a book review by Nico de Corato
WADI SHOWKA
Intro to UAE trail running
FOOTPRINTS
in the Himalayas - a journey with G4G
Oman Road trip to Wadi Bani Awf
Adventure Academy First Aid in the Wilderness
Interviews with:
Off-Roaders, Trail Runners and Explores Plenty of
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WHAT MAKES BALI A TOURIST DELIGHT?
MARATHON DES SABLES - GOING BEYOND ULTRA
Vol. 8, No. 5 May-August 2018
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OutdoorUAE Team
Daniel Birkhofer Founder and Managing Director daniel@outdooruae.com
This is now our 93 issues which is going to print since our inception in 2010. From 2011 until last year we have not missed a single month, continuously growing our reach and the community. We not only have thousands of readers, but also an army of hundreds of adventure seekers from all genders, nationalities and skill levels eager to share their stories with you. It’s the passion of those people and of course our own passion and love which was driving the magazine so far. I am myself the biggest fan of the magazine and I enjoy reading every single story. But the ugly truth is, that OutdoorUAE is still a business and we need to pay the bills to keep the magazine running. Since 2017 it got tougher by the day. The print industry is on decline worldwide which is a fact we cannot deny, this combined with a challenging economic situation for most companies in the UAE, also put a toll on us, since without a marketing budget, there are no ads and without ads we are losing our funding. Especially in the summer, marketing budgets are not available therefore we decided not to print the magazine throughout the summer this year and this issue will cover the period from May until August. No worries, this is not a goodbye message, we are still here but will just not print the magazine for a few months. We will use this time to prepare for the future and to go with the trends and new market demands. The printed magazine is our identity and will also not vanish, but we might adjust the frequency as well as our distribution channels. But there is also good news, we have some amazing plans in our drawer which have been waiting for months to be realized. The next few months will give us time to work on our new strategy and to get things up and running for next season. With that, we are wishing you all a blessed holy month of Ramadan and an amazing summer wherever you will spend it. We will be back with the next issue and some big announcements in August.
Dan Wright Staff Writer and Outdoor Guide
Ireneo ‘Jung’ Francisco Photographer and Designer jung@outdooruae.com
Katherine Cañedo Patangui Administration kathy@outdooruae.com
Ian Sebeldia Circulation
EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS
Marina Bruce The Desert Diva and Off-road Expert
Daniel Editor For editorial content and press releases Tel. 04 446 8473 Mobile: 055 9398915 editor@outdooruae.com
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© 2018 Outdoor UAE FZE Vol. 8, No. 5, May-August 2018
Published by Outdoor UAE FZE P.O. Box 215062 Dubai, U.A.E. Tel. 04 446 8473 contact@outdooruae.com www.outdooruae.com Cover photo by: Nico de Corato
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The information contained is for general use only. We have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this magazine has been obtained from reliable sources. The publisher is not responsible for any errors. All information in this magazine is provided without a full guarantee of completeness, accuracy and chronology. In no event will the publisher and/or any of our affiliates be held responsible for decisions made or action taken in reliance on the information in this magazine. All contents are copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form without prior written permission.
David O’Hara Ultra Runner and Extreme Endurance Junkie
Nicky Holland Personal Trainer
Pedro Gomes Professional Triathlete
Denise Ostermann Outdoor Travel Contributor
WHEN YOU’RE DONE READING, PLEASE RECYCLE!
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CONTENTS
30 FIRST AID IN THE WILDERNESS, IT’S AS EASY AS A,B,C,D,E
14 THE UNDERWATER WORLD OF FUJAIRAH
42 UAE OFFROADERS...WELCOME TO THE FAMILY
EVERY ISSUE
18 INTRO TO UAE TRAIL RUNNING: WADI SHOWKA 20 FOOTPRINTS IN THE HIMALAYAS 22 6X6 - SIX CONTINENTS, SIX IRONMEN
06 EVENTS CALENDAR 08 BEST SHOTS 47 PRODUCTS 63 DIRECTORY
EVENT & ACTIVITY REPORTS 09 SEAYOU WINDSURF SERIES 10 CAROLYN’S FIRST MARATHON AT 60 AND OLGA’S PB 12 LET’S ENJOY A MARTINI (ON THE) ROCK 14 THE UNDERWATER WORLD OF FUJAIRAH 16 DALAT ULTRA TRAIL 4
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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE 25 TRAINING TO BE MOUNTAIN FIT 28 SUMMER RUNNING IN THE UAE 30 FIRST AID IN THE WILDERNESS, IT’S AS EASY AS A.B.C.D.E 32 MUSANDAM UNTOUCHED 34 OMAN ROAD TRIP TO WADI BANI AWF AKA SNAKE CANYON 36 WHAT MAKES BALI A TOURISTS’ DELIGHT?
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20 FOOTPRINTS IN THE HIMALAYAS
51 THE HUMAN ENGINE
38 ULTRA? GOING BEYOND? BEYOND DUE LIMITS? 40 ON THE OMAN TRAIL (PART 3) RUB AL KHALI CROSSING
LIFESTYLE 42 UAE OFFROADERS WELCOME TO THE FAMILY 44 OFFROADER’S CORNER: FADI ALSHAMI 45 OFFROADER’S CORNER: GREG BERNIERE 46 HABITUALLY HEALTH: WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH DATES? 51 THE HUMAN ENGINE 52 BEACH BOOTH CAMP – NOT JUST FOR SURF PRO’S
56 HOW TO TRAIL FOR THE SPORT OF TRIATHLON...
OUR EXPERTS 53 SUMMER CAMPING IN THE UAE AND OMAN - MARINA 54 A VERSITILE JIG - KIT
TIPS & TRICKS 56 HOW TO TRAIN FOR THE SPORT OF TRIATHLON DURING THE SUMMER IN THE UAE 58 FAIL TO PREPARE, PREPARE TO FAIL
PEOPLE 59 BEN ROBBINS 60 ARWIN GONZALES STA. CLARA
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EVENTS CALENDAR
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STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST EVENTS
Ironstar Indoor Triathlon - Race 1 to Race 5
WOW news for endurance sports lovers – IRONSTAR INDOOR TRIATHLON series is back to Dubai! IRONSTAR is happy to be back to the town after hosting an inaugural season last year resulted in participants average vote 9.4 out 10 possible points (all #ironstarteam sincerely appreciates your high appraisal!) When: 12th May, 26th June, 21st July, 11th Aug and 15th Sept. Where: Dubai Contact: www.premieronline.com
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Photo by: Pedro Gomes
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Dubai Sports World 2018
Run The Track 10k, 5k & 3k RAMADAN NIGHT May 2018
When: 17th May – 8th September Where: Dubai Contact: www.visitdubai.com
When: 18th May Where: Dubai Contact: www.premieronline.com
Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre in association with Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Sports World is the place to be for the UAE’s sports fans during the long summer months. Over three months, you can play all of your favourite sports in the emirate’s largest indoor sports venue.
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Run The Track is a number of runs being held at Dubai Autodrome. The events are not a series, so you can enter for one or more as you choose and are suitable for all members of the running community, from first time novice runners, to some of the best social runners in the UAE.
