLR SECTION: Digital SLR camera users with or without external strobes.

COMPACT CAMERA SECTION: Point and shoot photographers only (compact cameras).

Photographers can enter one photo into each category. You must choose either the DSLR or the compact camera section; you cannot enter both.

PHOTOGRAPHY CATEGORIES 1. MACRO LOCAL: UAE and Musandam 2. MACRO INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.

Definition: Photographs taken with close upequipment, portraying underwater flora and/ or fauna. The photographer may not crop the original more than 20%. The original image may be requested.

3. WIDEANGLE LOCAL: UAE and Musandam.

4. WIDEANGLE INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.

Definition: Photographs taken with a wideangle lens (or adapters that provide an equal field-of-view), with or without human presence, portraying the natural beauty of the underwater environment.

EXHIBITION AND AWARD CEREMONY:

| 19:00-22:00 | Venue TBA Wednesday, 28 May 2014 UAE 5. MARINE LIFE PORTRAIT LOCAL: and Musandam.

6. MARINE LIFE PORTRAIT INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.

Definition: A portrait shot of an animal underwater such as a fish, shark, octopus, marine bird, etc. focusing on one subject. It could be a full body shot, or focus just on face/head. th

VIDEO CATEGORY 1. LIFE UNDERWATER LOCAL: UAE and Musandam.

2. LIFE UNDERWATER INTERNATIONAL: Taken anywhere in the world.

Definition: Show off your creative editing skills showcasing life underwater. Macro, wide angle, wreck, etc are allowed. Maximum duration including credits: 5 minutes.

REGISTRATION AND IMAGE UPLOAD • Registration and submission is open from Wednesday, 1st January 2014 and the deadline is on Wednesday, 30th April 2014, at midnight.

Registration and submissions to Digital Online is free.

• The participant must be a UAE Resident and an active EDA member. To enter, send details, images and film via email to photo@emiratesdiving. com with the following information: - Full Name - EDA Membership Number - Camera Model - Mention where/dive site photos were taken • Images must be submitted by email as high resolution jpeg files for final exhibition print purposes.

• File names should include photographer’s name and the category. (eg. JSmith-M.jpg, JSmith-WA. jpg and JSmith-MLP).

• Video submissions must be in mp4 format and sent via Yousendit or Dropbox with file name of the Videographer.

• You will receive an email to confirm your registration and image/video upload. If you do not receive one within 24 hours, your email may not have come through and you may need to try again unless it has passed the deadline.

For more information, visit www.emiratesdiving.com.

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Local off-road clubs

Joining groups is a great way for starters to learn the basics of off-roading and for enthusiasts to meet new driving buddies or explore new trails.

UAE Off-roaders is a family-oriented club formed in Abu Dhabi on September 2009 with the purpose of promoting four wheel driving, dune bashing and exploring the gorgeous desert, mountains, wadis and landscapes of the UAE. Members range from rookie to the very experienced. To cater members, a variety of trips are organised and posted on the website on a weekly basis to suit all levels of competence, starting from rookie runs to advanced trips, as well as organised camping and wadi or mountain exploration trips. The club will provide hands-on technical and instructional training and information of how to drive safely in the sand, raising your confidence level and confidence in your vehicle’s capabilities.

The Al-Ain based off-roading club that offers accessible adventures in the beautiful red dunes around the UAE’s garden city. Established in October 2012 by a group of experienced offroad drivers, the club aim to cater to drivers of all levels, offering a range of trips from easy introductory drives to family trips, advanced sand driving and distance overlanding adventures. As well as driver training, Oasis Offroad is also able to support you by offering advice on cars and equipment. To become part of the Oasis Offroad community please join one of the trips listed on our forum.

Offroadbug is a UAE-based social club that provides information to outdoor enthusiasts, negotiates deals for members and organises outdoor experiences. They have organised many experiences over the past year that covered both the UAE and Oman. Dune bashing, hiking, camping, scuba diving and more. The membership is a friend of friend structure in order to maintain a fit between the different members.

However, the content is publicly available for everyone to enjoy. The founding members are: Tarek El Awji, Yazan Al Taher and Mehran Dawood. Contact Offroad Bug at 0504916614.

www.oasis-offroadforum.com/ www.facebook.com/OasisOffroad

www.offroadbug.com www.facebook.com/offroadbug instagram.com/offroad_bug

Almost 4x4 Off-Road Club is a group of off-roaders from different nationalities and ages, more than 2,000 drivers, with the same passion for off-roading.

Jeep Wrangler JK Fun Club in UAE, the largest and most active online Jeep club in the Middle East, is a community based in Dubai to meet fellow jeepers and create a knowledge share space. This group belongs to the Jeep enthusiast who wants to share the latest technology and show off your skills and your sweet ride! Feel free to contribute tips on how you are preparing your Jeep for the season: safety ideas, parts, accessories, routes, times, meet-ups, software updates, reviews, etc. Group members are welcome at all levels; it’s free to join and have fun. This community was originally created by Suffian Al Mebayed, broadcast communication engineer, Jeep enthusiast and photographer.

www.uaeoffroaders.com

ME4x4 is not the largest or most well known off-road club in the UAE; there are many more that can claim to be these. But what ME4x4 does have is a wealth of experience that few can probably match. Established in 1997, it has conducted week long trips through the Omani Empty Quarter and into Yemen, it has opened up a plethora of new routes in both the UAE and Oman and its main aim is to go to those places that few, if any, others go. However, despite these laudable aims, the club does not lose sight of the need to induct newcomers to the pleasures of off road driving; after all, we must all start somewhere. www.me4x4.com

Established in UAE, the drivers are composed of different expertise with over 22 years in off-roading, mechanical, communication and navigation skills or even just beginners. The club strongly focuses on family values, and welcome and encourage new members. To join the club, trips or events register in the website. www.almost4x4.com www.facebook.com/ almost4x4.club

www.facebook.com/ groups/100403660018938

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AD4x4 was founded in the summer of 2006 by off-road enthusiasts creating a unique club with the mission to provide a meeting point for all addicted to the desert driving. The club is proud to serve the entire bandwidth of nationalities working and living in the United Arab Emirates by accompanying them to the beauty of the desert. They welcome all types of four-wheel drive vehicles and hold regular social activities, day trips, night-drives, early-birds, as well as weekend camping trips.

Every trip is rated so that you will know what to expect.

It’s no secret that one of the most inspirational of material things in this country is the 4x4, aka the off-road vehicle, referred to in the motor trade as the SUV. For many, you have not “arrived” if you do not own one of these babes. Yet the vast majority of these ubiquitous vehicles have barely touched sand of any variety.

www.ad4x4.com/club www.facebook.com/ groups/20165410464

The group organises regular desert clean-up drives, bringing together volunteers who literally pick the desert clean of litter. The gang has also organised desert parties and family fun days. The idea being to introduce neophytes to the pleasures the great outdoors has to offer.

*This list is just a fraction of the clubs and groups out there. If you want to list your club or group with us, visit our website or send us an email: listing@outdooruae.com.

A small but growing number of 4x4 owners, however, own them because they value their utility above all else. They have a passion for the desert, its exploration and its conquest, of the kind that may be seen in alpinists and deep-sea divers. One band of such creatures regularly sallies forth into the wild sandy yonder under the collective banner of Emarat 4x4. This diverse group of dedicated (some say they should be committed!) enthusiasts has been crisscrossing the sands of the Emirates for many years in their quest for off-road nirvana. On any given Friday, its members will be out and about bashing daunting dunes, traversing inhospitable swathes of desert, or taking it a bit easy by leading nervous “newbies” on less-demanding treks in a process of initiation into the dark(ish) art of offroading.

www.emarat4x4.com www.facebook.com/groups/19756937024/

ZX-10r

WE’RE Rolling oUT nEW 2014 PRodUcTs 800 LIBERTY kawasaki@liberty.ae

ACTIVITY REPORT

Good, better, best Making sure you pick the right route for your ride Words + Photos By: Sean James

Why is the Arabian Peninsula so good for mountain biking? The UAE and Oman are definitely, not even arguably, world class. Many residents take it for granted. Many don’t even know it exists.

Riding through deserts, palm plantations, mountains overlooking the twinkling sea, camels looking up at us curiously, locals who pay for your drinks when you stop in a village and not one “No Cycling” sign anywhere.

Mountain biking has been kept as a bit of a secret from overseas cyclist. However you would struggle to find many places that equal the variety and distinctiveness of the UAE. I’ve even seen pictures of heavenly trails in the mountains of Saudi Arabia and Yemen that look perfect for riding. If only it was easier to get there. If the oil ever runs out, adventure tourism will step in to prop up the UAE and those owning bike shops will be sitting on a gold mine.

So why are the trails so good? Emiratis were until recently nomadic people and travelled the country every year on foot. The trails and paths they forged through the mountains, wadis and desert now form an excellent facility for adventure sports such as mountain biking.

As an adventure capital to base oneself, Dubai is up there. Unlike other countries where there are numerous restrictions for bikers, the UAE is refreshingly relaxed. Respect for the individual and others is key in the UAE and no one will growl at you for simply mountain biking, even on private land. Quite the opposite, a recent trip to Oman, proved too much for us with the constant waving children and car horns that passed us. If you’ve visited North Africa or other Middle Eastern countries, you are in for a surprise with the UAE. At a glance, most would consider the Middle East not safe. In the UAE countryside, the behaviour is bizarre. On every ride without exception, and I ride a lot, I have encountered curious local drivers who on the one hand insist on driving like Sebastian Vettel on the blacktop will pull over on the trails and offer you water, food and ask where you are from.

So where are the best places to ride in the Make sure the abilities of your team match the route you are intending to do. Too many misadventures will make those smiles vanish quickly.

The UAE is just waiting to be explored. New tracks appear and disappear every year as the road builders move throughout the land.

UAE? There are a number of geographical areas, each with its own unique characteristics.

Showka and the Wadi Al Helo area is lower lying with rolling farm tracks through wadis that are never too steep. Jebel Yibir and the Tawyeen area are much steeper. Around RAK, there is seemingly a lot of potential, but the wadis are nearly all dead ends so out and backs are popular. Although the new road up to Jebel Jais has opened the tracks on the high plateau for riders. Hatta has shaded, lush colors and serenity.

One of the most popular areas in the UAE is the single-track at Showka. Purpose built from the natural landscape, it is a work of art and the immaculate trails are a joy to ride. The mountain bike community is growing in the UAE, as shown by the recent number of riders at the HotCog 6 event. However riders are now starting to look further afield and explore less frequented areas. The group of friends I ride with is an ever changing pool of about 10.

Sometimes we are five, sometimes one. The choice of route and area we plan to ride are often key factors in determining how many we are come Friday. Look at the pictures with this article and see the variety. Everyone will have tracks they prefer. The week preceding the

During the winter months, the Arabian Peninsula is incredibly green and lush.

Friday ride always follows the same pattern of interaction. On a Sunday or Monday, an email is sent around enquiring who is keen for a ride on Friday. Normally five or six riders are firmly committed at this stage. For the leader of the group it is a key part of the buildup as to when the route details are released. Too early and people drop out. Usually by Wednesday the route has been decided and everyone is excited. In psychology, each group, whether it is a group of friends, a club or at work is composed of different characters. Mountain bikers are no different. One of those team members can be called the phantom. The phantom is the rider who is always keen during the week and in the build-up. Come pre-ride day they suddenly discover plans that slipped their mind. This could be for a brunch, weddings, a ban by their partner when they find out who their beloved is going riding with or more often than not in Dubai, their coach has then on an easy 65% max HR day. No matter how many people turn up to ride, mountain biking in the UAE is always spectacular and you will never have a bad ride. Friday will always be the best day of the week. The day when you are free to ride the best mountain bike trails in the UAE.

No one will thank you for an 8km long section of deep gravel, even if it does have good training value.

ACTIVITY REPORT

Off-road and desert driving course in Dubai Words By: Nicola de Corato Photos By: Massimo Ziino

A desert driving course will teach you all the strategies and techniques for driving in the desert. Being fond of motorsports, I immediately accepted the invitation of my friend Minas of OffRoad Zone (www.offroadzone.com) to take part in one of the courses they usually organise here in Dubai.

I have never driven 4x4, but when I was a child, I’ve always been fascinated by competitions like the Camel Trophy also called the “Olympics of 4x4.” With the same spirit, I approached this experience in the UAE desert.

Planning your off-road adventure is the most important. Stock your car with emergency items: a reliable GPS system, tow rope and shackles, first aid kit, tyre gauge, spare tyre and jack, wooden board, charged mobile and charger, shovel, camera and sun block. Fill a cooler in your trunk and/or your back seat with bottled water for you and for the radiator.

Pack blankets and warm clothing in case you wind up stuck in the desert overnight.

Bring enough snacks, sandwiches, meats and beverages to tide you over. Chairs, mats, especially a flashlight, firewood can be important especially if you plan or forced to stay overnight. Off-roaders are an extremely social bunch; most trips end with an overnight camp out under the stars.

Bring maps, latest road information, compasses and pencils, long-term weather forecast, guides to navigation by sun and stars. If you are going in convoy, it’s important to brief everybody else about the path.

Car maintenance and equipment are extremely important. Your 4×4 must be in good running condition with a full tank of petrol, but we also suggest you to fill up gas every time you get the chance.

You need a good, cold, working AC if you want to be comfortable. Prepare for heat: temperatures can be as high as 48°C. Emergency situations are therefore to be expected

and planned for. Breakdowns, punctures, and bogging down in soft sand are the main difficulties.

Having a trainer showing you basic car mechanics, how to change a tyre, cool an engine, change a spare, and so on during the course, never hurt. Get trained in facing off-road situations. The best way to learn is to have a professional teach you and practice makes perfect.

Well, we are ready to turn our engine on.

After 45 minutes driving off Dubai, we got to our gate to the desert in order to reach the Pink Rocks. Before entering the desert, trainers taught us how to set tyre pressure, deflating them to below 15psi – you can go as low as 8psi, but you run the risk of your tyres coming off the wheel. Generally, 12psi is very suitable.

Before starting the real off-road trip it’s also important: • To mark you entry point in your GPS so you know where to go if lost.

• To put your 4×4 in 4 high (4 low is not advisable for most 4x4s as it makes you dig in).

• To turn off stability controls and airbags (if option exists and at your own risk).

Never enter the desert alone and make sure you inform a friend where you are going and when you will be returning.

In the first part of the course, I had chance to learn some basic tips to drive into the desert. The fundamentals involved being in the right gear, maintaining momentum, never riding the clutch, spotting the clues that lead you to firmer sand, staying out of the bowls at the bottom of dunes, driving at speeds that ensure the preservation of your vehicle and carefully watching other vehicles for clues about what lies ahead.

Start off slow, power will simply dig you in the sand; move steering wheel side to side creating traction; never stop flat – always stop uphill or downhill, this makes starting off much easier; don’t cross dunes if you don’t know what’s on other side. You may risk nose diving or hitting another vehicle.

How to reach the Pink Rocks: start from N 25° 01.389 E 55° 40.610 on the Nazwa Road, to the left of the Hatta road before you reach Big Red from Dubai. You’ll be heading east to

Pink Rocks at N 25° 01.227 E 55° 43.549. Here you have a choice; turn north and parallel the escarpment or south where you’ll find a route up to the top of the rocks — a great place for photos (if visibility is good) and a picnic lunch. Now work your way down towards N 25° 03.039 E 55° 44.051 and pick up the track heading roughly NNW towards a large open plain. Stay on the same heading and you’ll hit the new road beyond Nazwa. Turn left if you’re heading to Dubai.

During the course I also had chance to learn how to get unstuck. Follow these steps to avoid one of your mates having bragging rights for pulling you out: • Release throttle immediately • Go outside and assess situation • Determine which tyre needs support or hanging.

• Determine which way you should move.

Normally, you should move in a downhill direction as it is very difficult for your vehicle to go uphill in sand. Be friends with gravity – use it to your advantage.

• Clear out tyres and the 4×4 body of sand and get your passenger to push (shedding extra weight from the 4×4 in the process) If the body of the 4×4 is sitting on the sand, you may need a tow.

A single day course is not enough to assimilate everything; off-road driving techniques must be learned over many months and even the most experienced drivers still get caught out. Join a club, join the off-road trips organised and practice a lot.

Ready to drive,

Nico Nico is a blogger, marathon runner and triathlete, diver and heli rescue swimmer with Bergamo Scuba Angels. You can read his blog at www.dubayblog.com or email him at admin@dubaiblog.it for information about Dubai and desert trips, to schedule a desert run together, or just to say hello.

OUTDOORUAE

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EVENT REPORT

Team Paddle Challenge “Stand Up For Raelyn” at Yas Marina Words By: Nick Yates

Raelyn is the young, playful four-year-old daughter of Greg and Rebecca Beckler, Stand Up Paddlers from California, USA. She is a typical child full of life. But at age two and a half, Raelyn was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and takes daily tablets of chemotherapy and steroids among other powerful medicines. She has spent more time in a hospital than she has at the park or on the beach, but Raelyn keeps fighting. On January 25th, paddlers from around the UAE gathered in Abu Dhabi to support her fight.

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Organised by the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle Club, the Team Paddle Challenge “Stand Up for Raelyn” was dedicated to Stand Up Paddling (SUP) and fundraising for Raelyn. In keeping with the number of her age, teams of four paddled around a 400m circuit in Yas Marina for four hours.

Not only did the 12 teams have to always

have a team member on the water paddling around the course, but they also had to complete certain challenges along the way. There were laps where a paddler had to paddle on the left side only, paddle standing backwards, two people on the board but only one paddling and a lap where even the paddler was blind-folded being given direc-

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

tions by a teammate. Everyone’s favourite challenge was the team challenge on the Naish Fun Island. Each team took turns paddling the 3m x 3m inflatable island around the course.

This event brought together people from all over Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There were paddlers of all ages representing the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle Club, Surf Dubai, Naish Middle East, Spartans AD and Live Love SUP. But this wasn’t just an isolated event in the UAE. It all started from a conversation between Shane Perrin, a Live Love SUP brand ambassador and ultra-distance Stand Up Paddler, and Greg Beckler. When Shane found about Raelyn’s story, he wanted

to dedicate an adventure to her. To coincide with his ultra-distance 24-hour land paddle (that’s riding on a longboard with a paddle), he called upon SUP community leaders to rally their paddlers and fundraise with their own event. Events happened all across the US from California to Texas, Minnesota to Florida. The international edition happened here in Abu Dhabi at Yas Marina.

Jen Scully and Nick Yates answered that call with the club and also sponsored the event with Live Love SUP, their SUP lifestyle brand. They also pledged for every lap paddled and after four hours paddling, 579 laps were completed in total by the 12 teams.

But the generosity didn’t stop there. The

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Women’s SUP Racing Group based out of Michigan also sponsored Team Live Love SUP and their laps.

It was all for Raelyn, a little girl who is battling to live a normal life – one without the powerful drugs and medicine that would keep even an adult down. Many of the paddlers were stoked to have participated and supported Raelyn at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina and particularly loved the challenges. It truly was a great SUP community effort and even got new paddlers involved for the first time.

The smiles were endless throughout the day and while Raelyn couldn’t be with us at the event, she was in our thoughts with every lap paddled.

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MX1 Position

No.

Laps

Total time diff

Best time in lap

Best speed

1

1

Ross Runnalls

12

21:14.866

01:41.0231

60.580

2

12

Sean Gaugain

12

22:08.715 00:53.849

01:49.1824

56.053

3

18

Ben Menzies

12

22:12.786 00:57.920

01:48.6003

56.354

4

11

Dale Jullen

12

22:14.733 00:59.867

01:48.7748

56.263

5

15

Mark Ackerman

12

22:44.319 01:29.453

01:51.3223

54.976

DMX Round 5 Results 2013-2014 race season MOTO 1

Name

MOTO 2 65cc and 85cc Position

High-octane action at the fifth round on January 10 at the Jebel Ali track.

MX2 Position

No.

1

1

2

Name

No.

Name

Laps

Total time

1

22

Nick Kefford

6

12:18.292

2

19

Eugenio Barbaglia

6

12:34.276

3

174a Abdullah Al Nuaimi

6

13:36.125

4

199

Harry Suddards

6

14:42.609

5

88

Alex Mortada

5

13:09.505

Laps

Total time

Laps

Total time

Ross Runnalls

11

19:56.593

2

Dale Jullien

11

20:48.181

MX2

3

12

Sean Gaugain

11

20:57.971

Position

No.

4

4

Ryan Wynn

11

21:02.005

1

1

Ross Runnalls

12

20:01.921

5

23

Mohammed Jaffar

11

21:04.325

2

2

Dale Jullien

12

20:43.609

6

14

Mitch Malpass

11

21:36.049

3

12

Sean Gaugain

12

20:53.208

4

23

Mohammed Jaffar

12

21:17.510

5

4

Ryan Wynn

12

21:22.409

Laps

Total time

Masters and Clubman Position

No.

1

13

2 3

Name

Laps

Total time

Shannon O Connor

8

15:58.204

28

Hamdan Al Tamimi

8

16:09.551

5

Sean Holder

8

16:26.856

4

310 Jarno Elo

8

16:33.664

5

895 Brent Gregson

8

16:33.854

6

27

8

16:45.800

Corrado Meneghello

Position

No.

Name

1

22

2

19

3

Laps

Total time

Nick Kefford

7

14:37.016

Eugenio Barbaglia

7

15:00.836

7

16:04.853

174a Abdullah Al Nuaimi

4

42

Samuel Porter

7

16:06.540

5

199

Harry Suddards

7

17:00.061

6

88

Alex Mortada

6

15:39.749

125cc Position

No.

1

11

2

Laps

Total time

Erik Langdren

10

19:19.340

5

Dean Jullien

10

20:10.546

3

73

Darren Berry

10

20:14.474

4

22

Nicholas Kefford

10

21:04.723

16

Masters and Clubman Position

125cc

65cc and 85cc

Name

OUTDOORUAE

Name

No.

Name

1

310 Jarno Elo

10

20:03.467

2

13

Shannon O Connor

10

20:11.825

3

895

Brent Gregson

10

20:32.308

4

5

Sean Holder

10

20:51.115

5

25

Duncan Crerar

10

21:03.323

Position

No.

Laps

Total time diff

Best time in lap

Best speed

1

11

Erik Langdren

Name

11

19:55.801

01:56.5307

52.519

2

5

Dean Jullien

11

20:45.334 00:49.533

02:01.9493

50.185

3

73

Darren Berry

11

20:51.058 00:55.257

02:03.1502

49.695

4

22

Nicholas Kefford

10

20:23.113 1 Lap

02:01.4647

50.385

Name

Laps

Total time

MX1 Position

No.

1

1

Ross Runnalls

13

21:59.406

2

12

Sean Gaugain

13

22:41.323

3

18

Ben Menzies

13

22:49.626

4

11

Dale Jullen

13

23:17.651

5

7

Mohammed Al Balooshi

13

23:18.130

6

33

Josh Brodalka

12

22:11.269

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Ross Ian Runnalls reflexes and strength. Therefore it is vital to do lots of endurance training as it improves your fitness leading to more improvements on the motorcycle such as speed and consistency in lap times.

How do you balance your schedule?

I have time before my work starts in early mornings to do exercises or go riding, it depends on what I feel is best for myself and body to continue to progress without getting injured or demotivated.

Age: 19 Nationality: South African Occupation: Student Race number: 1 Bike: Kawasaki 450 and 250 Class: MX1 and MX2 How did you get into motocross?

My dad bought me a bike for my fourth birthday as he used to ride in his younger years as well. I started riding at the local track as a beginner like everyone else; after the first ride I could not stay away from motocross and the rest was history. I had a big passion for motocross since then and the feeling hasn’t changed to this very day. I started competing nationally all around South Africa from the age of five.

I was always usually in the top three at every race. I have been riding for 15 years now.

What would you say is your greatest racing achievement so far?

That would be racing in the Qatar GP in the most prestigious motocross championship in the world. It was such a great achievement as I got to ride with all the fastest racers in the world and a lot of my heroes that I have looked up to since I was a kid.

What’s your training schedule like?

I train every single day usually unless a sickness prevents me from doing so. I alternate between running, rowing, cycling and intense gym work. I usually train on the motorbike three times a week and if for some reason I cannot, I usually replace riding with running.

Motocross is extremely, physically demanding in cardiovascular fitness, core strength, agility,

Riders flip through the OutdoorUAE magazine during the DMX Round 5.

What’s your mindset during a race?

Starts are very important as it sets you up for the rest of the race.

A good start puts you instantly ahead of your competitors, gives you a clear track and no distractions therefore you can plan the rest of the race. I usually try to get a good start and then just go as fast as I can and try to be as consistent with my speed as possible. Usually, a race lasts 25 minutes so this could be 12 laps of hard work and constantly pushing yourself at 100% throughout the race. Mistakes are easy to make that’s why when riding you have to be so aware as you are doing multiple things at once such as braking, leaning, body movement, clutch and cornering all at once. During a race my plan is to go fast, be consistent and minimise mistakes.

Is there tough competition between the racers and between team members?

Yes, there is a lot of close racing at times which makes it fun because your adrenaline and brain is working that much more and it’s exciting because anything can happen at any point.

In MX2 class, myself and two of our riders are placed in the top three in the overall standings, which is great and shows how close things are. In MX1 class, myself and another rider are placed 1st and 2nd in the overall standings which shows how dominating the Kawasaki team is this year and really sets the standard for other brands to step up in the UAE. What do you like most about riding for the Kawasaki team?

The support system we have is great. All the help we receive from Sheikh Khalid Al Qasimi and Liberty Kawasaki management team is really great and shows how the right tools and support can help create a dominating team.

Also the bikes are very strong and enjoyable.

Kawasaki are really organised which helps with any issues that occur with the bikes and other problems.

You are last year’s MX1 and MX2 champ, do you feel any pressure this year?

Of course there is pressure and expectations to perform, but I like the pressure as it motivates me to train harder and get better as a rider.

Also I’ve been riding for a long time so the expectations are not only from other people but I also expect myself to perform at a good level. If I am not performing at that level then I step up my training and riding until I can get to a good level. I am constantly trying to push

the limits on the motorbike so I can continually improve. I also think it is good to stay mentally strong as you are in control of everything you do. Strong mentality gives you the advantage of positive training and racing in which you perform better and confident.

What has this sport taught you?

It takes hard work to achieve high goals and you have to continuously push your body and mind to not only achieve expectations but exceed them for great results. Nothing comes easy without hard work and determination. Yes, natural talent is important, but like everything in life “practice makes perfect” and you’ll never know what you can achieve if you keep settling once you have achieved a goal. It is important to keep pushing your limits and goals as nobody knows what you are capable of if you don’t prepare and work for it.

What does riding mean to you?

Ever since I sat on a bike the first time, it’s been the biggest part of my life. It is honestly one of those sports that you never get tired of or bored. The adrenaline, speed and danger make it an ever-changing and exuberating sport that has unlimited potential in which anything can happen at any second. It will always be a big part of my life. I live and breathe motocross.

Injuries is part of any sport, have you had any serious ones?

Luckily, I have no major injuries in my career as yet. Obviously it is a very dangerous sport as big jumps, high speeds and crashing are part of the sport. Every motocross rider will know that crashing comes at any point and big ones can cause serious injuries. So far my worst injuries are a broken wrist and a concussion; I have been very lucky as far as injuries because I know many riders with over 10 broken bones.

What should fans look forward to this season?

The racing and individual battles on the track are continuously on the go between different riders. It’s so great because riders all trying to fit in a limited space and using their skills to manoeuvre their bikes into tight spaces to get ahead of the opponents on the track. DMX have great seating and shaded areas that spectators can use, and food and drinks are available at any point of the day.

What is your advice for those interested in motocross?

If you want to do motocross professionally don’t settle for okay or all right, you have to push the limits and be a step ahead at every single thing you can such as diet, training, ability, skills and so on. Don’t limit yourself and take every opportunity to improve. For a hobby motocross, it is a great sport as you can pretty much do it anywhere with as many mates as you want and have great fun. Just enjoy being on the bike and take it easy.

EVENT REPORT

January Jaunts in UAE Words By: Stephen Turner Photos By: Margot Turner 3rd January, AWAFI/Giant Mountain Bike Race, RAK This inaugural free-to-enter race was a tremendous success after the short notice of preparation given to the organisers. A large (for MTB races) prize fund attracted 200 riders to the trails behind Ras Al Kkaimah en route to Jebel Jais. Turn left and a newly created course in an old quarry proved a perfect mountain-drop setting. Surrounded by hills, the course comprised of sand (of course), dirt, bombholes, gradual ascents and descents, three drop-offs and a green single-track bordering a sheep wall reminiscent of Peak District sheep pens. The short laps of 3.5km meant for exciting racing and easy access for spectators. This was a real good one.

Smile factor: Lose half mark for strange start times, lose a mark for results service, but add one for prize money and large trophies

4.5 out of 5 stars 10th January, Urban-Ultra Trail Run Khatt Springs, RAK Lung-busting steep ascent and a quad-bashing descent featured in the annual race up and down the mountain sloping into the Khatt Springs area. A clearly defined vertiginous track led competitors in a dawn race up this vista-laden trail run. Early sunshine cast long shadows across the neighbouring ravines leading up to the summits. In the opposite direction, Ras Al Khaimah awakened as you looked across houses and desert to the sea.

Near the top a cool breeze blew, the crest revealing hundreds of hills inland waiting to be explored. The descent passed through a small village where barefooted children looked on in bewilderment. We taught them high-fives which they gleefully anticipated on the next lap. Unlike some large marathons, this “boutique” special event was extremely well-organised in a very personal and straightforward manner over a very challenging and tough climb. Every finisher was a winner.

Smile factor: Urban-Ultra gets better and better 5 stars 12th January, Hike in Tawiyen A group of friends are hiking the routes following the maps featured in previous issues of OutdoorUAE magazine (please print more routes!). Number three was on our list but the rain and low fog changed our plans. Plus the muddy trail conditions meant that our softroader was only just able to survive. Instead, a hike along the Wadi Orag was chosen as a simple alternative. A little scrambling amongst the boulders and on the lower slab of Azimuth climbing wall entertained us, spotting the bolted routes and noting to return with climbing gear. Rock falls from the road building made for diversionary house-sized boulders, one of which looked like a giant toad. Even when out in the remote country it always gladdens me that the locals are so friendly, smiling and waving encouragement as we wander their hills.

Smile factor: No sunshine and no summit view, so lose a point 4 stars 17th January, Hot Cog Hot 6 six-hour mountain bike race in Showka It is immensely satisfying racing a bike in the late afternoon. The sun’s setting rays darken shadows around the rocks along the route, making them seem more challenging and also more obvious. It’s the sixth hour and you know the course like the back of your hand. Some entrants have stopped so the trails belong to Start of the ladies Awafi race

Azimuth Wall

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OUTDOORUAE

At the Urban-Ultra

you. Managing the lactic acid in your legs up and over the by now well-known humps and jumps, hills and thrills, the adrenaline rushes through your body as you push for the finish line. Tiredness evaporates as the rhythm of the race speeds you along, flicking wheels between boulders and using momentum to crest obstacles. As the organiser announced at the start briefing: “This is a Hot Cog course, challenging and testing.” And it was. Perpetually rocky, it linked together most of the well-loved rides in Showka to form an undulating 7.7km lap. Competitors formed up solo or in teams of pairs with very generous prizes for winners from numerous sponsors. The bike shop industry made this a special event by erecting their colourful tents to bring a much appreciated “professional” buzz to the mountain bike race. And a must-mention, thanks to Planet Coffee for providing free coffee for the event.

What a magnificent idea. Only in Dubai. The bike community really came out to support this event and it was a belter.

Smile factor: Mountain bike racing at its best

5+ stars

NEW STORES OPENING SOON

The Beach - JBR, Dubai | Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi Times Square Center, Dubai

EVENT REPORT

An interview with

Adil Khalid Words By: Jennifer Hardie Photos Supplied By: Jumeirah Group

Jennifer Hardie had the opportunity to sit down with professional sailor Adil Khalid, who is the UAE’s first Olympic sailor and the first Arab sailor to compete in the Volvo Ocean Race with Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing, to hear more about sailing in the UAE and Adil’s plans for the future.

Photo Supplied By: Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority I spend most of my time travelling around and racing with the best people in the world.

I am so passionate about sailing; I just love what I’m doing. I am also fortunate that the leadership in Abu Dhabi and Dubai are so supportive of sailing in the UAE.

How long have you been sailing for?

I’ve been sailing since I was 10 years old. I first started in a Laser 4.7, I then moved up to a Laser Radial and then a Laser Standard.

Tell me about your sailing career?

I was the first sailor to represent the UAE

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OUTDOORUAE

at the Olympics in Beijing in 2008. It was a great feeling, it’s all athletes’ dream to compete in the Olympics. You work eight to 10 years to reach there. It was a great experience. For me it wasn’t about winning, it was about competing. I was so proud to show the whole world that Arabs can sail.

Do you have plans to go back to competing in Laser or another class of boat for the Olympics?

I’m focusing on the Volvo Ocean Race for 2014-2015, after then I will try a few different classes of boats, and then hopefully try to qualify for the Olympics. As for the type of boat, I might try to do Laser again, or possibly a 49er or 470.

The Volvo Ocean Race starts in the autumn, what preparation do you need to do in advance?

In early February, the Abu Dhabi Ocean

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE Racing team comes together in the UK, and we’ll undergo some of our physical training before heading to Portugal for four to five months training out at sea. We’ll then participate in a few sailing events before all the boats set off from Alicante, Spain in October.

What’s it like being out at sea for such a long time?

We’re out at sea for nine months in total, but we often have a few weeks stopover in the different ports.

I love it. You forget the world; especially when you’re doing what you love. When you wake up seeing your country’s flag behind you, it motivates you. I’m happy when I’m aboard the sailing yacht. I also feel very proud to share our Emirati culture when I meet people.

What was your most memorable moment from the last Volvo Ocean Race?

I have many, but a few that stand out are winning the first in-port race in Alicante and winning the in-port race in Abu Dhabi, my home port race. You cannot forget it: when you see one hundred to two hundred thousand people cheering you on, it’s amazing.

It’s nice to see that people have respect for what you’re doing.

You’re also a role model for Emirati youth. What do you do to get them involved in the sport?

You have to teach them and give them your time. I’ll go out on the water and show them how to improve their sailing techniques. I also still compete in the UAE Nationals when my schedule allows it, or I come down to support our sailors.