1st Annual USA 2 UAE 5K Red, White and Blue Run
USA2UAE presents to you the first annual Red, White, and Booze 5k fun run and Yacht party. This is a fun run with an American twist to celebrate America’s Independence Day, “The 4th of July”. The 5K run will take place right before the sun sets around the beautiful Dubai Marina. Runners are encouraged to dress-up in their “United States of America attire” and join in on the competition to win “The Red, White, Booze King & Queen” costume competitions. When: 7th June Where: Dubai Contact: www.premieronline.com
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NAS Night Challenge
NAS Night Challenge, which is set to take place on 23, 24, and 31 May, is part of this year’s NAS Sports Tournament. The event is a community-based obstacle course, and you can take part either on your own or as part of a team. The course will be spread out across a plot of land next to the NAS Sports Complex, and is expected to attract over 2000 athletes and visitors over the three days. There will be an ‘individuals’ night on 23 May, and a team night on 24 May, while the 31 May will be exclusively for ladies. When: 22th May – 31st September Where: Dubai Contact: www.visitdubai.com
JUNE
16 Dubai Desert Road Run 10k & 3k June 2018
First held in February 2012, the Dubai Desert Road Run is held several times a year, appealing to all elements of the running community from first time social runners, to some of the best UAE based athletes. Organised as a community event in which runners of all abilities are encouraged to participate, the Dubai Desert Road Run features two distances; 10km and 3km. Both distances are run on private roads over a safe, traffic free course. When: 16th June Where: Dubai Contact: www.premieronline.com
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Summer Solstice Crazy Bonkers - Abu Dhabi Ride and Dubai Ride
Now in its 5th year The Last Exit Summer Solstice Crazy Bonkers Rides challenge you to Cycle 180 Kilometers (Ironman Ride) or 161 Kilometers (Century Ride) or 100 kilometers (Metric Century Ride) or 38km or 52km during the night in summer. The event take place 1 days after the ‘actual’ date of the Summer Solstice. This is NOT A RACE but an opportunity to clock up kilometres in the middle of summer, on what is close to the longest day/shortest night of the year. When: 21st June Abu Dhabi and 22nd June Dubai Where: Abu Dhabi and Dubai Contact: www.premieronline.com
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BEST SHOTS Here are the best shots sent in by you for our monthly 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 three winners, who will each receive five free copies of the magazine and the Advance Off-road Guidebook: Arthur Christopher Rosales, Daniel Parilla and Andrea Uschold. Well done!
To submit your entries, simply email us at competition@outdooruae.com with the subject “Best Shots.”
Arthur Christopher Rosales
Photo taken at Al Quaa - Wathba Camping Site
Daniel Parilla “Its a great feeling to start a new day with a beautiful sunrise
and enjoy the priceless beauty of nature!” @Umm Al Quwain 8
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Andrea Uschold
”Only in complete silence, will you hear the desert” - Anonymous Bedouin @ Al Faq’a Desert
EVENT REPORT
Palm Jumeirah: On April 6th 2018 SeaYou Dubai hosted the R300 Windsurf race which is part of the SeaYou Watersport Series that is held annually during the country’s windiest time. The free event invites all experienced windsurfers in the region to participate as long as they have a board that falls under the R300 board category otherwise participants had the option to charter equipment. A total of 12 participants including a windsurfer that had flown in from Saudi Arabia met at the Sofitel Hotel Palm Jumeirah where they had to go through a series of 4 races which was put together by Adrien Bre, head of windsurfing at SeaYou water sports. Around 15 knots was recorded on the day, making it perfect conditions for the participants. Last year’s runner up Ahmed Ragaie from Egypt claimed first place after coming first in all 4 races.
Close behind him in second place was Sri Lankan Isuru Lakshan who just missed out on a top 3 finish last year. Isuru took 2nd place in all of the 4 races putting pressure on Ahmed Ragaie throughout the race. Despite ripping his sail during the second race, Abu Dhabi based sailing coach Hedi Znaidi from Tunisia claimed enough points to take home third place. 14 year old Tyler Thompson from Australia broke the race record for becoming the youngest windsurfer to ever participate in the watersports series R300 race. Sponsored prizes from Severne Sails and Starboard windsurfing went to all 3 winners. SeaYou Dubai will be back next season with 2 new additional windsurf races in hope to crown the region’s best R300 windsurfer. ■
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EVENT REPORT
Carolyn’s First Marathon at 60 and Olga’s PB Words + Photos by: David O’Hara
When Carolyn was approaching her 50th birthday, she wanted to run her first marathon to commemorate the occasion. Alas, injuries during preparation limited her training and she opted for a half marathon instead. Over the next ten years, the nagging feeling lingered and with her 60th birthday on the horizon, Carolyn knew this was her best opportunity to accomplish a bucket list goal: run the Paris Marathon. Carolyn’s Running CV
Carolyn has always been a recreational jogger, running 3km - 5km leisurely once or twice a week throughout her life. However, running a marathon is at a completely different level. Carolyn started a fairly standard training program six months before the marathon, with a plan to gradually build distance and confidence. Carolyn did not do typical Carolyn celebrating at 42km
Carolyn with Mikhail and Olga
Why Paris Marathon?
Carolyn chose the Paris Marathon as her first marathon for two reasons. First, the Paris Marathon is in Paris, and we love Paris. Second, Olga and I run Paris Marathon every year. We agreed that I would run with Carolyn, and that Olga would run as her fitness allows. I would monitor Carolyn’s nutrition and hydration during the marathon, and carry a pack for her. Since Carolyn’s best 5km time was over forty minutes, I calculated her anticipated pace and explained the milestones along the course: Bastille, Chateau de Vincennes, Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower and the Finish. Ready, set, go!
speed work like intervals for two reasons: to avoid unnecessary injuries, and to accept that she is never going Olga and Carolyn exhilarated at the finish to run fast because of genetics. (Full disclosure: Carolyn is my sister and apparently, we share a hereditary predisposition for an utter lack of speed.)
Breaking an Arm and Dealing with It
During her marathon training, Carolyn began her long weekend runs on trails, to break up the monotony of road running. Unfortunately, just months before the marathon, Carolyn tripped, fell, and broke her arm. Breaking an arm is a major setback for any runner, but for a 60-year-old novice runner, it changes things. Carolyn adapted her training to activities that built up her aerobic capacity while maintaining her arm in a tight sling.
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At 37km
The Hard Part: Running
Now for what Carolyn has been planning for months: running her first marathon. The Start of the Paris Marathon takes place on the Champs-Élysées, and it’s a glorious sunny morning. Perfect. Olga takes off, and Carolyn and I start our marathon adventure. The first obstacle was cobblestones which were slippery - we both feared Carolyn would slip and break her arm again - so our slow pace was a good idea and in accordance with our strategy.
Allez, allez! Courage, Carolyn!
We ran through the crowded streets of Paris with 40,000 other runners, and over the first 25km, everybody was passing us. Our focus was not on other runners, but the exciting atmosphere of Paris. Live bands played eclectic music every kilometre. Spectators lined the course and provided so much energy with the random high five’s and the sweet words of motivation: “Allez, allez! Courage, Carolyn!” – thanks to having runners’ names printed on all bibs.
High five at 25km
Finishing with Dignity
A mere 42.2km after we started on the Champs Élysées, we ran up Avenue Foch toward the Arc de Triomphe and the Finish. It wasn’t easy. There were many obstacles over the past few months, including a broken arm and countless blisters. We accomplished our goals on a glorious day in Paris: Olga ran her Personal Best (“PB”) in 3:57, and I took care of my sister Carolyn. Carolyn finished her first marathon at 60 years old, and both Olga and Carolyn finished with dignity. My other sister, Patty, turns 60 in two years. She’s next! ■
Starting on the Champs Elysee
Carolyn finishing her first marathon at 60 years old
Tortoises and Hares
Carolyn ran her very moderate but steady pace without stopping. We were focused on Relentless Forward Motion and nutrition, but then we noticed something – we were running at our steady pace, but we began passing some people who had passed us earlier. This was clearly an advantage of our Tortoise vs Hare strategy.
Selfie at 30km
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ACTIVITY REPORT
LET’S ENJOY
A MARTINI (ON THE) ROCK For Christmas we planned a beautiful dive with lovely rich orange soft coral everywhere and some deep purple and bright yellow soft coral as well Words + Photos by: Nico de Corato Equipment: Nikon D3200, Lens 18 – 55 mm, UW housing & lights by NiMAR
I don’t know how many times I’ve visited those places, but Ihave to confess. Every time I need to take a break during the week, I get my car, I drive to Khorfakkan, I jump on a boat with my scuba gear and I enjoy scuba diving. I never get tired of diving in these two dive sites, and every time I have a chance, I take some amazing photos and videos.
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Despite its long coastline, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has only recently started to attract dive travelers. Encompassing the tip of the Arabian Peninsula, which separates the Persian Gulf from the Gulf of Oman, the UAE – especially Dubai – has long been known as a retail-therapy and duty-free destination, rather than a sporting attraction. The sea around Dubai has an average depth of 10-20 metres off the coast, while along the coast, the depth varies between 3 and 10 metres, with a mostly sandy bottom; not the best conditions for a beautiful dive. But within two hours of driving you can reach several regions to dive along the east coast as well as the Gulf of Oman. Popular
areas include Fujairah, Khorfakkan and Musandam along the Gulf of Oman and Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi along the Persian or Arabian Gulf. On the east coast of the country, the shorelines and reefs are virtually untouched – revealing a land that would look unchanged and familiar to ancient seafarers. Martini Rock and Shark Island, often dived as a pair, lie 25 minutes by boat south of Al Aqah, In Khor Fakkan. They are my monthly gift....