The Volvo Ocean Race covers 10 cities in 10 countries: Spain, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, China, New Zealand, Brazil, USA, Portugal, France and Sweden. The teams cover 39,379 nautical miles, which is equivalent to 45,317mi or 72,930km. The race will start on 4th October 2014 in Alicante, and finish on 27 June 2015 in Gothenburg, the Swedish home of Volvo.

The Volvo Ocean Race will be in Abu Dhabi from 15th December 2014 to 3rd January 2014.

January Sailing

Dubai was the place to be this January for lots of sailing. The Dubai Offshore Sailing Club (DOSC) held a number of sailing races for adults and children throughout the month. The two biggest events were the third round of the UAE Nationals, 24th25th January, and the Jumeirah Regatta, 23rd-25th January. Friday and Saturday started out with very little wind, but soon picked up to deliver some great racing for all competitors. The UAE Nationals had 95 dinghy sailboats from around the UAE competing for top spots; while the Jumeirah Regatta had more than 45 keelboats take to the waters for three days of action packed racing.

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UAE Sailing Results – January UAE Nationals, Round 3: 24 - 25 January 2014 Optimist Junior (under 11 years) 1st Jentl Hanemaaijer, DOSC 2nd Matthew Hardie, DOSC 3rd Abdulla Nooh Alraeesi, AHCSC Optimist 1st Jentl Hanemaaijer, DOSC 2nd Lucy Wilson, DOSC 3rd Matthew Hardie, DOSC Laser 4.7 1st Saif Ibrahim Al Naimie, EHC 2nd Hamood Salem Al Zaidi, EHC 3rd Maxence van Belberghe, DOSC Laser Radial 1st Saeed Salem Al Zaidi, EHC 2nd Fionn Conway, DOSC 3rd Saif Ibrahim Ah Hamadi, EHC Laser Standard 1st Al Tate, DOSC 2nd John Woolcock, DOSC 3rd James Hopson, DOSC Open Dinghy 1st Nikolaj Myhre, DOSC 2nd Rob Fordyce, DOSC 3rd Marc Bell, DOSC Jumeirah Regatta at DOSC: 23 - 25 January 2014 IRC 1 1st Diablo, Doug Hassell 2nd Sovereign, Cameron Price 3rd Nefertiti, David Rostant IRC 2 1st Impi, Perry Tonking 2nd Shahrazad, David Worrall 3rd Clairedelune, GaetanHerve IRC 3 1st Insatiable, Alan Saunders 2nd Maijay, Glen Sansom 3rd Tosser, Tom Coldicott

February - March Sailing Events 14th-15th February, UAE Nationals – Round 4, Hamriyah

22nd February, Sail Around The World Islands, DOSC 7th-8th March, UAE Nationals – Round 5, Abu Dhabi 11th-15th March, Mussanah Race Week, Oman Jennifer Hardie works in the world of PR by day, but after hours is Membership Secretary at DOSC and races a Laser when she’s not accompanying her 10-year-old son Matthew to Optimist events around the world. She’s always happy to answer sailing related questions: membership@doscuae.com

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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EVENT REPORT

The spoils of WAR Saturday, January 18th saw 550 competitors coming together to take on the fifth installment of the Wadi Adventure Race – a gruelling 10km obstacle race hosted by Wadi Adventure in Al Ain. Faced with a stiff morning breeze and temperatures barely reaching double digits, the kaleidoscopic mass of 550 racers was led by race creator Sean Kinsella to the starting line – an abandoned service road that sent runners into the vast emptiness of the desert.

That emptiness was short-lived as each runner approached the dreaded “Sandbag Pick-up Point” – a nasty 30kg for men and 15kg for women.

Having kept dry for the first 3kms of the race, athletes were then forced to fight the currents up the Wadi Adventure whitewater channels, ending up at the familiar “Raft Leap.” Keeping to the classics, Sean relied on a number of tried-and-tested obstacles, but also introduced a range of new and exciting obstacles to keep the runners guessing.

New obstacles included enlisting the help of our friends at the Emirates Fire & Rescue Company – hosing runners down as they passed; a new “Tire Pull” challenge – set up by the Reebok LifeSpark crew; and 2.5 tons

of ice dumped into the “Ice Pit” and “Plunge Pool” below the monkey bars. As always, runners had to scale the three-metre high “Wall” before stepping onto the finishing mat and collecting the coveted WAR medal.

Lifting the trophy in first place for the Men Category A was Olympic kayaker Kilian Foulon, with a time of 55:20. In second place, Ryan Jucker with 56:41, and just one second behind, Boris Rajencikz in third with a time of 56:42.

Winning the Ladies Category A for the second time in a row was Eva Clarke in a time of 1:00:27. In second place with a time

of 1:02:16 was Frances McNally, and Sylwia Zacharko in third at 1:06:52. Winners in the Men and Ladies Categories B and C were: Martin Healy and Kamil Kapkaev, and Jelena Tustic and Kelly Fray respectively.

Overall, runners and spectators were treated to a day full of fun and giveaways, generously provided by event sponsors (Gold Level sponsors including: “Active Life” from Daman Insurance, Al Noor Hospital, and Eastern Motors), and music on the beach provided by the One To One Hotel in Al Ain. For images of the race, please visit www.facebook. com/WadiAdventureRace.

Race results Rank

Name

Bib

Nationality

Finish time

1

Kilian Foulon

544

FRA

00:55:20

2

Ryan Jucker

36

RSA

00:56:41

3

Boris Rajencikz

545

SVK

00:56:42

4

Boumedienne Antar

115

FRA

00:56:55

5

Grant Goes

106

NZL

00:56:56

6

James MacDonald

27

CAN

00:57:48

7

Paul Mueller

114

AUS

00:57:49

8

Adrien Charon

80

FRA

00:59:08

9

Levi Angelo Blancke Denys

110

ESP

00:59:10

10

Sam O’Shea

105

GBR

00:59:37

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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

Himalayas on four paws

Dog trekking through Indian Garhwal Words By: Agata Wlodarczyk and Przemek Bucharowski Photos By: Przemek Bucharowski

“I’ll see you in two months and then we decide. For now, please save your arm. It may take up to two months to heal the broken collarbone, but I cannot guarantee the fracture is healed,” the voice of the surgeon sounded decisive.

I can hear the sound of cracked collarbone and feel the wave of pain. I’m shocked, my head hurts, the pain does not allow me to raise my hand. So this is the end of our journey.

After two months of trekking through Indian Himalayas, near Gaumukh, I was pulled by Diuna, our ceskoslovensky vlcak (wolfdog), fell down on a stone and broke my collarbone. We are 16km away from nearest civilization and more than 100km to the hospital...

India. Our dream that has finally come true We have been invited to India in autumn 2012 by a young Hindu journalist we met during one of our climbing trips over Armenia. The call sounded serious and tempting: “I’ve decided to come back to India and start my own newspaper, ‘The Outdoor Journal.’ I need help from someone who knows climbing and photography. Your help.”

We did not hesitate for a moment. The dream has just come true, this was our calling.

The only obstacle happened to have four paws and a wet nose. But was it a real obstacle at all? Leaving our dog was not an option. When we decided on having a dog, we knew she would accompany us everywhere. Even when we heard those kind of questions like: “India with a dog?”or “You cannot do it”.

Of course we can - after several months of

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preparation, in mid January 2013 we landed at the international airport in New Delhi.

So there the story begins. Soon, however, it turns out that life in India with a dog, is not a fairytale, and there is not a good ending at all.

We have been climbing a few times during our stay in Delhi. First, at an artificial outdoor wall in Indian Mountaineering Foundation.

Later, close to Gurgaon and New Delhi, at the rocks in Dhauj. The spot is located at the desert area with an old dried-up lake, accompanied by 10-30m high rocks. Climbers from abroad look like aliens, women in sari passing by with brushwood on their heads, children herding goats and “city people” who come to Dhauj to speed up and burn rubber (flat sandy area is perfect for motorcycle sports, so

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

popular nowadays in India). In the middle of this madness there are two Polish climbers and the dog.

Apart from those short climbs outside Delhi, it soon became clear that life in the big Indian city with a dog becomes more and more difficult. After three months we have had enough.

We want to go back to Warsaw, a city that seemed to be gray and dull on the departure.

For us, Warsaw shines again in our dreams.

We miss the European lifestyle, Poland and Warsaw, but most often our thoughts turn to the Tatra Mountains, our idyllic place. The decision was made, we decided to go back.

But then it turned out that our “fairytale from One Thousand and One Nights” is more like “Shrek.” How’s that? In European Union, the companion animal travel has been subject to strict laws and regulations. This is meant to avoid spreading or re-introducing rabies. The conditions for the non-commercial movement of pet animals have been harmonised under the conditions laid down in Regulation 998/2003 of UE. Pets should be identified by an electronic identification system (transponder) or by a clearly readable tattoo applied before 3rd July 2011. For all movements, the animal needs to be accompanied by a passport and should have valid rabies vaccination.

Pets coming from third world countries should have a positive serological test - a blood sample taken at least 30 days after it was vaccinated and three months before movement.

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This can be certified only by an approved EU lab. We have all the papers except blood test.

Nobody told us in Poland it was required to re-enter European Union.

So we have spent another three months in India “What shall we do,” we asked each other.

Coming back and risking the quarantine for Diuna was not an option. “What to do?”

Easiest solutions are always hardest to find.

Let’s spend those three months in Himalayas, let’s go dog trekking! After all, Garhwal is only 500km away from Delhi.

The assumption was simple. We bought a tent (the cheapest available Chinese production), packed our backpacks with basic and essential gear and headed to Munsiari, a town on the border triangle of India, China and Nepal. From there we headed west on foot, living as nomads on the roof of the world. Most nights we spent at “many-stars hotel” in our tent, sometimes we sought refuge in Hindu temples, village huts made of ​​ clay and stone (which often do not have toilets, but satellite dish is a must), rarely-cheap hostels for backpackers. We tried to avoid major hiking trails, all the food for us and the dog we carried in our backpacks then cooked it over a campfire.

We did not use porters and guides, travelling on our own.

Every morning we woke up with a view on

five or six and seven-thousand-metres-high peaks of Maiktoli, Bhagirathi, Trisul, Nanda Devi, Shivling, etc. Performed basic duties – pitch a tent, set campfire, cook, feed Diuna, pack our gear and walk through the mountains with our wolfdog. Clear the mind and follow the sun, forget about our problems and live with the nature. Walking up and down, through villages, meadows and high passes, heading west of Garhwal.

After 55 days we have trekked through

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MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

the Himalayan range (from Munsiari towards Gangotri) walking 500km (the other 500km spent in buses and jeeps). During those two months, we have visited 12 Himalayan valleys suspended between six and seven-thousandmetres high mountain peaks, occasionally losing the trail and surviving the moments of true horror being lost in the jungle. We have climbed 63km vertically – it’s like summiting Mount Everest seven times, starting from sea level. And there might be nothing interesting – just an ordinary trekking – but we have been accompanied by Diuna, our brave Czechoslovakian wolfdog, first polish dog in Garhwal Himalayas. The high mountains seen from the perspective of dog paws looked completely different. Why should they be “nice and easy?”Wandering with a dog can be an experience that can literally freeze the blood in your veins. One day, on the way to Pindari valley, unleashed Diuna (we went down a very steep, slippery slope) chased a herd of goats grazing nearby. Although recalled, Diuna haven’t returned for half an hour. When she finally came back, her jaws and front legs had been full of blood. The fear paralysed us. Has anything happened to her? Maybe she was attacked by another dog defending goats’ herd?

Or maybe... no, she could have not hunted.

But it turned out to be true. For the first time in her life, Diuna unleashed her wolf ancestors’ instinct to hunt the fleeing animal. She’s an adult now, not a puppy anymore. In a short time we have been surrounded by a dozen of residents from the nearby village Lahur. The old lady and the owner of a herd of goats, bewailed on a mountain slope. After several hours of negotiations conducted in Hindi (a language we did not know), English (knew by one inhabitant of the village) and the interna-

tional body language, we were able to come to an agreement: we pay for damage, and the goat would be eaten by the people of Lahur (another 30 kg of supplies was beyond us).

Dog trekking builds very close relation with your dog, thin leash with a shock-absorber makes both of you a team, the dog is your partner. In the mountains, your four-pawed partner pulls you up, but also drags you down.

From now on, we promised ourselves not to unleash Diuna below 3,500m above sea level.

Even on the steepest slopes, we go with Diuna strapped to our backpack hip belt. It worked well provided that there is no wild animal nearby. No command is able to stop her.

After two months of our trekking we have reached the holy place for Hindu religion – Gaumukh, the source of Ganges River coming out from melting glacier of Bhagirathi. On June 1st, Diuna scented the presence of a herd of Himalayan Tahrs (rare animals resembling mountain goats). Suddenly she dragged Agata so hard causing her to fall down and hit her shoulder badly. When she got up, the collarbone was broken. This was the end of our adventure, now was the time for rescue. The nearest town of Gangotri was 16km, ironically there was nobody in this pilgrimage area, no cell phone coverage, no help available. We managed to go down to the village and left next day to Uttarkashi for emergency.

It’s been five months since the accident, the collarbone was eventually operated in Poland.

We cannot be angry with Diuna, but we believe that this fate rescued us from Garhwal.

The day we left Gangotri, Himalayas haunted an early monsoon (usually it arrives a month later), bringing heavy rains and flooding. Thousands of people were trapped in the place where we had been a few days earlier. More than 100,000 people have been evacuated from the mountains by military helicopters. A month later, in Poland, it turned out that 5,000 people were missing during the “Himalayan tsunami” were considered dead. We live, thanks to Diuna.

Travelling with a dog is not an easy job. But

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we cannot imagine doing it without Diuna. She is a part of our family and we are responsible for her. Our 500km dog trekking gave us a lot of experience and we know now that you can follow your dreams accompanied by your dog.

And also inspire thousands of people back in Poland to go for a long dog walk.

For 2014, we plan 1,000km long trek over Mongolian Altai. With Diuna of course! You can help us inspire more people, visit igg.me/ at/dogtrekking or you can send your donations via PayPal account przemek@3wilki.pl.

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

New Zealand part 1:

The north island: the poor relation?

Words + Photos By: Helen McClure

When investigating where to go on a three week trip to New Zealand, without exception, people said: “Head to the south island. Don’t spend much time in the north.”

Luckily, I’m not very good at listening to advice. There is nothing as strange as nature, and the north island has some of the strangest sights. New Zealand is also famous as a place of adventure, so can a young family really enjoy the fruits this land has to offer?

We visited the islands in November, during spring. The days were getting warmer, but I have a strong suspicion that “outdoor pursuits” might be code for “keeping active to keep out the cold.” I love sports, but there was no way I was getting in that sea until things properly heat up.

Although a pleasant town, Auckland isn’t a great bustling city, and it’s not the main reason to visit New Zealand, so we headed to Coromandel for an introduction to the countryside.

The views are tremendous. From clear, blue waters to rocky islands, cliff archways and rich pastures, the coastline is stunning. We spent a couple of fun hours digging around on Hot Water Beach, where natural hot springs surface on the beach – take a spade and you can create your own spa. The water is really hot enough to boil an egg in places so keep an eye on little ones.

From there it is a long drive to the Waitomo Caves, but hearing that it was a spectacu-

lar site, and with the Middle Earth countryside to keep our eyes feasted, we decided it was worth the effort. Although known to the Maoris, it was only discovered by Westerns in 1887 when English surveyor Fred Mace was introduced to it by local tribesmen. The caves have the usual beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, lit in interesting ways to resemble elephants or the pointing finger of ET, but its real draw are the glow worms; thousands of tiny blue lights that cling to the ceiling and are only revealed in the pitch dark. A boat ride, where the participants remain respectfully silent, makes this a haunting trip.

Rotorua is a well-known tourist magnet due to its hot springs, and although commercialised it still retains its charm and is a pretty chilled-out place. That said, if you’re looking for adventure you won’t have to go looking for it. It will more or less hit you in the face.

And while you’re looking for excuses not to go zorbing, or rafting, or dangling in the air at the end of a piece of string, there is plenty to keep you occupied. Rotorua is a place you can smell before you arrive. You just have to walk through Kuirau Park in the centre of town to discover the source of the sulphur.

Boiling water and mud literally bubbles out of the ground, in swamps, lakes, and sometimes car parks. If you worry about your child falling into the local duck pond, you might want to keep them closer to heel. First-degree burns from a fall in these ponds are likely. It is a mesmerising sight however. At every turn

steam rises from the ground.

If you’ve exhausted yourself with outdoor pursuits, Napier is a good place to head to for from R&R, after all, it’s the home of wine. The vineyards are the main draw of the Hawkes Bay area, and coincidentally it is the birthplace of New Zealand wine after French missionaries settled here in 1851, now the Mission Estate.

Wellington, the capital, was our last port of call on the north island, as we boarded a ferry heading south. The south island was going to have to be pretty special if it was going to live up to its reputation and beat the sights of the north. What was in store?

The practical bit: There are plenty of free guides and maps to pick up enroute to help you plan your route and accommodation. Look out for information from Jasons.co.nz and the AA (Automobile Association, aatravel.co.nz).

Info on the web: www.newzealand.com 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/expatexplorers and 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

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+ Five-star outdoor travel Andermatt, Switzerland is a top outdoor destination with classy amenities Words By: Daniel Birkhofer Photos Supplied By: GHM Hotels

Outdoor travel may involve living out of a backpack for days, without a proper shower or a shave, sleeping in small tents or on the cold, hard ground. This romantic idea of independence, flexibility and adventure does apply, but not always.

Looking at Europe, most outdoor hotspots offer comfortable and modern accommodations suitable for all needs and budgets.

Switzerland is certainly one of the top outdoor destinations in Europe for winter as well as summer despite its small size. Situated in central Europe between Germany, France and Italy, the country has a very diverse culture

with four spoken languages. Switzerland is synonymous for picturesque mountain scenery in the Alps. What really separates Switzerland from other destinations in the world that have mountains higher than 4,000m is its infrastructure and the well-established and organised services offered through all layers of the tourism industry. For decades, Switzerland is known for its elegant ski destinations like St Moritz, Zermatt, Gstaad and Verbier attracting the rich and famous around the globe.

Andermatt is the rising star on this list of exclusive Swiss outdoor destinations. What separates it from all the others is that Andermatt is undergoing a full makeover, which we have seen here in the Middle East, but this scale of rebuilding and changing the face of a

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region is rare in Europe; and certainly unique in Switzerland. Before, Andermatt was an army base limiting tourism for a long time which therefore preserved a huge part of the valley to build an outdoor playground and top notch accommodations. Environmentally friendly materials and sustainability are also top priorities of the development which will consist after completion of six four and five-star hotels, 490 spacious apartments in 42 buildings as well as about 25 bespoke chalets. Unlike master developments in the Middle East, where you start from virgin land, Andermatt had to blend in the culture and heritage of the village as an important trade route dating back hundreds of years. Andermatt Swiss Alps is affiliated with the Orascom Development Holding AG which is also known for their projects in the UAE as well as in Oman, Egypt and on the Adriatic Sea. The five-star deluxe hotel, The Chedi Andermatt, run by GHM Hotels opened its doors in December 2013 as the flagship hotel of the resort. The 104 units offer the latest state-ofthe-art amenities, like if you wanted to start your fireplace with a tablet PC, you can do it in The Chedi Andermatt. Actually you can control almost everything in your room with the tablet computer which acts as a remote. This modern innovation fits well with the modern interior design that incorporates a twist of the Swiss mountain chalet with lots of wood, natural materials and some Asian influence. After a long day of skiing, hiking, golfing, climbing or just sightseeing, you can unwind in your room and take a bath with mountain view. For a relaxing massage after an active day out, the hotel offers an exclusive spa on a vast area of 2,400sqm. The 35m covered indoor pool as well as the 12m heated outdoor pool invite you for a swim all year round no matter of the temperature and weather. The hotel has a lot to offer, even some unique features like their own cheese cellar, wine and cigar library. If you visit the main restaurant you might see a familiar face since the current Executive Chef Mansour Memarian worked at the Burj Al Arab in Dubai before.

As an outdoor enthusiast, staying at The Chedi Andermatt will test your commitment

to go out and be active or just give into the temptation and stay inside to enjoy the royal treatment. But if you do choose to go out, you will not miss a thing because even a ski butler is at your service here. Switzerland ranks in the world’s top ten with regards to the per capita income and high standard of living, so staying at The Chedi Andermatt does not come cheap and room prices start 4,000 AED per night.

Switzerland is a year round travel destination especially for mountain and winter sports.

Andermatt offers a diverse mix of activities right in front of your doorstep and within a walking distance.

What to do: Winter There are already extensive ski facilities available at the moment in the two ski areas, Andermatt and Sedrun, which will be consolidated with an additional investment of 550 million AED into one big ski area of more than 120km of slopes. Apart from the modernisation of the existing facilities, the ski resort will have three aerial tramways, four cable cars, 11 chairlifts and six ski lifts after completion, making it the biggest ski area in central Switzerland with guarantee of snow for the whole skiing season.

Of course you can also slide down the hills around Andermatt on a sledge or take the railways up to the mountains and come all the way down sledding. Ice skating is also offered if you fancy gliding over shimmering solid water.

Summer The newly built golf course is embedded in the mountain scenery and landscape of more than 130 hectares with an 18-hole course, driving range and clubhouse. Being surrounded by mountains, sports like hiking, rock climbing, cycling and mountain biking are offered in all kinds of facets and different levels, so you will find the right route for your taste and fitness level. If this is not enough, there are also adventures activities like paragliding or parachuting, canyoning, bungee jumping and much more.

If you are not a thrill-seeker, you can enjoy the fresh mountain air, dive into the traditional

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life in the Alps and relish in the scenery as well as the flora and fauna. With a sustanability focus on the whole project, this treasure of the mountains will hopefully be preserved for the coming generations and the accessibility and world-class services will remain intact.

How to get there: Andermatt is situated directly at the Gotthard tunnel, one of the most important transit routes through the Alps to date. Zurich and its airport is only a two-hour train journey (1.5hrs by car) away and Lucerne only 45mins. Not only are these cities the closet airports to Andermatt in Switzerland, they make also great locations for day trips while staying in Andermatt.

Milan would also be one option to fly to which is a two-hour car drive from Andermatt and would also be a nice day trip not only for culture, but also for the world famous fashion houses and some window shopping.

The Chedi Andermatt also offers an exclusive pickup service either from the train station or directly from the airport.

Emirates flies direct to Zurich, Geneva and Milan; Etihad to Geneva and Milan or direct connections with Swiss Air as well as other indirect flights available from the Middle East.

If you enjoyed your stay so much that you want to come back but to your own property, prices range from starting starting from 1.6 million AED for an apartment. Andermatt has a special title deed in Switzerland which allows foreigners full ownership of the property. Visit www.ghmhotels.com/en/the-chedi-andermatt or www.andermatt-swissalps.ch.

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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In the Hippie Commune

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

Words + Photos By: William Pardoe, www.wheres-willy.com

Hippies burst into existence in the 1960s and created a huge wake in the culture of the time. By the 1970s, there were over ten thousand hippie communes in the US alone, as people were swept up in the peace and love ethos and getting back to the land. But what has become of the hippie today? Hitchhiking through Latin America last year, I found myself in a modern day commune in the Ecuadorian Andes.

Life in the commune Glass jars sit on the shelves, harbouring mysterious yeast cultures. Suspicious concoctions and healthful potions are fizzing and fermenting; Kombucha in tea, Kefir in milk, and frothy sourdough starters. They sit nestled between bushels of broccoli, mounds of tomatoes, sweet potatoes and onions. A hundred bananas, enough for the week, are laid across a wooden beam. Books occupy the opposite corner, their dusty smell containing the wisdom of permaculture farmers, rustic chefs, and spiritual gurus. Everything here is brought up by horse, human or donkey – a steep two-hour hike into the mountains from the hippy hub of Vilcabamba.

There is a long table in this mudbrick room; a place for family meals and weekly meetings. There are no windows or doors to exclude nature – it is open to the mountain air and valley view, stretching out to the sil-

Building a pizza oven with magical powers

Our neighbours in the valley over

houetted peaks where the sun goes to sleep each evening.

Eleven of us sit around the table for lunch.

The morning has been spent clearing pasture for the donkeys, feeding the chickens and collecting wild food from the “forest garden.” Work is complete and it’s time to enjoy the fruits of our labours. A big lunch is prepared, but before digging in, we hold hands

The Hippie Trail

Music and conversation to feed the soul

The sun explodes and the heavens open

and close our eyes. After a few deep breaths, a communal “omm” begins to resonate.

With our voices reverberating in harmony, an energy fills the room. The release leaves a smile on everyone’s face, enjoying the peaceful energy for a few moments before opening their eyes, unless laughter erupts. A kiss for each hand and we tuck in. Sometimes someone would read a thought-provoking

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Weeding amongst the forest garden

passage from a book like The Prophet. This is a hippie commune, after all!

After lunch, the rest of the day is ours. It is time to relax with a book, lie in a hammock, bake a loaf of bread or do some meditation.

Time is enjoyed doing simple things or spent broadening the mind; books on the shelf outline the joy of living in the moment, by letting go of past and future and breathing enthusiasm into whatever task is at hand; be it pruning thorn bushes, or shovelling sh*t.

The people here are relaxed; a common side effect of walking around barefoot in the dirt, with a green mountain valley stretching out beyond your toes to the ever-flowing sounds of river and waterfall. Or perhaps it’s the curse of a day spent gently rocking in a hammock. They came as travellers seeking something more meaningful than the tourist trail; to settle in somewhere and really get to know the place. Some are passing through, volunteering for a few weeks, others have Freshly baked, buttery muffins

sunk their roots into this soil and are building their houses from it. They want to be part of its progress, to create a natural life by working with nature rather than money.

The commune started here ten years ago, taking a piece of land devastated by deforestation and cattle grazing, with the aim of rejuvenating it until it can fully sustain their needs. It’s a small-scale effort to reverse the damage we’re doing to the planet, and perhaps to learn post-apocalyptic farming for when the world has been ravaged and spent.

Moroccan lentils - a touch of Arabic

The damage we’re doing to the land is telling, when after ten years of regeneration and fertilisation it is still degraded. As such, the community must hike most of their food up from Vilcabamba, with the intention of being self-sustained by the land within five years.

The hippies of today The word “hippie” probably conjures images of psychedelically painted VWs, drug-fuelled festivals and colourful flower power peace protesters. The movement has continued to evolve since the revolutionary, eccentric hippies of the 60s were celebrating their newfound cultural freedom. The characters atop this Andean mountain are more subdued; simply living life as they think it should be lived.

There are still those making a statement, of course. Return to the tourist trail and you’ll find what I call “hipsters” – the hippier-than-thou bunch. They flaunt Rastafarian dreadlocks, baggy trousers from Nepal and a Guatemalan satchel like it’s Gucci. It amuses me that these “non-conformists” are conforming so eagerly to their stereotype. The hipsters of today drape themselves in greens and browns – if you rock up in wild 60s multicolour, then you’ll be seen as conforming to the stereotype! The term for these fickle fashionistas is “hippycrite.”

Fashion aside, the “Peace and Love” philosophy survives. Many follow a Buddhist mindset of meditation and spirituality. Peace is at the heart of the hippie mentality — something far more worthwhile to attain than money or possessions. Those at the commune are wealthy in time and tranquillity. Vital to the success of the community is love, which often comes from meditation itself. Inner peace shines outward.

The hippie culture is alive and well.

Tempted by life in a commune? A quick Google search of Hare Krishna or Hippie Commune and the intended location will give you a head start. It could be the adventure of a lifetime!

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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

Turn the key and get on the road OutdoorUAE meets the globetrotting Magirus Nomads Words By: Daniel Birkhofer

It was right after New Year and I was driving down Jumeirah Beach Road in Dubai when I recognised an interesting vehicle parked on the beach. I knew they must be globetrotters.

For I dream to travel the world myself, that was enough reason for me to investigate.

While sneaking around the vehicle, I was lucky enough to the meet the owners Gerti and Stefan from Germany. After a short chat, it was clear they have enough stories to tell, so we agreed to meet again for a short interview.

The couple could be considered newbies in the globetrotting scene since this is their first trip for such a long distance and time.

They travelled Europe for shorter trips on their motorbikes before. They forgot when this idea for a long trip was born, but Stefan told me it was a dream he had since his childhood and it didn’t take too much persuasion to get Gerti to join in. The initial plan was to travel from Germany along the Black Sea to the Middle East and then via Saudi Arabia to Africa. The timeframe was one year since Gerti could take a one year break from work with unpaid leave and the security of keeping the job. Planning was done in about two to three months and then they decided on their car which, for the whole undertaking, is the main step. They put about another few months into the preparation of the vehicle and in adjusting the interior to their needs.

The choice for the car was a common one for globetrotters – an older vehicle with little or no electricity, easy to maintain and repair,

and most importantly durable. Comfort and other amenities like AC are not important.

Their choice was a Magirus Mercur 120 D with character and history as per the taste of Stefan. The truck was built in 1968 and has a 7500ccm and six-cylinder diesel engine.

Old, big diesel engines like the one in the Magirus can digest more or less any type of diesel no matter how bad the quality which is especially important if you travel through Africa. Other technical modifications are a

the 400L diesel tank, 140L fresh water tank, electrical system for appliances in the living cabin, solar charger, a big battery and much more. To also not spend a fortune on the car, they kept it simple but practical for example, there’s a wood stove as additional heating. All you need for your daily life is there: kitchen, bathroom, bed, living area and storage. Since Stefan is maintaining the car himself there are also many tools and spare parts on board.

If they were to pick one best moment from the trip, what would that be? Stefan answered, “To turn the key and just get on the road! We didn’t plan too much and didn’t do a long test drive. We more or less started from the blue. There are many people who plan their trips too long or take forever to build their vehicle and never really started the journey. The journey is the most important thing of all. Sooner or later you need to make the decision to start driving, and yes there would always be more things to plan or to adjust or change or repair on the car.”

Both of them agreed that the planning was enough and keeping the route flexible also adds to the experience.

The start came certainly a bit earlier than expected since Stefan resigned from his job and Gerti filed her one year leave so that they finally could hit the road. The journey took them through Austria, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran and to the UAE. The intended route went according to plan but when they reached UAE, the plans had to be altered because after several attempts to get a visa for Saudi Arabia have failed, their goal to reach Africa was out of reach.

The two globetrotters made the best out of the situation without any bad feelings.

So they spent the whole winter here and in Oman, still trying and hoping for their Saudi visa, but they also have an alternative plan

to go back via Jordan and Palestine or back the same route they came in because sooner or later time will be a problem.

Asking them about their best experiences on the road, they both agreed that seeing the different landscapes and cultures are amazing, but most of all, the nice people you meet on the way. They said wherever they went, they met helpful people but the more they got into the Middle East, the more this hospitality and kindness increased.

They told me about Mohammad, a truck driver in Oman who insisted to pay for their repairs after they were stranded on the road and he helped them out. And Syed from Abu Dhabi who invited them to stay with him in their family home and while they enjoyed Emirati hospitality, Syed managed to find the needed rims for their truck and refused to take any money from them. Not to mention all the invites for dinner and the amount of food people brought them is just so overwhelming that you could see how kindness enriches the lives of other people.

Gerti and Stefan agreed that this is certainly because it’s obvious that they are not from here and have been travelling through different countries using a huge home on wheels with German number plate.

They told me there were a lot of bad experiences and challenges too: “Our camera

and some documents got stolen in Turkey, but this was the only negative thing apart from all the hospitality in this country. The procedures to cross borders are challenging and can take up to more than one day, so you need to have patience. Repairs in places you don’t know and places you don’t speak the language are challenging as well.” They had to change flat tyres 15 times already and the rim got broken twice and they had to weld it. Thanks to Syed, the new rims should solve this issue.

What’s their advice for those who have globetrotting dreams? “Don’t get lost in planning, get on the road, enjoy the trip and the time you have. Most problems can be solved anyhow on the way.”

You might see Gerti and Stefan somewhere in the UAE or Oman in the next weeks since they like the region so much they are planning to further extend their stay. You can also get more info or get in contact with them on their website www.magirus-nomaden.de.

After finishing the interview, I left Al Ain and the Magirus Nomads with itchy feet and hoped that I will not get lost in planning and will one day realise my dream to travel the world. At least I made it here from my home country. I guess all expats will agree it was an adventure in the beginning, but after some years it became our new home, so let’s continue chasing the next dream!

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electrabike.com

The cycling lifestyle!

For roads, mountains or just plain Cruising!

BIKERS is a brand new full service bicycle superstore now open in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers. We stock brands such as Focus Bikes (the 2nd team in the last Tour De France), Electra lifestyle bikes, Nirve cruisers, Casco Helmets (Official partners of UCI) , Six Six One Helmets, Northwave Apparel and eye wear, DT Swiss Wheels, Minoura and Birzman accessories, Zone3 Triathlon gear and many other brands that’ll feed your passion for cycling. Visit us at Cluster-H, Promenade Level JLT.

Bikers is a new high-end bicycle

store in the emirate with a focus on German engineered bikes, complete range of components, latest clothing and everything cyclists need to feed their passion. Bikers Managing Director Puya Hariri talks about the local cycling community and their products.

What do you think of the cycling scene in the UAE? Cycling is definitely growing here. We have the Dubai Tour this year and there have been new cycle tracks built like the Nad Al Sheba and the Al Qudra Cycling course. There are more races and group rides organised, and the RTA is making Dubai more biker-friendly with the addition of more cycle paths. With the Expo 2020 coming up and its focus on sustainability, cycling fits in very well into Dubai’s future plans.

What are the benefits of cycling? Cycling is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to exercise. It builds stamina, strength

and muscle tone, improves cardiovascular fitness, eats up calories, improves heart health, coordination and reduces stress! I cycle from home to work, and I know not everyone has the luxury of doing that, but just a 30-minute ride has all the benefits above and it doesn’t even feel like exercise, but like a cruise around the neighborhood!

When did Bikers open? Bikers has been in the making for a whole year, but we’ve only been open a month. Putting together the right combination of products and services has taken a lot of time, but we’re very happy with the results and I think cyclists in Dubai will be very excited to see what’s available for them.