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Martini Rock
Location: 25°20’05″N; 56°22’53″E (Al Fujayrah, Indian Ocean side of the United Arab Emirates) Description: Large rock formation close to shore Depth: 3 – 22 metres (10 – 72 feet) Visibility: 5 – 15 metres (15 – 50 feet) A pleasing and colourful site that makes you feel like you’re diving in an aquarium. Martini Rock is a small submerged coral
outcrop, the top of which is visible from the surface at 3 metres. The variety of fish life is excellent and the top 5 metres is like an aquarium: schools of snapper, fusiliers, anthias, triggerfish and large-mouth mackerel are present most of the year. Lovely rich orange soft coral everywhere and some deep purple and bright yellow soft coral as well. Every other metre you see something interesting, starting with cuttlefish on the sand, nudibranchs, lionfish, scorpionfish, puffer and burrfish, snappers, broomtail wrasse, and geometric and yellow-margined morays. You should be able to dive all round the rock (which is supposed to be like a martini glass on its side) in one dive, starting off at about 12 metres, moving to 20 and then going back to shallower again.
Shark Island
(also known as Khor Fakkan Island) Location: 25°21’12″N; 56°22’36.2″E Description: Large rock formation Depth: 16 metres (55 feet) Visibility: 5 – 15 metres (15 – 50 feet) Shark Island is one of the deeper sites on the East Coast, bottoming out at around 17 metres. Marine life here includes much
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of the same species as Martini Rock, due to their close proximity to eachother. The west side of the island provides an excellent shallow area for snorkelling. Visibility is regularly very good and the coral life forms are very colourful. Cow-tail rays have also been seen inhabiting both the deeper and shallower waters around the island. During the second dive of the day, we got to meet up a huge sea turtle, very close to us. As the name suggests, this place is favourable for spotting certain types of shark, especially the black tip. There are also numerous anemones, natural home of clownfish (Nemo.. just to be clear). ■
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ACTIVITY REPORT
THE UNDERWATER WORLD OF FUJAIRAH Both, if you are a long time East-Coast diver, or it’s your first time here, you can’t miss reading this book to discover useful information about marine life in Fujairah Words + Photos by: Nico de Corato
After one of my usual dives in Khorfakkan, on my way back to Dubai I stopped for a coffee, and to say hello to my friend Major Ahmed Ebrahiem, Managing Director of Fujairah International Marine Club. It was a few days before ramadan, so I had a gift for him: a copy of the book I just published (Dialetto Emiratino, an ItalianEmirati phrasebook). He also had a gift for me: two books. One was Focus on Fujairah: Through Minie’sLense, 1964-2000 is a photo book documenting the creation of the Fujairah Maternity Hospital, built by Wilhelmina van de Weg, its daily life and her travels on the east coast. The other one: The Underwater World of Fujairah, whose publication has been possible thanks to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah, who intends to share information about the richness of Fujairah underwater. Fujairah is characterised by a mountain landscape; agriculture and fishery have traditionally been the main activities for a very long time, although nowadays the economy is based on different fundamentals. During the past few decades, thanks to the improvement of the road network and communications of this Emirate, the underwater world has been a tourist attraction especially for divers who want to see the beauties of this natural environment. Those who love tropical seas and watching all sorts of incredible marine creatures such as strange-looking fish, brightlycoloured (and sometimes even poisonous)
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ones, corals and starfish, should not miss this read. This book aims at introducing you to the attractions of the underwater world of this Emirate. It has an elegant black paperback cover with a dust-jacket, and it contains magnificent illustrations of the most important fishes and all kind of underwater life. The pictures are of an excellent quality, considering that they have been taken in an underwater environment and therefore in extreme conditions, despite that they are very sharp and bright in colour. The reader will get acquainted to the most important species of fish within the
Emirate, including other forms of life such as sea stars and corals. The photos are so realistic that the reader will get the impression that they areactually diving into the sea and admiring gorgeous creatures living underwater. In the book’s introduction, His Highness expresses his concerns about the fragility of this ecosystem that can be easily damaged by human beings and about the future of this environment. He strongly urges the protection of this precious environment by keeping it as clean and healthy as possible for the next generations to enjoy. The book is divided into six parts: sharks and rays, fish, moray eels, corals and starfish, nudibranchs, critters of the sea. Photography has been realized by the self-taught underwater photographer and SSI Instructor Werner Thiele who has won numerous prestigious international awards including the World Championship in Underwater Photography – (category wide-angle with model) in 2005, before he became an esteemed guest juror. His very first love was a Nikonos III with a 35mm lens – today he prefers his NIKON D4. In the first part, you can also find a personal comment of HH Sheikh Mohammed Al Sharqi, who considers sharks and rays as gracious emperors of the oceans and not enemies of man. “It is a good sign that such creatures still survive in Fujairah, since there is no fish industry that catches sharks. Sharks are not to be considered enemies of the humans but it’s true opposite”.
The sharp and bright illustrations and the notes and captions in each page of this book, are a precious guide for the classification and recognition of underwater creatures. Special attention has been given to small species of fish living only in the Arabian waters and in particular in Fujairah, such as the reticulated leather jacket that can be seen in different diving spots, especially those with sandy beds and also on top of wrecks. For other small creatures such as scorpion fish, it is quite difficult to see them under water because of their ability to camouflage. They can live in depths ranging from 1 to 40 metres. The tassled scorpion fish is carnivorous and usually sits on stone waiting for smaller fish. Other small fish, such as goatfish, that contribute to maintaining the balance of the ecosystem and live mainly in muddy or sandy habitats, are found mainly close to coral reefs.
Goatfish are characterized by a pair of chin barbels, which contain chemosensory organs and are used to probe the sand or holes in the reef for food. They feed on invertebrates living in the lowest part of the water (benthic zone), by stirring the sand with their barbels. There are other smaller spices of fish such as pipefish which are quite similar to seahorses. These nice and funny creatures have been reported as friendly and sociable to humans which makes it easy to take photos of them when they swim nearby. The most beautiful fish contemplated in this book are the Arabian angelfish which live exclusively in the Arabian waters and can be seen easily in Fujairah, and the emperor angelfish which is distinguished for its dynamic and bright colours. The fourth part of the book focuses on the importance of coral reefs and the risk they are exposed to due to pollution, increase of water temperatures and incorrect human activities, with very important and useful information for all people involved in the Reef Check activities. In the remaining parts of this nice book the reader can get acquainted with other species of water creatures such as crab, lobster, prawns, shrimps, sea shells, cuttlefish, jelly fish and be amazed by the nice pictures attached. I went through the whole book in a single night; watching its magnificent collection of photos and rich information about sea life in Fujairah, the beauty and incredible biodiversity of sea life there. So the day after I could not skip returning to Fujairah for another dive and to finally give a name to
all the creatures I see underwater whenever I’m there. This book is a must read for all divers and sea-lovers. ■
Keep on diving!
Nico
With Major Ahmed at the FIMC
Book’s factsheet
The Underwater World of Fujairah book
Initiator
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Mohammed, bin Hamadbin Mohammed El Sharqi
Published
2013, Fujairah, UAE
Printing
agensketterl Druckerei Gmbh
Coordination
Erich Muller alias Sultan Mohammed
Photography
Werner Thiele
Graphic Design
Bernhard Sassmann
Text
Sabine Hausner
Lector
Ruth Kalthaus
Scientific consulting
Helmuth Gothel
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EVENT REPORT
DALAT ULTRA TRAIL
70km in the City of Eternal Spring Words by: Aida Othman Photos by: Dalat Ultra Trail and NGUYỄN HOÀNG TUẤN (ERIK)
’Dalat what?, I quickly keyed in Dalat word in the search engine since I never been to Vietnam, let alone heard about this place. Turned out to be a contrast scenery, not distinctly Asia. Dalat is a hilly resort and capital of Lam Dong province situated in Central Vietnam at 1,500m above sea level. It’s a modern city that is laid back and lack of hustle bustle. Le Petite Paris as they called this town, it’s used to be the French retreat town and the capital of French Federation of Indochina during the World War II.Thanks for its 20 degrees Celcius, charming Swiss and French villas, blossoming flowers and pine trees scent in the air - it’s not difficult to fall in love with this city.
lighter for the race. The race kit comprised of Quecha bag pack, headlamp and race belt. My planning for the race was made easy because the bip number not only contain elevation graph but also distance to run between each checkpoint within time limit. I skipped the carbo load dinner (coupon included in the race kit) and opted for a quiet dinner in the hotel instead, followed by an early night.
My Race Experience 17th March
Dalat Ultra Trail Expo
Walking down hill through Dalat Palace garden hotel, I picked up the race kit in a very organised order at Lam Vien Square by Xuan Huong lake. A nice vibe with live music band. It’s huge outdoor space giving chance for more than 2000 runners to check out the stores, mingle and try new gears. I chatted with friendly locals as well as expats there. Tried out the Recovery Sports System at The Endurance Academy booth which made my legs felt
enjoyable.
Roughly an hour bus from Lam Vien Square at 2:30am brought runners to the start of finishing line at Hoang Hac Restaurant - one of the most popular restaurant in Dalat I was told. While waiting for the race to start at 4 am, runners were entertained by MCs, Thanh Vu (well-known as The Girl Who Runs Over The World) and Russel Johnson (co-founder of Champion Dash Races, first obstacle race in Vietnam). Kim Mathews, the event’s ambassador (Australian runner residing in Vietnam) gave her race tips before the start. The beautiful course took me to enjoy the Valley of Love, Lang Biang Mountain, and Bidoup Nui Ba National Park. The breathtaking natural landscapes surrounded by hills, pine forests, lakes and waterfalls made the run more
Water and 100 plus available at all 10 checkpoints. Bananas also provided, except at Checkpoint 8. During the hot afternoon, ice cubes supplied at the 4 checkpoints really help to cool down. The rich soil was evidenced when I ran along the coffee plantations, vegetable farms and greenhouses where lilies and roses were grown.
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The best part was at Checkpoint 4 when group of 21km runners with their fresh legs started their race sprinting and joined us, the much tired 70km runners. We hiked up the 1550m steep hill together. Towards second half of the race, the 40km runners can be seen on the course as well, some simply relaxing by the river - not in hurry mood. Pleasant weather bathed runners the entire day and it ended with pouring rain, slight thunder and lightning when I reached the finishing line at Golden Valley. Had I not race 100km only a week earlier, the result at Dalat Ultra Trail could have been better. My recovery and pleasurable run ended with 50th place, 5th lady and 1st in my age group. While others enjoyed the usual Vietnamese noodle soup, I was very happy with rice and fish dish before heading back to the hotel by the free hourly shuttle bus to Dalat city. Overall, this is a fast course (highest point was 1,745m and cumulative total elevation of 2,080). The steepest hill at 30+ gradient with majority of runnable section but no technical trail. I would recommend this race to any road runners who wants to give trail running a try or for trail runners who
like speed without obstacle. No compulsory gears means long distance runners can run without the hassle of carrying much weight.
Getting There
Fly with Emirates to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh city. Then, take domestic flight to Dalat. From Dalat Airport (Lien Khuong International Airport), you may board a taxi or shuttle bus about 30 to 40 minutes ride to the city via a good highway.
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Accommodation
There are plenty of nice place to stay. I stay at Du Parc Hotel, a short walking distance to Lam Vien Square.
Organisation
This event was part of Asia Trail Master race series and a second time event held by 123Go and Vietnam MTB Series. It proved to be a successful one - thanks to around 250 volunteers. Would be fantastic if: 1. 70km runners didn’t have to arrive too early and waited too long in cold morning before the race start, 2. more communication translated in English in the Social Media platform 3. vegetarian meal option provided at finishing line, and 4. final race result was done instantly or runners can be tracked live.
Sign Up
Visit http://dalatultratrail.vn/en/ for more details. You can sign up for 70km, 42km, 21km, or 10km. ■
Aida Othman (@_aidaothman_) is a lifestyle writer and content creator behind the website, Slice Of Torch Ginger. An avid ultra-runner, her longest run was the 7 Emirates Run in the UAE, covering 575km in 12 days to raise funds for the medical bills of a toddler born with deformed legs and the only woman to achieve this distance two years in a row.
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EVENT REPORT
Intro to UAE TRAIL RUNNING:
Words + Photos by: David O’Hara
Urban Ultra hosts trail running events at Wadi Showka in Ras Al Khaimah twice a year, attracting hundreds of local trail runners from novices to elites. The Wadi Racer event consists of three distances: 10km, 20km, and 30km, covering rolling hills with some spectacular views of mountains and my favorite camels. Wadi Showka is the side of UAE which most people don’t understand exists: rural, rocky mountains – yet is only one hour drive from Dubai and Sharjah and a two hour drive from Abu Dhabi. If you are not familiar with Wadi Showka, then the best way to give it a try is to run in the next Urban Ultra event there. Urban Ultra’s Wadi Racer
The Wadi Racer starts at before dawn, so most runners camp out under the stars the night before. There is a special feeling of driving to the mountains and sleeping outside under the stars on a yoga mat before waking up and going for a nice run. A nice new feature that recently appeared is
Sam and his cool pink calf compressions
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Sergei cruising up the trail
the Adventure Camp (GPS: N25° 6’3.18” E56° 3’44.24”), which is the location of the Start and Finish. In April, around 250 runners participated in Wadi Racer, with about equal numbers across the three distances. The course this time was changed slightly to make it more challenging, because Urban Ultra is, well, Urban Ultra – and this isn’t supposed to be easy! The route is up an out and back double track rocky trail with the last 5km diverted to single track up and over the mountains – if you are a runner, you understand what that means, but if not, you should join the next event and find out for yourself!
Jeremy also passed me at Hatta Hills
Trail Running Community in UAE
At the Start of the Wadi Racer, you have a chance to catch up with running buddies that you meet at other events. Urban Ultra has created a great sense of community among trail runners, with an understanding of acceptance for any runners, regardless of running talent or background. These events encourage people to get out and experience the great outdoors in the UAE, even if you are new to trail running. If you are new to trail running, then sign up for the next event and see for yourself what you are missing and give it a try. In the meantime, you can join Lee Harris’ Desert Trail Runners group and get some training as well as meeting like-minded trail runners.
Scott is back in the game
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Louis crushing the singletrack
Trail Running Can Be Fun, but Not Easy
If you are new to trail running, sign up for a shorter distance so you can understand what you are getting yourself into. If you enjoy running half marathons on roads, then the 10km event may be suitable. Newcomers tend to judge the trail run by distance not Time on Feet, which frequently results in underestimating the endeavor. There are many differences between trail running and road running: road running is often an urban sport with water and facilities readily available, whereas trail running tends to require an element of self-sufficiency so runners carry packs with water, nutrition and first aid kits. If you decide to quit running on the trail, you still will need to get back to the start – there aren’t any taxis in the mountains!
taking selfies with camels – but be careful, because some camels do not cooperate!
Running on Trails
Pornsac with buddies and Goaty McGoatface
into the Wadi Racer, you pass a camel farm. In the darkness, you know can sense the camels are watching you run past and the camels are probably thinking, “Phew! Those runners really stink!” Still, we still enjoy
The last 5km of the Wadi Racer detours from the original route and goes along ‘goat trails’ up and over the mountains for spectacular views of what I imagine closely resembles a lunar landscape. The trails are exposed without any shade, so things get toasty under the UAE sun. Moreover the open mountain terrain provides daunting views of the climbs ahead, which can be quite demoralizing. The goat trails are a great way of exploring nature, and if you happen to be running the Wadi Racer in the process, you can enjoy the sites with your running buddies. Remember: run safe and carry extra water! ■
Focus and Concentrate!