Tell us more about your products. There are many different types of riders here in the UAE, and we wanted to offer something special to each of them. We have the German engineered Focus Bikes – that won a stage at the most recent Tour De France and came second as a team – for the road racers and mountain bikers. There’s also the Casco helmets (partners with UCI) and we have both of the top two urban brands, California’s cult performance built in

ZONE3

brand Electra and fancy cruisers from Nirve for the fashion conscious riders around town.

Triathlon is also very popular and we have some of the best time trial bikes and a top triathlon apparel brand in Zone 3.

Why the UAE market? Until now, most of the bike shops have tended to focus on the serious road cyclists and racers. We have the Focus brand to cater to that, but we feel the casual cyclists have been neglected. In most coastal towns around the world you have a big community of urban riders and in places like Miami Beach almost half the bikes you’ll see are Electra! They are easy to clean and maintain, and because of the internal gears, less likely for sand and dirt to get in. Other types of bikes just can’t compete when it comes to looks! When you ride an Electra or Nirve, you’ll turn heads wherever you go!

Are these bikes suitable for kids? Yes, Electra is really big on kids’ bikes. My nineyear-old niece loves them!

Do you also provide repair/maintenance services? We have highly trained technicians. We offer comprehensive and professional repair and building services for all types of bicycles. We offer complete full services to a mere puncture fixes. We carry a full range of replacement parts and accessories, and are happy to kit out the super high-end bikes as well the traditional ones.

Bring in your bike in the morning and we’ll give it back to you in the evening. That’s a quick same day turnaround with no extra charge. We also offer a pickup and delivery service which has a three-day turnaround.

How do you plan to bring the community together? We want to start a ride for parents and kids to join in, this will encourage everyone to start enjoying cycling from a young age. We will have a booth at the Dubai Tour and we’ll be present in most of the races happening this season.

Check out Bikers store at H Cluster, Promenade level, Jumeirah Lake Tower, Dubai, UAE. For more information, visit www. allbikers.net or contact info@allbikers.net.

performance built in

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MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

LIFESTYLE

Habitually healthy

“The Animal” Grass-fed Beef Burger Words By: Chef Christopher Zerbe

Happy New Year everyone! We hope you all had a safe and healthy one! So who made New Year’s Resolutions? Lots of people vow to go on diet and cut back on alcohol or fried food or even say they will exercise regularly.

This is a great idea and has been proven to work time and again… so why hasn’t it worked for you? As a chef, I am asked this question constantly. Why is it so hard to change, to give up that which we know is not good for us? These questions are very common and are usually pretty easy to answer. There’s no secret to getting healthy; there’s no quick fix either. There must be a conscious effort along with a true desire to be healthy, to feel better, to have more energy and focus. Now, there are many different paths that you can take. Personally I think that with the correct combination of diet, exercise and stress reduction, pretty much anyone can achieve a healthy lifestyle.

Please note that I used the word “lifestyle.” I use this word because that is the culmination of how we are living our daily lives – from sleep, to breakfast, to snacks, to work, to lunch, to dinner, to the gym, etc. The most important thing to remember is to keep it simple and attainable. Personally I have set out to lose 25kg over a period of 10 months.

That’s 2.5kg per month. A very reasonable amount. First thing I did was to cut out sugar in my coffee, eat bread only once per week (proving to be much harder than I thought), eat more salads with lean proteins and of course cycle. So far I am down approximately 12 pounds but over the holidays, I slipped a bit and gained back two. What to do?

Realistic remember! So in short, be sure to eat healthy (cut out the grains, sugar, sodium rich foods), exercise regularly (get that heart rate up for 20 minutes at least!) and reduce your stress! Here’s a recipe for one of our most popular dishes!

Ingredients: 220g

Grass-fed beef mince

1g

Minced garlic

5g

Minced onion

1g

Sea salt

.5g

Crushed black pepper

1g

Chopped fresh thyme

1g

Chopped fresh rosemary

1g

Dried oregano

2ea

Fresh Romaine leaves (washed and trimmed)

4ea

Slices organic heirloom tomatoes

4ea

Cremini mushrooms

½ea

Portobello mushroom (sliced thick, “gills” intact!)

½ea

Small red onion

5-10 ml Coconut oil (for sautéing the mushrooms and onions)

Method: • In a chilled mixing bowl, combine the fresh beef mince, the garlic, onion, herbs, salt and pepper.

• Mix together gently so as to keep the meat tender and not over handled!

• Form a single beef “patty” to your desired thickness (for me at least one inch thick!)

• Next place an index finger sized dimple in the center without breaking all the way through • (This will ensure that as the meat shrinks, it will keep its flat shape instead of resembling a bad meatball.)

• Wash your hands • Place the bed of Romaine lettuce on the plate, and place the tomato slices on top.

(Season with sea salt and black pepper) • Grill the beef patty till it is to your desired doneness. (Medium well is usually the standard, but I still prefer mine a little less done!)

• Now heat the coconut oil in a shallow fry pan, toss in the onion and sliced mushrooms and sauté till golden brown and a bit crispy on the edges.

• Place the burger patty on the bed of Lettuce and heirloom tomatoes, then top with all the mushrooms and onions!

Nice and simple. You have a juicy and delicious healthy burger that you don’t have to feel guilty eating! Enjoy!

The Cycle Bistro GPS location: Latitude: N 25° 02.792 Longitude: E 055° 14.384 Phone: 04 425 6555

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W

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

ater Ski akeboarding ater Surfing

Running on sea is a zealous adventure Your wish to do something unusual can take you up the high mountains of the Himalayas or to the forests of Africa, but what if you dare to rule the water by walking on it or something close that? Gliding across the glassy surface of the water with the wind blowing in your hair is definitely a unique feeling and we can thank water sports for giving that opportunity to us.

Here in UAE, water sport activities have boomed in the last few years. Dubai beaches have provided a recreational platform for a variety of sports that can be enjoyed with minimal effort. The coastline is littered with open beaches, varied sea conditions make it possible to enjoy the rough or the smooth tides of the Arabian Gulf. The residential development such as the Dubai Marina or The Palm Jumeirah in here have provided easy accessibility and comfort.

Aside from being popular recreational activities enjoyed by the masses, waterskiing, surfing and wakeboarding are also ever-growing competitive sports. Conquer the water with your tremendous ski stunts!

Within eye blink, everything with the water gets easier. From the moment you strap in, you will feel something is different. Wakeboarding, waterskiing, surfing are some of the most exciting and exhilarating water sports to enjoy in the UAE, making them the perfect pastime for those looking for fun and adventure while in Dubai and Abu Dhabi!

Al Yousuf Motors always encourages water sports enthusiasts and carries the world-leading brands Yamaha and JOBE Sports in UAE. Purchase necessities: • Check quality which you will find in Jobe Sports accessories in Al Yousuf Motors.

• Purchase surfing and skiing items that are suitable for your weight and height.

Size chart wakeboards/skis Rider weight (lbs)

Wakeboard/Skis length(cm)

Less than 100

Less than 130

90-150

130-134

130-180

135-139

170-250

140-144

200-275+

144+

Safety precautions: • Check weather forecast and sea waves or swells.

• Check water sports for designated venues or areas prohibited by RTA. • Avoid dangerous area with rocks.

• Always wear personal floating device, gloves and helmet.

• Check handle rope and its strength • Always observe for boats while riding It is always recommended that you chose quality safety items through authorised dealers such as Al Yousuf Motors where not only quality is priority, but the prices are very competitive. You can find Al Yousuf Showrooms throughout the UAE. From training to supplying complete water sports safety items, Al Yousuf Motors is always there to assist you in your adventurous endeavors and we always put customer’s satisfaction first.

Contact Al Yousuf at aym-accessories@ alyousuf.com or +971 50 3790737.

Nocqua 2000 White LED Light System Toggle 1, 800 AED

Available at GO Sport (UAE) The Dubai Mall, (Abu Dhabi) Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, and (Qatar) Villaggio Mall and City Centre Doha The Nocqua 2000 contains everything you need to get started with the most extraordinary night paddling experience you have ever had. The system is flexible, durable and can be adjusted to fit all SUPs, kayaks and canoes. Plus, it is an excellent way to light up the night on land at your campsite, workstation or wherever you need light. The set includes: two waterproof white LED light bars in a track system connected by our proprietary adjustable harness system, one 12V rechargeable water resistant lithium-ion battery, one UL approved 110V battery charger, one “Y” connector so one battery can power both light bars and extension straps for larger kayaks and canoes.

Nocqua Spectrum Color LED Light System 2,000 AED

Available at GO Sport (UAE) The Dubai Mall, (Abu Dhabi) Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, and (Qatar) Villaggio Mall and City Centre Doha Various colors and three modes, the Nocqua Spectrum is the latest development from Nocqua Adventure Gear and features the same flexible and durable design that paddlers love about the NOCQUA 2000, but now with the colours you have been asking for. The set includes an in-line switch which allows you to choose between red, blue, green, purple, teal, orange, bright white and low white with the press of a button. Other modes are colour hold, party mode and SOS strobe.

The set includes: two waterproof, seven-colour LED light bars in a track system connected by our proprietary adjustable harness system, in-line switch, one 12V rechargeable water resistant lithium-ion battery, one UL approved 110V battery charger, one “Y” connector so one battery can power both light bars and extension straps for larger kayaks and canoes.

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T R &I E D

TESTED ODUC THIS PR

PROV T IS AP

OUTDOO ED BY

RUAE

A new rugged action cam in the Middle East The Optrix case turns your phone to a sports cam Words + Photos By: Daniel Birkhofer

There was a time when one company and its little camera didn’t have much competition, and they took over the outdoor and adventure market with an inexpensive camera that is conveniently sized with good image and video quality, and of course, a rugged case that can withstand impact, dust and water.

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OUTDOORUAE

With the success story of the GoPro, many companies pursued this new and promising market.

Today competition is fierce and every year new cameras and gadgets are introduced as turnkey solution or additional accessories that can turn your camera or smartphone into an action cam.

After testing a protective phone case last month, we are now trying out something that is more than just phone “armour.” The PhotoProX makes your iPhone an effective action camera for photo and video use.

I like the approach of multi-tools; one device

that serves almost all of your daily needs and even for those outdoor and active weekends.

My wife and I have this little charging station

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Flat lens (equal to normal view angle of the iPhone)

on our study to power up all the gadgets we have, so it is a welcome relief if you can use one mutli-tasking gadget and get rid of the some of the chargers and cables. When in the outdoors, weight and reducing everything to only the necessities are important. You want to be mobile and travel light without leaving anything you need or want at home. The needs are certainly in the foreground and taking a phone with you is a must and a safety precaution in case you need to call for help. You will need to have a phone with you in most cases and if these phone have good image and video quality, it is an obvious step to make it fully outdoor capable.

Optrix addressed this need and developed one of the nicest and best cases I have come across. The name PhotoProX directly highlights the option for taking images and recording videos. The great thing about this case is that not only is it waterproof to up to 10m and shock resistant to drops up to 9m, it also has interchangeable photo lenses which adds a whole new dimension to the case and to your iPhone. The case comes also with its own app adding other video features to your phone.

There are four lenses available: a flat lens for clear underwater images; a 10x magnification macro lens; a 175° fisheye lens; and 2x telephoto lens which are all included in the PhotoProX bundle. The smaller bundles come only with a single lens. You should not underestimate the benefits of these optical lenses.

Rather than digital effects or filters, optical lenses keep the original quality of the photo while adding a zoom factor or fisheye effect.

Post effects will always reduce the original image quality.

The app from Optrix allows overlays of

No marco lens

Macro lens

Fish-eye lens (photo capture)

location, speed and with additional accessories also the gear, acceleration of your car, your heart rate which are all great options for your outdoor or action sport.

A long list of accessories and mounts are available so you can fit your phone wherever you want. One little thing I like is the mount for a standard tripod; it’s compatible with any tripod, gorilla arm or camera rig you already have.

Since we are not testing the iPhone for its great photo and video quality, we will focus on the case, it’s durability and if it can enhance the iPhone’s features.

The setup Attaching the case to the phone is super easy and fast as you want it to be. The only thing you should keep in mind is to remove any additional protection even the scratch film on the screen if you have one. The case is built to perfectly fit the phone and other additional thickness like a thin protection film might cause the phone to get stuck in the case. Put your phone first in the protective case (comes with the housing) and then in the housing, close the heavy duty lock, put a silicon O-ring seal in the threaded opening before you screw on one of the lenses – and you’re done! The whole process is finished in seconds. You will not miss any of the iPhone features while it is well protected in the case, even the touch screen and the main function buttons work.

The test The test started with some challenges, which are quite common if you try to view a screen in bright sunlight. Unfortunately it is very hard to see the display and therefore to change the settings and start recording. If you are more familiar with the app and the phone it certainly is easier to know where to press even if you can’t see much. The case slightly adds to the trouble since it is shiny, so you also have distracting reflections. If it’s not dazzling daylight conditions, it works well. When you have overcome this hiccup, you can focus on the important things.

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Tele

The auto focus works well with the lenses no matter which lens you use. With the macro lens you should be aware that you need to keep close distance to the object, otherwise the phone will not find any objects in focus range.

The choice of using different lenses is great and gives you more creative freedom. The fisheye lens works best with video since the image frame is smaller than using in photo mode which generates a spherical effect with black borders.

Video recording is as simple as pressing one button on the screen. The phone is focusing well at the centre with the case installed and the colours are bright and rich. You can record either with the Optrix app or the normal camera app. The image quality and recoding in my opinion is identical; the only difference is that with the Optrix app you have more options like blending in the speed or route overlays. (GPRS signal required during recording) Fitting the Optrix phone case with the different mounts is also easy. It gives you the freedom to fit it in almost any position. As mentioned, the image and video quality is great but the phone struggles a bit to take bumps and vibrations which are showing in the recordings, but going through the dunes with a Fat Bike is a challenge for any action cam.

Using the iPhone for handheld recordings or mounted to the car will not show any issues with vibrations.

Also not a surprise, the sound of the recording is not as good as without the case. But this is a general problem with waterproof cases or housings since the microphone is sealed and covered inside.

If you are an Apple follower and using an iPhone, I would definitely recommend you the Optrix case because you can get so much more out of you phone. Especially if you use your videos and photos mainly on the web and social media, you can even process everything conveniently in your phone.

The Optrix case makes good on its promise – to transform your iPhone into an action sports camera. Apart from that, they also protect your phone from any external hazard allowing you take it wherever you want without fear of destroying it.

There is a long list of amazing accessories available to further pimp out your now multitool phone (check out www.optrix.com). The only hitch I could find is that this amazing hard plastic is only available for iPhones and unfortunately not for other smartphones. We hope this will change in future.

PhotoProX with four lenses is priced at 750 AED. The phone case will be launched mid February and will be initially available at Virgin Megastores, IQ and Micro.

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MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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PRODUCTS A round-up of quality products available right here in the UAE

Zéfal FP 30 195 AED

Available at Revolution Cycles, Intersport, Probike, Fun Ride, Adventure HQ and Decathlon Gauge with magnifying lens, easy Z-Switch system to fits all valves types, steel barrel, extra-long hose – you have it all for a good price.

Zéfal Profil Travel 245 AED

Available at Adventure HQ, Revolution Cycles, Probike, Intersport and Fun Ride The Profil Travel is a compact floor pump with an incline gauge and double head connection (Presta and Schrader). Its small size and carrying bag makes it ideal for storing in your car or suitcase and it remains a very strong and efficient pump (10 bar/145psi max).

Fusion Technology JP Australia boards

6,600 AED Wood Sandwich Gloss (photo on the left) 6,000 AED Wood Sandwich 4,750 AED AST 995 AED cut to length 65% carbon paddle Available at Adventure HQ These multi-purpose SUPs have a different shape concept and are slightly more wave oriented than the JP Allround boards.

The bottom shapes of the 9’8” and 10’2” feature a single concave throughout running into a V towards the tail. Their noses create efficient lift and the rails produce good bite during turns. Quite a bit of nose rocker makes them fit well into the waves. The 10’8” x 34” is the widest board in the JP range. It has a slight single concave in the center of the board which runs into an increasing V towards the tail. The V in the tail helps to rail up this big and wide board when going down a wave.

They work for any level of SUPer from beginners to flat water cruisers as well as for first time wave riders and wave experts. They all come with a thruster setup and FCS nose plugs for your Go Pro camera.

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Premium Motorcycle Helmets Shark RAW 1,500 AED

• Constructed from injected thermoplastic • Outside anti-scratch and inside anti-fog visor • Quick release visor system • Optical comfort for the persons wearing glasses • 2: shell sizes: optimal morphological adjustment • Micro lock buckle system • Use the delicates or cold cycle and place inside a washing net • Planned location for Sharktooth

Speed R

1,700 AED • Constructed from multiaxial glass fiber • Anti-scratch visor • Visor can be fitted with a max Pinlock film insert • Integrated UV380 Label & anti-scratch • Quick release visor system • Optical comfort for the persons wearing glasses • 2: shell sizes: optimal morphological adjustment • Double D-ring strap • Use the delicates or cold cycle and place inside a washing net • Planned location for Sharktooth

Evoline Series 3 1,800 AED

• Constructed from injected thermoplastic • Outside anti-scratch and inside anti-fog visor • Integrated UV380 label and anti-scratch • Quick release visor system • Optical comfort for the persons wearing glasses • 2: shell sizes: optimal morphological adjustment • Micro lock buckle system • Use the delicates or cold cycle and place inside a washing net • Planned location for Sharktooth Available at Liberty Kawasaki, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Tel. 04 501 9417 / 04 341 9341

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PRODUCTS Light My Fire Outdoor Meal Kit

95 AED

Available at Adventure HQ Times Square Center All you need to prepare and eat a meal when out and about. Perfect for your backpack, boat, bike or picnic basket. Includes: 1) lid/plate, designed with round corners to allow you to spork up every little bit; 2) bowl/plate with spork holder; 3) spork original (spoon-fork-knife combo); 4) pack-up-cup with lid, collapsible and measuring lines; 5) combined strainer and cutting board; 6) snapBox original, waterproof and measuring lines. 7) SnapBox oval, waterproof and measuring lines; 8) harness to keep everything tight inside.