The Wadi Racer course is a classic combination of farm roads and wadi running, requiring constant focus. When you run the Dubai Marathon, you may gaze at the Burj al Arab as you pass – no problem. When you run Wadi Showka, you concentrate on the four square meters of terrain in front of you or you will trip, stumble and fall on the rocks. On the other hand, just three kilometers
Pornsac does the best camel selfies
Before sunrise at Wadi Showka
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ACTIVITY REPORT
FOOTPRINTS in the Himalayas Words by: Kasia Komorowska and Laura Al Watyan
In April, Gulf for Good took two groups of challengers trekking in the Himalayas: one to Bhutan with British adventurer Adrian Hayes, and the other to the Gokyo Lakes in the Everest region. They battled the unseasonal elements, camped in near freezing temperatures, took on an epic 1,000m climb in one day, and reached altitudes of 5300m+. Here, 2 fearless young women share their experiences. “Who can make this world a better place if not our children? Unfortunately many of them all over the world do not get a quality education where they can learn and develop. The above statement is the main reason why I decided to climb the Everest Mountains with Gulf for Good and help raise funds to support Street Child Nepal to improve the education system in the Brick Kiln Community in Kathmandu. I truly believe in the power of education to help fight poverty, so it was an easy decision to participate in the challenge. I thought, what is better than testing myself while contributing to a great cause. G4G provided a fantastic opportunity to be a part of this amazing experience. The organisation’s support prior to the event was terrific. They made sure to accommodate all of our needs and have done so much for various charities across the world. The motivation, help and hospitality of our trek leader, guides and porters was exceptional. The challenge itself was physically and mentally demanding, the hardest part started at our last 1,000m climb to reach the
top of the beautiful Renjo la Pass. This challenge pushed me to my absolute limits due to weather conditions and high altitude. It was the hardest climb I could ever imagine, considering the fact that I was suffering from altitude sickness. In tough times like this, you think about quitting, but I was adamant that I would not give up and thanks to a group of passionate individuals who showed me great support I made it all the way to the top. It has been a character building experience, giving me a self-confidence I didn’t previously have, and teaching me just how far we can go in order to reach our goals. It has been a big achievement. I highly recom-
mend participating in similar challenges that are aligned with your own values and passion. It is a self developing, unforgettable journey that shapes your life forever. The entire experience has been filled with remarkable and precious moments and each day brought different but incredible feelings. We were surrounded by breathtaking nature, rich culture and beautiful souls. I’m truly amazed by the hard work and kindness of the local people. They are bold and unique; despite tough living conditions, they represent simplicity and giving back for no reason. The challenge taught me to always believe in your inner strength and remember the importance of being appreciative and humble. Challenges like this make you grow as a person and realize how fortunate we are. I found the Glacial Lakes of Everest Trek extremely emotional and life changing, far exceeding all of my expectations. So grateful for the greatest adventure ever!”
Kasia, Glacial Lakes of Everest challenger
Kasia
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“When it came to training for this trek, I did a lot of cardio and stability training and I found having done Cross Fit for almost 2 years really helped in developing my persistence and stamina when facing a physically demanding challenge. And trekking in Bhutan was a real challenge. The first day in retrospect was the hardest because you still do not know exactly what to expect! I experienced new levels of altitude, camped for the first time, and was introduced to altitude sickness. After this journey, I see myself differently. Whilst on this journey I could feel my selfconfidence growing as well as a real belief in my mental toughness. Throughout the trek,
Tiger’s nest
I kept on realizing my comfort zone is much broader than I thought; my sense of persistence and desire to keep going also increasing with each passing day. I had a goal and I was intent on reaching it, whatever it took. I believe the most important lesson I learned throughout the trip is how much I learned about myself. The best thing about this experience was the journey itself. I have experienced trekking in snow, hail, rain, and hot sun – sometimes all within 1 hour! The scenery was breathtaking and as we climbed higher, it just got more and more stunning. It felt like you were on the set of ‘Game of Thrones’ and at any second a dragon could fly above you! What made the trip even more special was the group of people I had the pleasure to meet. Throughout the day, we would talk about a myriad of topics - from crypto currencies to the time when I was a child and intentionally tried to sharpen my finger with a pencil sharpener (and yes it’s as painful as it sounds!). Thus, after those countless conversations that I will cherish, I understand how people from different backgrounds and cultures can share similar views and thoughts, and can say with great certainty that we ended the trip a tight group. Glacial Lakes challengers
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On a trek like this, in a place like Bhutan, you can’t help but become introspective. My biggest surprise was proving my mental strength to myself. Each day, I would take a moment and reflect on the trip. It is still astonishing to me that I, Laura, a girl from Kuwait, could trek through harsh conditions and know that I handled it pretty well, given it was my first time to do anything like that. I did not expect this trek to be more of a mental challenge than a physical challenge, but it sure was and I am left with the knowledge that faced with any future challenge, I will surely reflect on this journey for encouragement.” ■
Laura, Bhutan challenger Laura Al Watyan
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EVENT REPORT
6X6 - SIX CONTINENTS, SIX IRONMEN Maria Conceicao attempts another world record Words + Photos by: Maria Conceicao
I look around; I’m in the middle of 2000 wetsuit-clad people all with the same distant, nervous look on their faces. Like me, they are thinking about the 3.8km swim, 180.2km bike and 42.2km we are about to begin. This is Ironman. It’s a 6:45am start in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. I know I can do the distances but Ironman events have strict cut off times - if you don’t make the times you’re out of the race. This is my first full ironman and I aim to complete one on each of the 6 continents in the shortest possible time. Before I know it we’re off. It’s a mad dash to the sea and I’m in. The choppy waves make it difficult; when I turn to breath I get slapped in the face by a wave and a mouth full of salty water. Finally as I exit the swim, I look at my watch; I’m 40 minutes under the cut-off time. I scream with absolute joy. The bike course is through some beautiful scenery on the South African coastline and fynbos (South African bush). But the panoramic views are soon ignored. The 2x 90km loops took me over 7 hours. When I get to transition I am overjoyed with my time. This gives me plenty of time to finish the run. There is so much support; families and friends have set-up for the day alongside the road, with comfy chairs and barbecues, to cheer on the triathletes.
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Ironman South Africa
Ironman Texas
Challenge Taiwan
Ironman Australia
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Location
Expo
Freebies
Briefing
Bike check-in
Swim
Bike
Run
Awards Party
Port Elizabeth is pleasant enough, the surrounding area is beautiful. There were some security concerns but I didn’t personally see any problems. 85/100 In The Woodlands near Houston, which is nice, although a bit prefabricated (bit like Disneyland but without he fun bits) 70/100
Good wide selection of different vendors, brands etc held in part of a nice shopping complex. 80/100
Back Pack, Towel and finishers T-shirt. 90/100
Good, well communicated 80/100
Was a very short check-in window and hence long, long queue 65/100
As my first I was super nervous but in the end it was good, reasonably calm and not too crowded, 1 lap. 75/100
Was nice, flat, great support. 80/100
Really good, nice buffet, good atmosphere 85/100
Good selection of brands and gear but it was outside and it was too hot most days. 70/100
Backpack, T-shirt, baseball cap 85/100
It was outside, extremely hot with no shade at all, I almost passed out 60/100
Was good, quick, helpful volunteers 80/100
Was ok, quite easy course, a bit boring f you like scenery while you ride. 75/100
Was flat, good support in most areas. 75/100
Nice buffet, well presented 85/100
No
Taiwan is amazing; Taitung is nice but feels a bit village like, not the easiest place to get to. 75/100
Limited compared to some, but an interesting variety of products and brands 70/100
Some hills, but not too bad, nice scenery 80/100
Was a nice run course, good volunteer support but otherwise very quiet 70/100
They call this course flat or undulating, but there is one super steep hill (have to go up it twice) a lot of people walked up it. 70/100
Was nice, flat, really good support throughout 80/100
It was a ceremony on the stage outside, no food., however as it’s Challenge you pay much less 70/100
Yes
Good and quite wide selection on offer. 80/100
A bit of struggle with communication, questions not answered very clearly, but nice people, very relaxed 60/100
Disorganised nobody seemed to know where the run and bike bags go etc, or the routes 65/100
Port Macquarie is a really nice place, seems quiet but comes to life a bit with the ironman. 75/100
I quite like Challenge policy, their entry fee is much cheaper, there are no free gifts but they have race specific items, like backpack for sale, backpack is around $40 75/100 No backpack but street gear bag is nice, finisher towel 65/100
Hated it, even though the start was rolling I found it to be crowded, was punched and kicked constantly and it was horrible muddy water and no wetsuit. 45/100 Amazingly clear freshwater reservoir. It was a wetsuit swim, quite crowded but the people are so polite so no violence. 80/100
I was a bit worried about hills and cut off time but it was fine. Amazing scenery, apparently (sorry I wasn’t looking) 80/100
Good, well communicated. 80/100
Good, quick, helpful staff 80/100
Great swim, really calm protected inlet, wetsuit, loads of space 80/100
Location
Expo
Freebies
Briefing
Bike check-in
Swim
Ironman Lanzarote
Once you look past the brit bars full of sunburnt pensioners drinking all day. Lanzarote has a lot to offer. 85/100
Very limited, was on a main street away for other activities. 65/100
Back pack, finisher t-shirt 80/100
Very good, and the guy was funny 85/100
Looked chaotic but was actually fine with helpful volunteers 80/100
Ironman Brazil
Held in part of Florianopolis, was nice, safe with decent restaurants. 80/100
T-shirt, finisher – shirt 50/100
Most of the race event is not held on the Venice Island (except the swim start) its in the metropolitan area of Venice, Its nice, easy access from the airport. 75/100
Ok to start but became a bit of a struggle, a lot of questions that nobody could hear, people were getting agitated. 60/100 Was ok to start with but when questions were asked it became a bit dysfunctional, noisy and nobody could hear anything. 60/100
Huge queues and pouring with rain, not happy 55/100
Challenge Venice
Really good selection, including a lot of local brands unknown to me, plus a lot of food outlets 85/100 Very limited selection even struggled to find a few basic items that I needed zero food outlets for the expo/village 65/100
Little bit challenging. Mass start (actually was not too bad except the first turn), some very strong current down the back end. 2 laps. 75/100
No challenge freebie as per normal but 8kg of food and a bottle of Prosecco form a sponsor. Pack back on sale for 40 euros was really nice. 80/100
The run was tough, I walked at least 15km of the 42 but I almost sprint down the ‘red carpet’ lined with cheering supporters and cross the line in 14 hours 21 minutes. ‘Maria Conceicao, You Are An Ironman!’ 3 weeks later and I’m in Texas, USA for continent number 2. The swim was ‘bedlam’, 2500 people fighting for space in a muddy lake. I am kicked, punched and have my legs grabbed constantly. It was a horrible swim and I just make the cut-off. The bike was 180km through the flat Texas toll roads. I eventually manage to finish in 7 hours – that’s a full working day for many people! On the run I’m feeling drained of all energy and I am really struggling to put one foot in front of the other.
Was fine, easy, relaxed. 80/100
Bike
Brutal! Not just the hills but also the wind. I am still amazed to day that I got through this race. Although brutal, the sense of achievement is amazing. 70/100 It was ok, Was ok, reasonably calm undulating, road sea, wetsuit swim, was a bit rough I had to be a bit in a lot of areas. tough to hold my Rained non-stop. space occasionally. 70/100 70/100 On paper it looked good, a straight line from Venice to the mainland but it was horrible, muddy shallow sea with strong current, a real struggle for me. 55/100
This bike course is ok apparently, but I had serious problems with my wheel bearings and really struggled to get around. 65/100
Was ok, location was nice but food selection was disappointing 55/100
Would I do it again Yes Overall Score 80%
Overall Score 72%
Overall Score 72%
Maybe Overall Score 74%
Run
Awards Party
It was ok, quite a hot run, but so happy that I had got through the bike stage that it didn’t matter. 75/100
Really nice, good food, friendly, good atmosphere, well presented 90/100
Some hilly, sections but mostly flat, crazy support, but it rained constantly. 70/100
Poor, no food, boring. 45/100
No Overall Score 65%
Basic, no food, but as its challenge you pay much less so can’t expect too much? 70/100
No Overall Score 69%
This was laps around a park, which sounds bad, but actually was quit nice as supporters start to recognise you and cheer you on more 70/100
Would I do it again Yes Overall Score 78%
I eventually cross the finish line with just enough strength left to lift my arms in celebration. The next race is 7 days later in Taiwan. With around 20 hours of travel to get there and a 13-hour time difference its almost midweek before I even arrive. When I wake up on race morning I head out to the race on autopilot, but it was one of my most enjoyable swims and the lake was so clean that I even had a few refreshing sips of water on the way. The bike course was beautiful apparently, however I don’t recall much of it. I was still sore from the previous race and I could feel it on every pedal stroke. When I got to the run I felt a huge wave of relief. Even though I still had to run 42km through the parks and coastline of Taitung.
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When I finished I literally did collapse. Lying on the massage table all I could think about was the fact that I had to pack my bags and head to Australia for the next race in 8 days time. To Taipei, then to Sydney, followed by a 4.5 hour drive to Port Macquarie. The swim was very spread out through a 1-lap course in calm saltwater. My swim was not fast by any means at 1:42, but it was comfortable. The pleasantness that I was feeling from the swim soon came to an end on the bike when I reached ‘the hills’. They weren’t long hills but, ‘wow’, they were steep. When I eventually finished the bike section it was almost dark and enthusiasm of the supporters was starting to dwindle a little. But I managed to trudge through it and finish Ironman number 4. Next was Lanzarote and although I had 2 weeks to recover (seemed a luxury) this was the one I was dreading the most. Lanzarote is famous for being the toughest Ironman race, a mountainous bike course with strong winds. Come race day the nerves were rattling more than ever, the mass start swim
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is known to be a bit of a brawl, but I had toughened up a bit since Texas. I held my space and pushed through the strong rip tides, where many people struggled. It was the bike I was worried about. I reached checkpoint after checkpoint just minutes before the cut-off time, amazed that I had made it at all. I almost quit several times, it was so painful. I enjoyed the run; in fact I walked most of it, still euphoric over the fact that I had completed the bike course. Crossing that finish line was one of the most accomplished moments of my life! Next, Brazil. 1 Week later. Brazil was the last race of my 6 continent challenge. It was a long and tiring journey from Lanzarote and I was still exhausted on race morning. The whole course was ok but it rained non-stop. I finished the race quicker than all previous races in 14 hours 13 minutes. My mission was accomplished, a full distance (Ironman) race on each of 6 continents in 56 days. Hopefully this will be recognized by Guinness as a World record. This is a testament that anybody can do
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this. I’m not a naturally athletic person; I only recently learnt how to swim. I appreciate that it costs money, however I managed to get sponsorship, from Dubai based KG International and Kcal Extra. Of course it needs is a lot of dedication and determination, but also a good training plan, good nutrition and the right sports gear. If I can do this then, so can you! ■
To follow Maria on her next challenge go to www.facebook.com/maria.conceicao
ACTIVITY REPORT
TRAINING
TO BE
MOUNTAIN FIT
Words + Photos by: Abdul Nasir Khamlichi
The very reason I got into mountaineering was because ofa former colleague of mine Nic Potter. Nic isn’t very tall, but he is a very stocky man.Within our group of friendshe was very well known for his infamous look of disappointment. The only time Nic was not disappointed was when he was taking pleasure in detailing his disappointment in you, in new and novel ways. Outside of this, he was the type of friend you could call on for literally anything, passionately loyal to those around him, he would always be there for you, firstly it was obviously to tell you how disappointed he was, but then to be by your side through thick and thin. He was incredibly sporting in his younger life, but found middle management and middle age a little too comfortable, his powerlifting and rugby playing days had left him with prolapses in five discs, which resulted in sciatica amongst other things.His back pain could be so bad that he would have to lay down in the middle of the office. He was also pre diabetic, which for those of you who do not know the term means that your blood sugar is higher than normal, but not yet high enough to be considered diabetic.It is also an indication that you could develop type 2 diabetes if you do not make some life style choices.