Features: easy to clean, taste-free material, stain-taste and odour resistant, BPA-free, microwave safe, dishwasher safe, floats and stackable.

• Microwave safe • Dishwasher safe • Floats • Material: PP - polypropolene, spork made of Tritan, harness made of TPE. • Actual size: 194 x 194 x 61mm • Weight: 384g

Light Me Fire Spork Titanium 75 AED

Available at Adventure HQ Times Square Center The Spork Titanium is made of titanium, one of the toughest alloys on the planet.

Titanium is widely used in aircraft construction because of its lightness and extreme strength, yet it is also used in surgical and dental implants. Its high biocompatibility means that it is very non-toxic and is not rejected by the body. Great for your next outing, no matter where it is. Same design as the Spork original.

• Polished surface means no metallic taste • Dishwasher safe • Non-corrosive, non-magnetic • Hypoallergenic

Jobe Sports Skis Packages 1,000 AED (whole package)

Available at Al Yousuf Motors Showrooms in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Al Ain, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah Enjoy UAE seashores in style. Jobe is one leading brands in the water sports industry and has an extensive range of stylish products.

Available sizes: 59”, 62”, 63”, 65” and 67” Includes: Jobe Ski, Universal Classic Vest, Classic Handle, Display Box and Flag

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Newton Running’s

BOCO AT 650 AED

Available at Adventure HQ in March 2014. Contact 04 289 6001 or visit www.sportinlife.ae for more information.

BoCo AT, neutral all-terrain trainer. Born in Boulder, Colorado, the BoCo AT brings you a piece of the Colorado Mountains wherever your run takes you. The light and level 3mm drop, and multi-directional lugs, will keep you rocking out on even the rockiest of trails.

While the landscape may change, the familiar Newton feeling remains the same. Rain, snow, hail and spilled coffee are no match for the durable all-weather upper. It is time to take your Newtons over the river and through the wadis.

• Outsole employs multi-directional lugs to provide optimal grip on uneven terrain • The closed-mesh upper blocks out dirt and debris • Upper materials have been treated with a durable water repellant coating • Outsole features a four-lug cushioning technology in the forefoot for superior impact-zone protection • Upper features a laser-perforated synthetic suede saddle for a midfoot-conforming fit • A 3mm drop from heel to toe provides a low profile and stable ride • Thick, non-slip laces stay tied over the long haul • Soft, single-density EVA midsole provides optimal cushioning and comfort • Durable rubber toe bumper protects toes from impact on rocks, roots and other trail hazards

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OUR EXPERTS

Wahiiba Challenge 2013

Photos By: Marina Bruce, Debra Galvin and Murray Kinnaird

Marina Bruce

is The Desert Diva – read her blog at www.thedesertdiva.com Oasis Offroad is a free to join offroad club based in Al Ain offering family trips and overland adventures in the beautiful sand dunes of Al Ain and beyond. Their website is www.oasis-offroad.com and their Facebook page is www.facebook.com/ OasisOffroad

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The Wahiba Challenge is an annual event run by the Oman-based Ras Al Hamra Off Road Adventure Club (ORAC for short). It’s open to members of the club, and others by special invitation; Oasis Offroad were delighted at being allowed to participate.

The weather forecast for the original date in November 2013 proved an insurmountable challenge to the organisers and they had to call it off 24 hours beforehand. They were right to do so – the area experienced one of its most prolonged storms for

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many years and some of the event’s emergency get out tracks ended up under two metres of water!

A new date in 2014 was scheduled and 26 teams, including Oasis Overlanders from Oasis Offroad gathered on the edge of the Wahiba Sands on the evening of 17th January, ready to battle our way some 60kms to the east.

The Wahiba Challenge is now in its 16th year and is very well organised with solid safety rules, pre-event

training and lots of support from the ORAC committee; it got off to a very good start as we all enjoyed a delicious buffet dinner provided by their gold sponsor, Omantel.

Friday morning saw the event kick off with a 7:30am meeting when ORAC Chairman Fahim welcomed everyone and delivered a safety briefing, before a photo call for all participants and support staff – over 300 people.

Our Oasis Offroad team are used

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to long distance overland trips – everyone in the convoy is accustomed to driving up to 150km in a day through Liwa – so we thought that 32km straight lining might not be much of a challenge. We were wrong!

In a foreign land, driving over unfamiliar territory turned out to be a huge challenge; the Wahiba is tricky at the best of times travelling from east to west.

Aside from the Empty Quarter, the sands are the largest sand desert area of Oman and stretch 170km from north to south and 100km from east to west. The dunes are in regular lines in a north-south orientation and with the prevailing wind from the sea they build up in the east and fall off into slipfaces on the westward side.

The west to east route proved exceptionally tough as we were going against the dunes with many high climbs through soft sand, interspersed with lots of plants and scrub. The biggest challenge to our team, who are all used to the beautiful “naked” sands of Liwa, were the plants – it seemed like we were driving through a garden at times. For the non-off-roaders, I must explain that every time you hit a bump it saps your car’s momentum, so we had to very carefully pick our lines when ascending the dunes. It’s not very comfortable for the driver or their passengers either.

Once on top of the ridgelines, we had to contend with tricky, small technical dunes which were extremely soft and made the drive hard work for us all – most cars had to engage 4LOW on a regular basis to get through the choppiest of terrain.

The first objective of the challenge was to reach the designated camp spot by nightfall which is around 5:30pm, but at 5:15pm we were still 9km short of our target. On speaking to one of the organisers the next day, it turns out that half the challenge teams hadn’t made it to the campsite – driving in

the dark is prohibited under the event rules – so about 100 people, including our team of nine, were dotted around the Wahiba Sands on Friday night. It was to our advantage though as we benefitted from a very peaceful, comfortable and scenic campsite where South African Mike cooked up a braai feast which we enjoyed immensely.

Oasis Overlanders hoped to gain a little time the next day so we were up early and left our camp about 7:30am to take advantage of the damp sand courtesy of the early morning dew. Over the course of the day the dune conditions changed with the red sand of the west giving way to softer, whiter sand nearer the sea.

We had to “medevac” one car out – Karen’s Land Cruiser wouldn’t change into low ratio gear so we took advantage of one of the many north-south sandtracks and Tom accompanied her out to the safety of the blacktop. After progressing at less than 9km per hour the previous day we were all

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

slightly envious that he had achieved speeds of 100km/h along the sand track!

Vince continued to blaze a trail over the dune lines and we all breathed a collective sigh of relief when we saw the organiser’s encampment at the end of the trail. It turned out that despite starting 9km from the campsite, we were one of the earliest teams to check in at the end.

At the time of writing we don’t know how Oasis Overlanders’ performance compared against the other teams, but we did have a challenging drive with lots of highs and lows.

The main competition is based on photos – documenting our favourite nature, action and stuck shots – and we have good entries for each category.

ORAC have been kind enough to invite us back next year and perhaps we will take up the challenge again, but we also hope to pay back their friendship and hospitality by inviting them on one of our Liwa trips in the near future.

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OUR EXPERTS

A fast ride

John

Moto/ATV and all round adventure seeker

After many failed attempts, Pavel and I finally managed to secure a weekend that we were both off. We only rode together on one previous occasion, but my aging 250 had an oil transfer problem and the ride was cut short. We did however realise that we were virtually on the same level of riding and were looking forward to future rides.

The idea was to try and do 200km at a faster pace than the normal social riding. The distance combined with what I thought was “fast” did not allow for “social” riders to join. I sent an invitation on FB and invited some

riders from Dubai. I made sure that everyone was clear regarding the level and experience required to join us.

Michael Mollard, Kaan, Stephen and Kobus replied to the invite and, as I have never met them, gave Michael a call to make sure every body “was up to speed” regarding the intentions.

Totaling eight riders (four Al Ain and four Dubai) – and as I often do with bigger groups – I was keen to film the ride and wanted to get some more footage using my VIRB camera. As the VIRB has the ability to record speed, and it was also the first ride on my Honda 450 after a recent upgrade, this could only be a good ride!

As the Dubai riders arrived, I noticed two of the bikes were not your usual weekend toys, but rather serious rally bikes. Similar to those one would use in the Dakar (Ok, so they have nice bikes. Let’s see if they can ride them).

Pavel was to lead the first section from Al Ain to the gas station in Al Khazna, then I would lead to Sweihan and Pavel again from there to Al Ain. Total of about 185km and this would give me sufficient time to film the guys.

Normally, when I film I would brief the guys of my intentions and on what side I will be riding to have the best lighting. Then I would start at the back, move to the front and then fall back again whilst riding/filming. This way I get everybody on film and all can enjoy the video afterwards.

It was less than 20km into the ride that I realised the filming was going to be a bit more difficult than anticipated.

These guys were not there to get filmed, they came to ride! By the time we reached Al Khazna, I think I managed to get to the front once maybe twice, and then only for a short while!

It seemed the only way to film these guys was to get a head start every time we stopped and just film them as they passed me. Clearly these guys knew what they were doing and for me it was a very fast ride. Maybe one of the fastest I have done whilst filming.

Kobus however had to “retire”

about half-way to Sweihan as he was already on strong pain pills that he took during the refueling in Al Khazna.

He had sprained his wrist some weeks prior to this ride and thought that it had recovered. He had to swap bikes with Kaan who was riding a light MX bike and easier to handle than the heavy rally bike he was riding. Even this was too painful and a decision to leave Kobus at the garage in Sweihan was made. The guys would then pick him up on their way back to Dubai.With all the delays, Stephen asked if he could lead us back. He had the waypoints in his GPS and was keen to be in the front. I vaguely recall seeing the bikes as they disappeared in a cloud of dust.

Filming was not even an option as the only thing on my mind was trying to keep up with these guys. Clearly giving me a new perspective on what I had previously thought was “fast riding.”

Pavel however managed to comfortably keep up with the visitors leaving Robert and me to form our own duo some distance behind the rest. After the ride, I was very keen to get home and start editing the video. I knew that there had to be at least some good shots and with the added bonus of seeing how fast I was actually riding.

I would rather not go into details as to my selection in vocabulary when I started editing. As Clint was the last one to use the VIRB, (we were still sharing it after our review on the camera) and he mounted it upside-down in his car, he had selected the camera to record in that mode. He never returned it to normal mode, nor did I check this prior to use. This caused all the overlays to be upside down once the video clips were rotated upright during editing! Needless to say all the overlays were omitted.Still it was an awesome ride and thanks to all those riders who assisted in resetting my perception on what I used to call a “fast ride!”

Go for gold and ride safe!

John

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DUBAI MALL BAWABAT AL SHARQ MALL VILLAGIO MALL DOHA CITY CENTRE ABU DHABI MALL MUSCAT GRAND MALL

TRAVEL: 100mm

PLATFORM OVERVIEW

Distributed by:

Tel: +971 4 289 6001 E-mail: info@sportinlife.ae Web: www.sportinlife.ae Facebook.com/Sportinlife

13.2KG

DARK QUANTUM/ DELTA GREEN

SINGLE TRACK TRAIL

PEOPLE

Tati Coco SUP Occupation: Language teacher

at DESC and SUP instructor Nationality: Spanish Age: 33

Apart from enjoying paddling all over the world, this SUP instructor loves sharing the SUP spirit to her pupils or anyone interested to learn in a fun and responsible way.

How did you get into SUP’ing?

I have always loved the water. However, I was extremely intimidated by the open water as I had only swum in lakes, pools and rivers.

The first thing that attracted me to SUP was the inflatable board. I bought my first 10’6” inflatable Red Paddle Co in New Caledonia and I immediately realised that this sport was perfect for me because I love to travel, explore and discover. Red Paddle Co helped me a lot in all my projects and adventures. As I said before, I was really scared to experience the mysterious sea, but SUP gave me the opportunity to overcome this fear and after lots of practice I have become completely addicted to this sport.

How do you balance your time for work and SUP? It’s easy. I have only one life and I don’t waste seconds of it in front of the TV, bars or parties.

I’m hyperactive and I need to be busy all the time. At DESC, I was teaching SUP, surfing, rock climbing and basketball. In Term 2, I’m a personal trainer for students and we go three times a week at the gym for endurance, interval training and some CrossFit lifting. We try to keep fit for the UAE SUP league and different events. I also teach boxing on Thursdays. After school, I try to spend time with the SUP kids.

They make me so happy. They give me a lot of love and they’re really funny!

What is your teaching approach?

We learn by having fun and having a good time. I never get upset with them and I don’t need to be strict as they are lovely. They love SUP so everything comes easy. I think they behave better than me. I do really crazy and funny exercises and I can see the question in their eyes, “what are you doing, Miss?!”

Sometimes it is really messy and disorganised, but it’s because they really did well and we

celebrate by jumping off our boards, shouting funny things and teasing our mates. I’m absolutely not strict but I have to say that I know what I’m doing and with good results. I just believe in fun, fun and fun.

What’s a common feedback you hear from your students?

I asked them to write something about me.

Dom wrote, “She hits me with flip-flops hahaha… she is an inspiration.” Alice wrote, “She jumped from a wall of 3m on the board and started paddling.” James wrote, “She put other people before herself; she is so funny.” Jenny wrote, “She is pure power, always smiling. She’s like a mum and takes care of us and our safety.”

What do you think of SUP’s growing popularity here in the region?

Every day I can see more and more SUP in the water. I think we are a big community in the UAE, the weather and the conditions are perfect for this, including the summer in spite of the heat, if you wake up early you can enjoy nice flatwater and the sunrise.

What’s the best part about this sport?

They are all amazing! You can get fit, enjoy the nice weather of the UAE, be with friends, see turtles or dolphins, discover amazing places, have a real adventure, or race.

What’s your advice to those who want to get into the sport?

SUP is not just about a board and a paddle.

SUP can offer multiple activities like SUP yoga, SUP pilates, SUP race, SUP adventure, SUP whitewater, SUP all around or just SUP tanning [laughs]! My advice is to enjoy it alone or with friends or family, you can get fit and at the same time have fun. It’s better for the beginner to start with an instructor but this sport is quite easy and just with common sense you can get it very quickly.

What are your plans for 2014?

In April, I would like to go and explore some places like Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka. I still haven’t decided where to go. But my biggest project will be in seven months; I would like to paddle around the Baleares Island in Spain – Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. I think this will be an amazing exploring experience. I will spend one month paddling every day and as far as I will be able to.

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PEOPLE

Mahmood Shalan Occupation: Athlete Nationality: Emirati Age: 20

After winning the recent Emirates Fitness Championship, finishing at 11th place in the Dubai Fitness Championship last year and becoming the first Red Bull CrossFit athlete, the newcomer to the sport is setting the pace for Emiratis who are passionate about CrossFit. How did you get into CrossFit? I’ve been into sports ever since I was young; from basketball to bodybuilding and conditioning. When I first found out about CrossFit – a sport that combines strength, conditioning and gymnastics – a year ago, I knew it was for me.

How did you prepare for the Dubai Fitness Championship?

Hard work and dedication. I’ve put so much work to it, from waking up at dawn to training late night workouts in order to make my body used to training at anytime and anywhere despite my physical condition.

What are the toughest parts of the competition for you?

The toughest part is knowing your competitors

who are known to be the fittest in the world.

Being able to compete against them was a privilege and a big motivation for me. Competing three days in a row was hard since it drains you physically and mentally.

Was the competition tough between the athletes?

It’s how tough your mind makes it. I believe in mental strength and that it’s all in your mind.

Therefore I think in every competition between athletes it’s tough but you prove it in the field.

What’s your daily training like?

I start off my morning with gymnastics and some cycling. My lunch workout is normally a metcon (metabolic conditioning) or let’s say CrossFit workout. My evenings I would work on strength and heavyweight lifting.

What do you think are your strongest or weakest points?

I always believe that I need to work on everything to always progress. Since my back and recently my foot have been injured, I’ve cut back on some exercises such as sprints, which I want to work on as well as Olympic lifting in order to build more muscle. My strength lies in conditioning. I’m able to perform workouts in a short period with RX numbers which I’m thankful to Allah for.

Some think that CrossFit WODs are brutal, is it really as hard as it looks?

CrossFit is a sport that has contradictions like any other sport, yet it’s up to each individual to believe what they think. In order to be fit, you need to exhaust your body and lungs and that’s what CrossFit is about – making you a stronger, fitter person. Hard in CrossFit is considered good as it’s here where you progress.

What are the benefits of CrossFit training?

The benefits are limitless, from being fit and strong to having a nice physique. CrossFit is known for variance which is important in any

training program as it is when you’re out of your comfort zone that you progress. As they always say in CrossFit, routine is the enemy, which I strongly believe in.

What do you enjoy most about CrossFit? I enjoy competing against myself and seeing how good I get on a daily basis. Setting a time cap for myself and trying to reach that keeps me motivated which is what I love about CrossFit. Another thing I love is how CrossFit makes you better at other sports. It never gets boring in CrossFit, everyday is a shock for your body.

What is your advice for those who want to get into CrossFit? Always listen to your body yet don’t make excuses, push yourself and remember pain is temporary quitting is forever. Be tough, be strong and remember, it’s all in your mind. No pain, no gain.

What are the best WODs for you?

The best WODs are the toughest WODs which includes muscle ups and handstand push-ups.

I always like to work on my weaknesses till I get them and now I’m quite good at these movements which built my core and upper body to other movements.

What’s your plan for this 2014?

To get better, stronger and fitter than ever. I want to be able to compete internationally and make my country proud. Lastly, I would like to thank everyone who supported me and was there for me.

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PEOPLE

The ultimate riding buddy Words By: Pavel Annenkov

Our life is full of surprises! And that is a great thing. Because if it wasn’t, I would not be kicked to write this, but I honestly think that I should.

I’ve lived in Al Ain, UAE for 11 years.

And as far as I remember, I have always been attracted to the magnificent beauty of the sands. Soon after my arrival I tried my first go on the quad bike and got intoxicated forever by the feeling of freedom it gave me.

Many things have changed since then: different bikes, different places, types of riding, but one thing remained the same. It was the fact that I was riding alone.

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Not that I’m a solo kind of guy, but it was always hard to find a riding partner who suits your riding style. That is just one thing.

Another thing is that due to my working schedule I could hardly afford myself to plan rides with people who had regular weekends on actual weekend days. So I gave up on finding anyone to share riding with and even if given a chance I would rather skip it.

That was until this year when life turned up with one of those surprises!

I met another rider in Al Ain with the big help of my moto supportive wife. It was just like a miracle. We had an awesome ride, but Mike was going to leave for almost a month! In order to keep me with good company, he gave my number to another rider and it wasn’t more than a week when I got the text: “Hey there, riding tomorrow?”

That’s how I met John Basson. As it turned out later, we co-existed in two parallel worlds having the same passion, riding in exact same areas but never coming across each other. Well, maybe our bikes tracks did!

Before I met John, I thought I was passionate about all things motorsports. That was before. From the first ride, I realised just how intense this guy is about his hobby.

But that is not what makes John stand out from all the others who breathe riding. John spreads the energy and passion to others.

He makes riders out of the totally useless kind of us! He inspires confidence and makes people believe they can do it; and the way he does it – he rides with them all.

Being a very skilled, experienced and fast rider, John is not only after speed and self satisfaction. He will ride with everyone from the barely walking four-year-old to the fastest rally freak, bike or quad just to make sure everyone had an awesome experience. That not only involves riding, but the whole atmosphere of it: talking about bikes and motorsports, taking pictures, shooting videos of you riding your bike. How many of us dreamt of sharing a footage of your proud self riding your hell of a machine?

John will provide that. He would put so many people together so they could ride, chat, share and be happy. His price for all that is just that huge smile on your face. He is the ultimate riding buddy. Our sport lives because of people like John Basson, who lives full throttle. So if you plan a ride and have no one to go with, get in touch with John and you will have that smile on your face. Promise!

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

LOCATIONS

Skateboarding

in the UAE Words By: Baxter Jackson

Skateboarding in the UAE is a lot like Dubai itself– sometimes glamorous, always cosmopolitan and most assuredly dynamic.

From rolling with royalty like the Ruler of Dubai’s niece at Tashkeel, an artist’s enclave with a skate ramp in the shape of its Arabic namesake, to rubbing elbows with celebrity action hero Tony Hawk under the canopy of the billowy ghaf trees in the adjacent wooden bowl, UAE’s skate scene is bringing in the big names and the glam that goes with it.

All royalties and celebrities aside, the cosmopolitan aspects of the local skate landscape – evident throughout the Emirates – is best exemplified with a recent session at Al Ain’s Town Square where the marble is so smooth it casts a reflection. As the minarets of the Sheikha Salama mosque rang out with the evening call to prayer over the square, I counted six different nationalities on- board at the plaza: Serbian, Bangladeshi, Syrian, Filipino, Emirati and me, Texan. Amidst this cacophony of languages and cultures, I realised we all had one thing in common – our love of skateboarding.

This love of skateboarding has played a major part in the dynamics of the scene from the beginning – and while certainly past their prime, the old concrete half-pipes at the lushly landscaped Al Mamzar Beach Park and the Abu Dhabi Corniche Skatepark, have certainly paved the way for the relatively recent wooden additions of Hayya Springs, Al Tashkeel and the indoor bowl above Rage skate shop in the Dubai Mall.

With skateboarding sales growing by 40% Lien to tail Canopi Bowl

Photo By: Baxter Jackson

Uros Kovacevic ollie, Town Square Al Ain

Photo By: Baxter Jackson

Photo By: Bradley Kirr between 2012-2013 (according to Rage founder Shahriar Khodjasteh) and private concrete bowls and prefab skateparks popping up at the American University of Sharjah and Arabian Ranches, it’s no wonder local skaters are clamouring with petitions for more public, skate-able terrain.

Given the clamour, the glamour and the dynamically cosmopolitan nature of the skate scene in the UAE (not to mention the support of celebrities and the royal family), the future is exactly how skateboarders see the urban jungle around them – open to interpretation.

From now until then, here’s a short list of where to get your skate-on.

Tashkeel Leave it to Dubai (actually Ohio son Bradly Kirr) to create a skatepark inspired by the curves and flourishes of the Arabic alphabet – in this case with the Arabic word Tashkeel which translates artistically as a structure around which one creates (with a skateboard, of course). Expect expats, Emiratis and the occasional princess to show up for a session on the art ramp or under the dabbled shade of the ghaf trees in the wooden bowl. Other such acts of artistic cross-pollination can be found inside where studios for printmaking, photography, textiles and fine arts surround a gallery that hold the expressions of a new generation. Feel free to skate, hang out with the artists and browse the exhibitions.

Skateboarding lessons available on request: 8:00am - 10:00pm, Saturday to Thursday. 04 336 3313; tashkeel@tashkeel.org Rage Bowl The only indoor skateboarding option currently available in the UAE, the Rage Bowl is the go-to spot for those rare rainy days of winter and dog days of summer when the temperature tops out at the boiling point.

Get kitted up with a complete skateboard for 375 AED, book a lesson and get carving in the bowl above the shop in the Dubai Mall.

Curious onlookers, guaranteed. 25 AED for a two-hour pass. Sunday to Wednesday. 10am

-10pm; Thursday – Saturday 10am – 12pm; Sunday to Wednesday 6-8pm, free! 04 434 1549; www.rage-shop.com Abu Dhabi Skatepark Even with the ledges, grind rails, quarter pipes, hips and fly-outs, the corniche skatepark in Abu Dhabi is laid out more for BMX and inline skating than skateboarding.

Nevertheless, local rippers like Mark Issa and his crew have, even with less than stellar facilities, managed to carve out a skate scene of local talent who’ve got the park and the street spots along the seaside promenade dialed-in. Sunrise till the lights go off, free entrance. 02 401 2066 Hayya Springs With the glittering Dubai skyline in the distance, the Springs is a fun little skatepark not far from the Burj Al Arab. It sports a 6ft tall, blue wooden half-pipe with hips on either side that connect you to the fun boxes, quarter pipes and grind rails strewn about to maximise flow. The strategically placed date palm trees are evocative of where you are but aside from that (and the multi-cultural bunch of grommets you’re likely to skate with), this park could just as easily be in California as the Arabian Peninsula. Open 6am-10pm daily. 15 AED entry fee. 04 362 7787 Photo By: Sebastian Hartung

LOCATIONS

OMAN escapes Words + Photos By: Darryl MacDonald

When my wife and I first moved to Oman, several years ago, I heard rumors about a desert race called the Wahiba Challenge. Having no previous experience in this part of the world, my imagination conjured up images of the Baja 1000, the Desert Mint and the Sahara Desert Race, and I was determined to take part. So, promptly after arriving in Oman, I searched out the appropriate off-road vehicle.

Not too old, so I wouldn’t have to fill the vehicle with spare parts and tools and not so new that I might spend several nights crying myself to sleep should something tragic happen to the vehicle (most insurance doesn’t cover dune bashing). I settled on an unmodified 2007 Jeep Wrangler and dutifully began appropriating and adding bits and pieces to get it through the desert with minimal damage and maximum efficiency. When the time came and the organisation for the event began, I was ready.

The Wahiba dunes are approximately 180km long and 90km wide with some of the dunes reaching over 100m in height. There are still a few Bedouin tribes roaming around the area, but the vast majority of the Wahiba is devoid of people. The event, which isn’t technically considered a race, takes place annually and is put on by local off-road club, meaning

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unfortunately that it is not open to the general public. The concept was simple; each team must have a minimum of four vehicles (for safety purposes) and each vehicle must contain two people. Teams have two days to cross the Wahiba and are given coordinates for the starting point, the camp site after the first day and the finish line.

My wife and I decided early that our team would consist solely of jeeps in order to fully enjoy the crossing without too much digging.

Some people complain the jeeps are too easy, but I think they just give you access to some of the more difficult terrain. Forty-eight hours before the event, the coordinates to the starting point are emailed to the team captains, and then the crowd begins to mobilise. Now if you

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

recall, this was my first outing into the Wahiba, or any desert for that matter. So the sight of over 120 souped-up, off-road vehicles in this barren landscape was astounding! It was like something straight out of a Mad Max movie. I was flabbergasted and excited!

The following morning everyone was up early to prepare for the day ahead. As I began to load up gear into my jeep, I noted in utter disappointment that I had acquired a flat tyre from a large thorn stuck into the sidewall of my brand new tyres – tyres that I had put on the jeep the week before. This was not a good start to the day. Thankfully, we had a wellorganised team. Within the blink of an eye, the jeep was up on a jack, the tyre was changed and we were off to the starting line to pick up our coordinates for the day. Everyone gathered at the start line, the organisers covered the rules and regulations which included; not following any other teams tracks, avoid going near any of the Bedouin camps or animals, never leave a single vehicle alone and not a single piece of rubbish was to be left behind; simple and to the point.

By 8:30am, the starting gun was sounded and we were off. At first it was a bit crowded, with over 120 vehicles looking for a suitable entry point into the sands, but within the first hour our team was all alone in the desert. In fact, I only actually recall seeing two other teams off in the distance that afternoon. It wasn’t until we neared the camp site coordinates for the day that we started to see anyone else. So, it wasn’t the Baha 1000 type event that I had expected, but it was still far different that anything I had done before and it was still awesome. That day, we picked our way over 40km of dunes. Some areas were easy, while in other places we attempted some of the more difficult terrain. Most of the problems we encountered were easily fixed with a snatch strap or a quick push; that is until 3km from

the finish line, when we noticed the fountain of brake fluid spewing out from under the lead jeep. After a brief rest and several of us poking around under the vehicle, we surmised that it was the best case scenario for a bad event.

The brake line had severed only an inch from the wheel, meaning that after about an hour of poking and prodding the underbelly of the jeep, a temporary fix was in place and we made it to the evening’s destination before the cut off time.

That night reparations were made from the events of the day, and preparations were made for the next day, the final day of the event. There were small celebrations scattered throughout the sand dunes over the course of the evening, and after an elaborate three course meal, we headed to bed so as to get an early start the following morning.

The distance for the final day was less than the first day, but as we neared the end, the sand became softer and the terrain became more difficult to maneuver through. With one

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

vehicle crippled by a damaged brake line and me having no spare tyre, we moved with a little more caution. None of the team was excited about the thought of having a vehicle towed out from the desert. Then, after four short hours of picking our way through the dunes, we crossed the finish line, with our vehicles intact. In the end, it wasn’t the epic thrilling cutthroat race my imagination had drummed up but something entirely different and, in many ways, just as exciting.

Dune bashing is definitely one of the highlights that Oman has to offer. With the right preparation and appropriate gear, this can be an exciting once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t forget to carry plenty of water, sun protection and never cross with less than three vehicles. So get out there, have fun and, as we like to say in Canada, “keep your stick on the ice.”

Darryl

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LOCATIONS

Get outdoors in the UAE Hiking – A series of articles to help you start or progress your hiking in the UAE

Part 2

Words + Photos By: Sean James

This is the second part in the hiking series that will help you get more from your outdoor life in the UAE. Last month, we talked about the clothing and equipment that you would need. A beautiful hike near Masafi was detailed to get you started. The hike was flat, on a good obvious track through wadis, plantations and mountains. The route was a simple out and back route that required no navigation. In addition, you could turn around whenever you liked.

This month we will look at planning and what you should think about before you start. Regular hikers will automatically grab their gear, rush out of the door and know exactly where they are going and how long it will take. However there are important considerations to ensure not only your safety but also to maximise the enjoyment.

If you are hiking with a group or have booked through a commercial operator then they will have planned the logistics and often send you a list of what to bring. We will give

Dramatic views just before the sun disappears are a bonus but make sure you bring your head torch and know the way back.

you a method of what to run through if you are planning your own outing.

It is always a good idea to have an

Camping is part of UAE outdoor life. Pitching your tent next to the vehicles and setting up the BBQ will get you ready for that long hike the next day.

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objective when you want to go out hiking.

The old saying “failing to plan is planning to fail” is very true. When considering which routes to hike, both long (all day) or short (1km) there is a useful acronym to remember that will assist you and keep your thoughts logical. It is called the 5Ds. Each D represents part of the planning process.

The Ds are: Distance, Duration, Direction, Destination, (D)Journey. These are the basics that you should think about and in future articles we will explain more techniques to help you navigate and operate independently whilst on the hike.

Distance Whilst at home, technology can help calculate the distance for your hikes in the UAE. There are many websites that allow downloads of existing .gps files. These are trails

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4,000m = (4 * 00:20:00) = 01:20:00 500m Ascent = (5 * 00:10:00) = 00:50:00 500m Descent = (5 * 00:05:00) = 00:25:00

Oman E 11

Total Hiking Time = 01:20:00 + 00:50:00

+ 00:25:00 = 00:02:35 Other factors that may influence the total duration are hiking at night for which you should use a reduced speed of half the normal pace. A heavy pack will also slow your speed by at least 1kph.

Ras Al Khaimah E 18

Dibba

E 11

Umm Al Quwain

E 311

Ajman Sharjah Dubai

Khor Fakkan

E 611

E 11

Al Dhaid

E 88

E 311

Masafi

E 88

E 89

E 11

Al Awir E 44 E 11

E 611

Lahbab Nazwa E 77

E 311

Fujairah

E 44

E 311

E 99

Kalba E 55

E 44

E 611 E 44

E 66

Download the GPX file for your GPS device here: www.outdooruae.com/downloads/JebelJaisHike2014.zip that people have already hiked and are prepared to share. Here the distance is already calculated when you load on to your device so you know exactly how far you are hiking.

To create my own hike, I find one of the best planning tools is Google Earth. There is a lack of accurate, contoured maps in the UAE so plotting a line of the intended hike on Google Earth gives the exact distance.

Of course the accuracy of the distance will depend on how precise you are with your plotting when you are using the software. So now you have the distance. What can you do with it?

Duration How long do you want to hike for? It can be difficult to calculate how long a hike will take as there are many factors that influence the speed that you walk. We all have friends who when it is their turn to lead, we all know to pack extra food and a head torch. It is certain their intended hike will be longer than anticipated and we will most certainly return to the vehicles in the dark.

However, once you have the distance you want to hike there is an easy way to calculate how long it will take. Of course there may be a variance for additional food and drink stops and photos but it should be very close.

This formula even takes into account the elevation gained and lost. It is best viewed as a table. To make it easier to understand only the 100m, 500m, 1km and 5km distances are shown. I often carry one of these tables with me when I’m out hiking to avoid lengthy cal-

Hatta

culations whilst balancing on a rocky ridge.

The table shows four different distances down the left and five different speeds of walking across the top.

Example One You have planned a route that is 1,000m (1km) long and you walk at 2kph. It will take you 00:30:00 (30 minutes).

Example Two You plan a route of 6,600m (6.6km) and you walk all of it at 4kph with no rests.

It will take you 00:01:30 + 00:07.30 + 01:15:00 = 01:24:00 (1 hour and 24 minutes) Notes on Timing For the table to work accurately you need to know how fast you are able to walk. This will depend on what type of ground you are hiking over. You should add extra time for ascending and descending. Google Earth will also give you total elevation gain and lose for the hike that you plot.

Time to add for Ascent or Descent 00:10:00per 100 m Ascent 00:05:00per 100 m Descent Example You intend to hike a route that is 4kms (4,000m) with 500m of ascent and 500m of descent. The trail is on fairly rough ground and you estimate the slowest person to walk at 3kph.