As we know, bad lifestyle choices are easy to come by in Dubai, but he was at the beginning of making better ones. When Nic asked me to join him on a trip to climb Kilimanjaro, I jumped at the chance without a second’s hesitation. Neither he nor I were particularly active at that point, or even vaguely ready for scaling a mountain, but the charity organising the trip, Gulf for Good (G4G), were outstanding in helping us prepare, putting on all sorts of walks and hikes and training sessions to get us ready. During one of our discussions around the trip, I asked Nic if there was anything I needed to know or do about the fact he was pre-diabetic. His response was typical for Nic, “don’t be soft” he said bluntly, then gave me the customary disappointing scour. As mentioned in my lastarticle,Kilimanjaro is an amazing introduction to mountaineering. I wish I could write about the hardships of the trip in a thrilling way that would make me sound like the adventurer Bear Grylls on an exotic African adventure, but for me it was just total enjoyment. Our G4G leader was a lovely women named ElaineKelly, infamous on Dubai’s yoga scene, a regular G4G trip leader and had previously summited ‘Kili’. At the end of every days hike she who would do yoga with usat the various camps along the route, we relaxed into her routines against the picture perfect images of the sun setting into the effortless Tanzanian landscape, then to cap it off on one night she literally sing us to sleep. The cold and the altitude made the summit push a little difficult, but 95% of the trip was singing songs, yoga, laughing with friends and looking down at the clouds across the African plane. On the way down from the summit, Nic and I were descendinga massive scree field that seem to stretch far down into the clouds below us. For those of you who have never walked on a scree hill, they are horrific things to walk up, as every forward motion is met with a nearly equal slip backwards. If you have ever accidently walked the wrong way up a set of escalators that is exactly how
it feels. So much of your precious energy is wasted as you first sink inwards and then backwards. On the way down however, a scree field turns into some of the best fun ever, equaling anything at Dubai Parks and Resorts. As you move down any mountain the levels of oxygen increase and you get stronger, this combined with the fact you that can slide on your bottom down hundreds of meters of terrain in mere minutes when it took you hours to hours to walk up. Half way down the field and about four or five hours away from camp, I noticed Nic was no longer moving downhill. Instead of running to pick up momentum and then jumping into the air to execute a perfect bottom slide, Nic was sat facing downhill hunched over totally motionless. I figured he had a picked up some stones in his boots, which is an occupational hazard amongst the professional bum sliders, and had stopped to remove them. After a few minutes however, he was still sitting in the scree, head slumped forward, looking completely out place in his brightlycoloredorange jacket against the dark colored stones that made up the scree field. 25 OUTDOORUAE
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I slowly made my way to find him completely still, breathing deeply, eyes focused directly in front of him, but unable to talk. One of the questions I get asked a lot is how on earth I prepare for climbing the Matterhorn or for a matter of fact any mountain in the UAE. My response is always thatI find training in the UAE probably the easiest aspect. Maliha is approximately fifty five minutes from my house in the Marina, within that time I am transported from the metropolitan hustle and bustle and high rise towers to a stunning red Martian landscape. You don’t even need a 4X4 to do it, I drive there in a very mundane Audi A6 and park at the car park. On arrival you will be met by a sea of sand dunes that look like an orange ocean that has been frozen in time crashing against a cliff face that stretches far across the desert. I spend at least an hour or two hiking up and down the tallest sand dunes I can findas I navigate around the Fossil rock range. I finish by finding an easy simple route up to the top of the cliffs and am rewarded with an exceptional view of the mountains of Fujairah on one side and the Dubai Skyline on the other. It is outstanding training, and I really love the fact that more often than not I am able to take my children with me for the hike. Explorer have a wonderful book that describes not only this area in detail, but a whole host of fantastic routes that lay within a few hours of Dubai. When I am not in the desert I am trying to get in as many hours training as I can to increase my aerobic base. I touched on this previously in last month’s article, but the idea is that to get truly “mountain fit” I need to train an awful lot smarter than harder. I grew up on the Rocky and Jean Claude Van Dam movies, the five minute montage of hard training to cool music shaped my view of how training should be done. Whenever I got into a gym or went for run, in my head I had to push as hard as possible for the entire time to get any benefits. As I successively failed and struggled at longer endurance events, I eventually begun to question the legitimacy of Rocky being able to win a world championship by punching legs of lamb and chasing chickens. Thankfully I picked up two key books that accelerated my understanding of training for endurance events. The first is “Be Iron Fit”
by Don Fink, who has completed over 30 Iron Man races and coached untold number or world classathletes. The second is “Training For the New Alpinism” by Steve House. Steve is to the Alpine World what Lionel Messi is to football. He was awarded the UIAA Achievement Award in 2014, which is a little like footballs golden boot award. Both of these books introduced me to a way of training that was completely alien to me in my 20s and early 30s. The idea that you do not have to be killing yourself all the time.Although the sport of long distance triathlons and Alpinism are ultimately different, they share quite a few similarities. In both sports, participants need to be able to intelligently pace and fuel themselves to be able to work for hours on end. What I picked up from both was the idea of training way down in Zone 1 and Zone 2 for way over 85% of the time. Rather than my traditional all out crazy effort all of the time, I learned to dial back the training to ensure that I was in the right heart rate zones to maximize the return I would get. If the idea of heart rate zones is as clear as a summer sandstorm, let me try to explain
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using myself a guinea pig. Different people categories heart rate zones differently, I have seen three, five and even seven zones. What I would always suggest is speaking to a professional or having an initial read of the two books mentioned to get a far more informed view of it than I am able to give. In essence, the zones are broken down using percentages of your maximum heart rate. Personally, I use the Zones from “Be Iron Fit”, which means with a maximum heart rate of 201 beats per minute my zones look a little like this:
Zones heart rate Zone 1
111
Zone 2
152
Zone 3
173
Zone 4
181
Zone 5
192
The books differ slightly on the total times in each zones, but both say that Zone 3 is the “junk”zone that delivers the least return for the time invested. Sadly Zone 3 is statistically where people like me, who try to get fit on their own without a professional coach or do it without proper research spend their days, training hard enough so as to not feel easy and not hard enough to be really pushing themselves to the maximum.
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If all of this sounds a little too much like overkill for a stroll in the desert and you don’t happen to have a heart rate monitor a good guide to training in zone 2 is that one should be able to hold a polite conversation about the weather and complete the entire activity simply by breathing through ones nose. As Nic sat there motionless on a scree field high on the Kilimanjaro plains, hours from anyone, with the wind howling around us, I thankfully remembered the five minutes of research I did into training with people who are diabetic. The problem was we were now on the morning after summiting, andhad been climbing for over 18 hoursnonstop, this, the altitude and the cold had finally taken its toll on his sugar level, he told me later on that he’d felt too cold and sick from the altitude so hadn’t eaten anything for the entire time, right thereand then on the scree he literally crashed as his body began to shut down. I had read that this may happen if he did not fuel himself, luckily I had a high energy sports bar to hand and slowly fed it to him. As he slowly began to get more energy, he looked at me disappointedly and announced that“if you ever put your finger in my mouth again I will bite it off” I would love to continue this story in some sort of heroic fashion, telling you about tales of how I saved Nic and after that incident, I decided to stay fit and fight off type 2diabetes and that moment led me to today to try to raise awareness with the Al Jalila Foundation… but that wouldn’t be true and this story isn’t about me. When we got back from Kili Nic was determined to stay fit, so he joined the largest and infamous local triathlon club: Tri Dubai. From the outside looking in TriDubai look like an army of super fit athletes, they even have their own red and white TriDubai uniform, you may have seen it if you have ever happened to share a track with them, as they always seem to effortlessly glide past you without breaking a sweat. For mere mortals like me, the group at first glance seems almost impenetrable but if you take a closer look, they are an amazing family of people who are willing to help anyone get into the sports of running, swimming or cycling. They have free group sessions in all of these sports and even go to the effort of having beginner groups. These sessions run all across town and both the evening and the morning. In Nic, they took a grumpy, overweight pre diabetic man, and took him to his first Sprint Triathlon, then to his first Olympic Triathlon then to his first half Iron man and then… you probably guessed it his first full iron man. Nic, a man who would have agonizing back spasms so bad he would lay on the floor in an open office, completed amarathon, an ultra-marathon, ultra-distance bike rides and swimming events and twofull Ironman events. For those of you who do not know what
an Iron man is, it’s one of the most grueling events a human can do. First you are asked to swim 3.86KMs, then cycle 180.25km for good measure, once they are complete, you have the small task of running a full marathon(42.20Kms) . Each section has a strict cut off times and should your whole day take longer the 18 hours, your time will not count. Throughout the process Nic had outstanding support from TriDubai (but also tells me that the tale isn’t complete without mentioning Neil Flannigan of Innerfight – his coach). Three years after leaving Dubai he still speaks incredibly highly of TriDubai, and refers to them as an almost family like network of amazing people who readily and happily take time and effort to induct, advice and encourage new members. The fact that some of those people have completed some of the toughest races in the world (Look up the Norseman triathlon) is icing on the cake. His exact words were that ‘I believe it’s truly one of kind, without measure anywhere else in the world’. It really is not a stretch of the imagination when I say they I think they not only gave him extra years on his life to spend time with his daughter (Thankfully she looks like her mum) but the quality of life they inspired him to attain is almost
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unrecognizable compared to the path he was on. Going from not being active to now completing triathlons, ultra-endurance races and the like is a big stretch, and it is most definitely not for everyone. If you’re reading this, and want to get active, the Al Jalila Foundation works with Landmark Group one of the leading advocates for diabetes awareness in the region and the organisers of the annual Beat Diabetes walk which brings thousands of people together to ‘beat diabetes’. They are a fountain of knowledge when it comes to understanding Type 2 diabetes and what you can do to help make some positive life style choices. I have never been a member of Tri Dubai, but I am on their Facebook group, I am always amazed at how responsive and helpful the community is when someone like me posts a question about how to properly inflate a tire, or wants to know how to join one of their many activities, or even how to join the sport. In writing this article, I spoke to Nic about his look of disappointment, his response was, “I appreciate you attempting to write something…. I remain only mildly disappointed” I promise though, he is quite nice when you get to know him…. Finally I will start logging my training on Instagram @naskhamlichi, so please give me a follow and feel free to reach out. As mentioned in my last article, I am also raising money for the Al Jalila Foundationtowards diabetes awareness at www.hopasports. com/en/matterhorn ■
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ACTIVITY REPORT
Summer Running in UAE Words + Photos by: David O’Hara
People often ask me how I run in the summer in the Middle East, and one solution I found is running on a treadmill. I lived in Iraq for years and understood at the time that the best place for me to run in the summer is on a treadmill. If you want to run, you can adapt your running to fit the environment, and in UAE there are many options. Running outdoors in the summer is not only possible, but a great opportunity to bump up your fitness before the fall season. Before lacing up your shoes and hitting the road and trail, do a realistic self-assessment of your acclimatizationand fitness. If you are an inexperienced runner or new to Dubai, then you should probably focus on cross training indoors and nutrition first.