Calculation Table for Hiking - Time in h:mm:ss for given distance at given speed (KPH) Speed Dist. (m)

5

4

3

2

1

100

00:01:12

00:01:30

00:02:00

00:03:00

00:06:00

500

00:06:00

00:07:30

00:10:00

00:15:00

00:30:00

1000

00:12:00

00:15:00

00:20:00

00:30:00

01:00:00

5000

01:00:00

01:15:00

01:40:00

02:30:00

05:00:00

Direction The issue of navigating using bearings and a map holds slightly less importance in the UAE. Satellite signals are very strong and readily available so when you are hiking it is simply a matter of following the line on your GPS device or smartphone. However making sensible decisions or changes whilst on the ground is a key skill. What you thought was possible when looking at Google Earth at home may need a modification when out in the country. A wadi may be steeper or a nearby ridge may simply look more attractive and offer a better view. Keep important points or tick off features in mind along the hike and use your arsenal of navigational skills to become more proficient. Direction may also be a key factor when planning at home. What direction is the wind? Do you want to start walking into it or finish with it helping you? Are you walking into the sun in the morning or finishing with it behind you?

Destination Destination can be used to help improve your planning for both short and long hikes.

For a long hike, consider what is at the end of the hike. Most hikes will be circular so your vehicle will await you. In that case do you want to park somewhere that you can get food and refreshment? What time of the day are you finishing your hike and what will the destination look like then? Will it be different from when you started? Maybe you have parked near a mosque and would feel uncomfortable returning in hiking gear covered in dust at prayer time. Do you want to start by walking uphill or end at your destination with a fast, mood improving stroll downhill?

If you plan a hike that goes point-to-point and is not circular, you will have to arrange transport back such as a taxi or drop cars off beforehand. Destination is all about being aware about what is at the end of your hike.

What should you be looking out for?

(D)Journey Although slightly modified to fit the 5D acronym (D)Journey accounts for the type of experience or terrain you will be hiking over.

Does your intended hike fit with your mood?

Do you want steep sided valleys, lush flat plains, rolling hills with easy navigation? Or do you want to test yourself a bit and explore somewhere new with only faint trails?

Your hike will often be decided by where in the UAE you want to explore. Some people like to visit and explore completely new areas. Others feel more comfortable and prefer to repeat hikes that they have done before. Simply adding a bit more distance or a different approach to a summit can bring something extra to your day out. The UAE

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Evening and mornings provide the best air quality for photographs. Make an objective for your hike like a summit or wadi that you have always wanted to see.

is fortunate in that it is relatively compact in area but still has a variety of landscapes.

There is something for everyone and each area has unique characteristics. For example, the mountains near RAK are abundant with high plateaus while the knife edge ridges around Masafi offer a different experience and require different skills. Around Munai and Wadi Helo the wadis are gentle and more populated. In contrast the Hatta area offers deep, shady canyons and pools.

The 5Ds is a basic structure to help you start to plan your own hikes. The only way to learn is to plot a route at home and go out and follow it. Next month we will look at how you can navigate with a variety of

instruments; compass, map, coordinates, GPS device.

Time required for hike

A second step for February This month’s hike will put you right in the middle of the mountains near Ras al Khaimah. It offers dramatic vistas and takes advantage of the new road up to Jebel Jais.

You will be rewarded with a fantastic day out for the whole family and spectacular views of the mountains. Again the navigation is easy and you are never far from the car. The route wanders in a clockwise circular route around a high plateau. There are several fields and shady resting places so the hike can be split up into sections. This is a great place to practice using the compass to navigate.

It is possible to catch glimpses of the sea in N 25° 50.067, one direction and the E 056° 07.222 mountains of Musandam and Oman in the other.

No This hike can be as short or as long as you like.

120km 100min I have used the area Simple. Loop frequently to train clients in navigation. If you 3hrs – 4 hrs.

Distance

6.5km

Elevation gain on hike

400m

High point

805m

Grocery store on hike

No

Possible to encounter a vehicle on trail

No

Suitable for all the family

Yes

Camping near route

Yes. Recommended

Quick Checklist Route planning Start point Off-road driving required Distance and time from Mirdiff to start Navigation on hike

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want to make it a weekend there are also some excellent camping sites nearby. After your hike drive further up the road, park at the flag and look out over the city of Ras al Khaimah and the Arabian Gulf.

Directions to the start Enter the start point into your GPS device or follow the directions from Google below.

Follow the E311 north to RAK. When it finishes continue on the E11/Khuzam Road for 8.1km. Turn right onto E11. Continue 8.1km.

Turn right onto E11/Khuzam Rd. Continue for 2.7km. Turn right onto Khuzam Rd and go through one roundabout. Continue for 2.8km. At the next roundabout, take the second exit. Go through two more roundabouts for 5.3km. Turn right. Drive 1.5km.

Turn right and drive 5.1km.Turn right toward Jabel Al Jais Road (New) and drive 8km. At the roundabout turn left toward Jabel Al Jais Road (New) and drive 16.4km to a parking area on a wide bend. You will be able to see cultivated fields close by. Park safely off the road where you will not cause any problems.

The route is to the left (west) of the road.

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.

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TIPS & TRICKS

The Spangled Emperor Snapper is a good fighting fish - a great target for fly if you find them in shallow water.

How and what to catch in the Middle East #1

Spangled Emperor

Deep diving plugs are easy to see because of their lips either cast off the rocks or trolled behind a boat or kayak - make sure that they are swimming close to the bottom to target spangled emperors.

Photos By: Jono Shales, www.exmouthflyfishing.com.au

Words By: Kit Belen

The spangled emperor (Lethrinus nebulosus) belongs to the Lethrinidae family; they have robust teeth at the front and side of the jaws, and cheeks without scales. They are carnivorous, bottom-feeding fish. Their local name in the UAE is “Shaa’ri.”

The spangled emperor can live for more than 30 years. It can grow to 800mm and 8kg.

It has a golden-brown body with blue spots on the scales of the upper body and blue bars or lines radiating from the eyes over the cheeks and snout. It can change colour by switching on pigment cells in its skin. When an emperor is frightened, it often produces blotchy vertical brown bands across its body.

Where to find The spangled emperor is one of the most widely distributed fish in the Gulf and can be found in both inshore and offshore areas with rocky bottoms or other structure like ship wrecks. They will occasionally venture into very shallow areas like flats and estuaries.

How to catch Being one of the most distributed in the gulf, the spangled emperor is a very willing biter.

There are several methods you could use to catch the spangled emperor; the most basic way of fishing for them is bottom fishing for When you find them in shallow water - use flies that immitate natural forage.

Metal jigs are my favorite lures to use on spangled emperors - great to use if your friends are bottom fishing.

bait. Two of the best baits for these fish are shrimps and squid. Whether on a boat or casting from shore, the most commonly used rig (arrangement of hook line and sinker) is the two-hook paternoster, also called the high-low rig, (or a ganion if you are from the USA). The hooks are tied onto a separate snoot/leader and tied onto a heavier piece of monofilament; a weight is then attached on the bottom. This gets the bait to the bottom fast – right in front of the waiting maws of these vicious feeders.

If you want to target them using lures; deep diving plugs, soft plastic and metal jigs fished near the bottom account for most of the catch. Metal jigs are especially deadly for the bigger ones. The main drawback in targeting them with

lures is the fact that since they are a structureoriented fish, they tend to hold very close to bottom features that also act like lure snagging magnets.

In the rare occasion that you find them in shallow water, they are excellent targets on a fly. They will readily take crab, shrimp and minnow patterns (such as the clouser minnow). If they are holding more than half a metre, use an intermediate sinking line.

Spangled emperors are quite strong for their size giving you a few short determined bursts towards structure before giving you some line to gain. If they succeed in getting inside structure, it’s game over for you. It’s a good idea to lock the drag up a bit so you can gain line as soon as you feel the strike. A strike while using a metal jig is something to look forward to, the force they exert when they strike the jig will feel like they will yank the rod off your hands – and is very addicting.

Light jigging and fly-fishing are undoubtedly my favoured methods for these fish; however, they require more work for a fish you could easily catch with bottom fishing. If you are up for a challenge though, I recommend you try those two methods I mentioned and you will surely have a great time.

Availability and conservation The spangled emperor can be targeted for the whole year, although winter is the most favoured time to target them because the weather is more pleasant.

This fish is of commercial importance in the UAE and although the stock is not listed as in critical decline, it is however worth to note that bigger fish are now harder to come by.

Five years ago, it was very common to catch a three-kilo fish. These days, it’s hard to catch one that is over 1.5k. To know the stock status of fish species, please refer to the UAE consumer guide (www.choosewisely.ae/page/ how-can-I-help) by Choose Wisely.

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TIPS & TRICKS

Rough running makes for good times Why trail running will improve your road running Words By: Trace Rogers, Coach and Founder of SuperTRI Running, but it’s different. As road runners, we spend countless hours performing thousands of repetitions of the same movement patterns. This allows for an easy and early adaption to muscle stress and therefore minimises muscular strength gains. However, when you hit the trails, you are exposed to different surfaces and running angles. Your legs need to load and your muscles need to fire in a different way to keep you moving forward. This allows for new training gains and strength and fitness gains.

The core of the matter. Unlike tarmac, trail running happens on an unstable surface. This means that in order to remain stable you have to rely on the deep muscle groups close to the spine to keep you upright. Learning to run whilst engaging the core muscles will reduce running injuries.

Running with awareness. If you have been there, you have seen it. The runner who after numerous kilometres wears the “thousand mile stare.” There are different reasons for this

, n a D the Desert Gardener

loves

Gardenia

(belongs to the Rubiaceae family)

Gardenias to me would have to be one of the most perfectly created plants.

This handsome plant screams out “class and sophistication” with their strong, broad, glossy dark green leaves that feel like good quality leather and their flowers contrasting in colours of pure white or pale yellow. In fact, the Gardenia flower is often used as a corsage or boutonniere for formal functions.

But not only is the Gardenia good looking, it is blessed with an amazing strong,

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which include incorrect fuelling and/or exhaustion. Another cause however, could be that the endless repetition of running on long flat roads allows us to turn on the autopilot and plod on.

Running like this can interfere with performance as you are no longer paying attention to pace or form.

This is impossible to do when out on the trails. You are constantly checking for feedback from your surroundings as you choose the best way forward.

A change is as good as a holiday. Given that it is not always easy to get out of town to go for a run, I organised a training “event” for my triathlon group. Although the running was tougher than any workout that we usually do, we all loved it and came back feeling happy with our performance. I believe this was not only because of the beautiful scenery but also because it was a complete change to the normal grind. Whether you are looking to improve your running performance or just fall in love with running all over again. Take it to the trails. sweet fragrance that will enhance any garden.

Normally in the UAE, Gardenias are planted outside as a single specimen either directly into the ground or in a pot. They love full sun and can cope with partial shade. The soil must be well-drained and they do like to be moist but not overwatered. To help achieve this, it is good to plant them in potting soil and mulch. They enjoy the humidity of the UAE. Don’t plant them near concrete. As they grow in a round shape, they don’t like to be overcrowded, they need their personal space. Plant them near a window or door and you will benefit from their perfume coming into the house. Gardenias are also kept as indoor plants.

The Gardenia was named after a Scottish born doctor, botanist and zoologist, Dr Alexander Garden. It is also known by the name of Cape Jasmine and its different species are found in many different parts of the world. It was Sigmund Freud’s favourite flower too. Gardenias are evergreen shrubs, but their flowers are seasonal and now is the time they will be producing their abundance of fragrant blooms.

The Dubai Garden Centre has some fantastic displays of Gardenia in stock.

Hot tip: for an absolutely awesome run that can be turned into a great social event, visit Hatta Fort Hotel. They have a short trail within the hotel grounds which can be extended by taking your run out into the area surrounding the hotel. It’s hilly and it’s challenging. Afterwards you have the opportunity to shower and sit down to a well-deserved breakfast before heading back to town.

Useful knots #1 The Uni-Knot is used for fishing, to attach tackle to the line or mono leader. This knot can take a lot of stress and will not loosen; it is very reliable and simple. Of course, it can also be applied for other outdoor use.

TERMINAL TACKLE UNI-KNOT Used for attaching tackle to line or mono leader.

1. Run line through eye and double back forming circle.

2. Tie uni-knot by wrapping tag end around double line six turns and through loop.

Pull tag end to tighten.

3. Pull main line to tighten knot.

4. Keep pulling tight on main line and tackle until knot slides tight against eye.

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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

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Dubai

2nd Level, The Dubai Mall

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Bawabat Al Sharq Mall (Near Mafraq Hospital)

Doha

2nd floor, City Centre

Villaggio

Gate #4, Villaggio Mall, Qatar

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 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, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +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, Dubai, TheWalk JBR, +97144243191 Bateaux Dubai, Dubai Creek opposite the

British Embassy, +97143994994 Bristol Middle East, Dubai Marina, +97144309941, www.bristol-middleeast.com Captain Tony’s, 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 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 9423 9777, www.mourjanmarinas.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 Festival Marina, Dubai, Festival City, +97144498400, www.igy-festivalmarina.com Festival Marina, Dubai, Festival City, +97142085100, www.mourjanmarinas.com 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 Pearl–Qatar 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, The Dubai Mall, 2nd floor above ice rink, +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, +97150336046, www.sheesabeach.com Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza – 503, Dubai, +97142959428, www.arabiatours.com

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

OUTDOORUAE

59

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Climbing

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 Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900, www.adventure.ae Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi, +97126429995, www.alshaheenme.com Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.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 Micah’s 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 flr, C-13 bldg. Khalifa A City, Abu Dhabi, +97125566113, www.funridesports.com Peak Performance, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Dubai, +97143413056/+97143308023 Wolfi’s 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 Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900, +971506259165, www.adventure.ae, info@adventure.ae Clubs Abu Dhabi Tri Club, www.abudhabitriclub.com Cycle Safe Dubai, Dubai Autodrome www.cyclechallenge.ae Dubai Roadsters, www.dubairoadsters.com

60

OUTDOORUAE

Diving

Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, +97142894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Blue Waters Marine, +97142232189, Dubai, www.bluewatersmarine.com 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,

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

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 Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971503336046, www.sheesabeach.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, www.fishabudhabi.com Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11, The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +97143808616/+971553899995, info@ bluewatersmarine.com, www.bluewatersmarine.com Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai, Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +97143466558, www.barracudadubai.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, +97148829361, www.globalclimbing.com

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Leisure Marine Beach Hut, Dubai, The Walk JBR, +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 Operators Al Boom Diving, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah, +97143422993 Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900, 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, www.fishabudhabi.com Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Barracuda Diving Centre, Fujairah International Marine Club, +9719222558 Belevari Marine, Abu Dhabi,+97126594144 Captain Tony’s, 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 Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971503336046, www.sheesabeach.com Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai, +97142573084, www.summertimemarine.com 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

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

kawasaki@liberty.ae

General Sports Equipment Distributors

800 Sport, Al Quoz, Dubai +971 4 346 7751 www.800sport.ae Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Flip Flop Arabia, flipme@flipfloparabia.com, www.flipfloparabia.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, 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 Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Rentals 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, P O Box 334036 Dubai, UAE, +971 4 4558570, info@ regalproms.com

Motocross & ATV’s

Dealers Al Badayer Rental (Rental),

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Dubai-Hatta Road, +971507842020, www.albadayerrental.com Al Shaali Moto, Ras Al Khor, +97143200009, sales@alshaalimoto.com. www.alshaalimoto.com Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha 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 (atv’s), 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, www.libertykawasaki.com 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 Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza – 503, 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 Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, 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, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97142822144, www.libertykawasaki.com 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

Bling My Truck, +971503634839/+971505548255, info@blingmytruck.com, www.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 Tour Operators Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza – 503, 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

Off-Road

Dealers 4x4 Motors LLC, Shk. Zayed Rd, Dubai, +97143384866, www.4x4motors.com Bling My Truck, +971503634839/+971505548255, info@blingmytruck.com, www.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 Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha

OUTDOORUAE

61

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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

Stand up Paddling, Kite & Surfing, Wakeboarding Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai, +97142894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh

Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Picnico 04 3941653 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 Ikönic Brands, Suite 509 Düsseldorf 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,

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.

FEBRUARY 2014 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

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 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 Children’s 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, +971 4 355060, www.orthosp.com

ALL ROUND KAYAK Storage hatch Water bottle holder

Optional Deluxe seat

Paddle park

Elastic deck lines

Drain bung

Moulded in bow handle

Optional Fishing rod holders

SPECIFICATIONS LENGTH: 290cm / 9' 6" WEIGHT: 21kgs / 46lbs

WIDTH: 74.5cm / 29Âź" CAPACITY: 150kgs / 330lbs

Innovative moulded in side handles

Wheel in kheel

SIT ON TOP SEA KAYAKS Designed in New Zealand and proudly made in Thailand with 30 years of production experience. Suitable for novices through to experienced paddlers; highly versatile and innovative designs. Ideal for learning to kayak, surfing, fitness, short tours, fishing or just fun on the water.

TANDEM KAYAK Storage hatch Water bottle holder

Optional Deluxe seat

Paddle park

Elastic deck lines Moulded in bow handle

Drain bung Wet storage Paddle park

Optional Fishing rod holders Wheel in kheel

SPECIFICATIONS LENGTH: 380cm / 12' 6" WEIGHT: 32kgs / 70.5lbs

Distributor

Innovative moulded in side handles

WIDTH: 83cm / 32.5" CAPACITY: 250kgs / 550lbs

Available at: UAE: Adventure HQ in Times Square Center in Dubai, Go Sport stores in The Dubai Mall and in Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in Abu Dhabi, Al Yousuf Motors (Yamaha) showrooms in Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, Qatar: Go Sport in Villaggio Mall in Doha and in City Center Doha Mall

WWW.FEELFREEKAYAK.COM