Safety
I’d be remiss not to start a discussion on summer running in UAE without mentioning safety upfront. Running in extreme heat conditions is quite taxing on your body. You need to carry water with you and most importantly, drink it. You may sweat excessively running outdoors, so think about electrolyte replenishment. The sun is a major factor and you can protect yourself with hat, sunglasses and high SPF lotion. I always carry a first aid kit in my pack. It’s just as important that you plan your run accordingly: running early morning and late at night is often easier, when the sun is not scorching. You may
Camels endure summers better than runners
Kite Beach has a nice running track
select a route with known water stops along the way.
excuse to not run on the treadmill if you have access to one. The treadmill is a great running buddy, because once you set the Where to Run machine to your pace, you can keep going One of the great features of living in UAE is at that pace until you make the conscious that you can run virtually anywhere. A classic decision to quit. It’s so simple – you just run. favorite running spot is Kite Beach (GPS People whose natural pace varies quite a N25° 10’ 0.06’’, E55° 12’ 17.71’’), which has bit may have to adjust their running style a 6.8km running path and ample facilities to the treadmill’s constant pace. If you want along the way. We often run around our to make it complicated, then adjust the neighborhood for shorter runs, because of incline. For example, you start running at a the convenience. Part of the beauty of runcomfortable pace and every minute increase ning is that you can always find the incline by 0.5%. Most a good spot to run, if you want machines have 15% incline, to run. For the more experiso that’s thirty minutes. If enced runners, you may want it’s easy, then continue to to get up super early and head decrease every minute for out to Mlieha and run the sand an hour of elevated running. dunes or give Wadi Showka a If you are a naysayer who try – but you should research complains that it’s “boring’, these routes in advance and you may want to embrace never go alone. the treadmill and focus on your running form and Dreaded Treadmill breathing.Treadmills are I love the treadmill. Really. great once you figure them Treadmills have a bad reputaout. Full disclosure: for safetion among runners, for what ty purposes, I recommend Treadmills rock - respect I feel are the wrong reasons. not taking selfies while runthem in summer In the summer, there is no ning on the treadmill.
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Devils Plunge is tough in the summer
Equipment
Running in the summer heat is different. You need to carry water, so you can either carry bottles in your hands for shorter distances or have a Camelbak with a couple liters of water. When it’s really hot, I like to freeze the water bottles, so I run with bottles of ice that melt during the run and I can enjoy cold water. Protecting your skin from the sun is important as well. Many runners wear hats with flaps to cover their ears and neck. I usually wear two shirts in the summer – one compression and a loose fitting long sleeve shirt, which keeps me cool. Always run with your phone, as you never know when you will need it – hopefully only to take a camel selfie!
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Be prepared and cautious if you run in the desert
routes where water is available along the way, so you can rehydrate easily. If you go to the desert or the mountains, only go with experienced runners. It’s difficult to do a self-assessment on your condition when you are physically stressed. Things can go wrong out there, regardless of how good of a runner you are.
Cross training
Summer running is not for everybody, so take advantage of the down time and do cross training. Summer is a good time to hit the gym and build your core. Solid runners have a strong core. (Mental note to self:
Work on your core!) You can find a trainer and do some serious workouts, which will make you more athletic and maintain your fitness.
Nutrition!
Today is always the best time to think about your nutrition. It doesn’t matter if it’s summer or winter, or if you are in UAE or Paris. Nutrition is an oft overlooked aspect to good fitness. Eat well – good whole food, small portions, while avoiding junk food and processed food. We all know it sounds simple, but implementing good nutrition consistently is as challenging as running 100km a week. The right approach to nutrition will make a big impact on your running.
What’s next?
How to Run in the Summer
Sign up for running events. There are a wide range of running events in UAE – from 5km road runs to 100km ultramarathons in the mountains. The summer schedule is a bit light, but there are some events if you look for them. Here are some of the websites I use to find events:
Running in the summer requires planning. Your pace may be slower and your effort level higher than you expect, but don’t overexert yourself. Understand that the summer heat and humidity takes a toll. Most elite runners consider 10C to be the perfect temperature for competition, not 40C. Running early in the morning is a good way to change your fitness routine and adjust to the summer conditions. Try to find running
1. www.urbanultra.com 2. www.dubairunning.com 3. www.supersportsuae.com 4. www.premieronline.com 5. www.hopasports.com
Try Cross Training with Coach Lee
Running near home before work
Remember – be safe, plan well, bring water and enjoy! ■
Run with friends at a local event
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Words + Photos by: Paula, Caduceus Medical
Living in the UAE, affords us easy access to all kinds of incredible outdoor activities. Be it offroading, trekking, diving, mountain biking, kayaking, surfing, desert camping there is something for everyone. With the pleasure, occasionally comes the pain of injury which I am sure many of you will have experienced. One of challenges with outdoor sports is they are often undertaken in a ‘Wilderness’ type environment. Wilderness can be defined as a remote geographical location more than an hour from definitive medical care. The key considerations when participating in these activities include the dramatic impact of the environment, changing weather conditions, extreme heat to extreme cold, rain, difficulty in navigating the terrain and limited communication links. Prevention is always better than cure. Preparing an emergency action plan for your activity, including checking weather, notify30
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ing others such as family of your planned route, ensuring you have basic first aid equipment appropriate for your activity and a mechanism for calling or accessing emergency services will minimise the risks. Despite the best laid plans, accidents happen, its par for the course particularly with extreme sports. Being prepared for any accident or emergency and having the confidence, as well as the competence, to deal with the situation
is an absolute must. It is recommended that outdoor sport enthusiasts undertake an approved First Aid course, to gain a competent skill level. To get you started you can use the A, B, C, D, E approach to First Aid, it is a simple and easy to remember structure that can literally save a life, always treat what kills first. Before using the A,B,C,D,E system, rescuers should always start with the 3 S’s. Safety, Stimulation, Shout for Help.
Safety
Does the environment pose any risk to the rescuer or the casualty? Consider the mechanism of the injury
Stimulation
Talk to the casualty, are they conscious? If they are conscious ask if they have any pain, illnesses, allergies.
Shout for Help
Call other members of the group to assist, and call emergencies if alone call emergency services immediately On completing the 3 S’s rapidly move on to the A, B, C, D, E assessment.
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A - Airway
Can the casualty talk to you in full sentences? if they can the airway is clear. Listen for unusual noises such as gurgling, snoring, wheeze. Clear the airway as quickly as possible, usually by positioning them on their side if unconscious or sitting upright if conscious.
B - Breathing
Is the casualty breathing? Look at the chest for normal rise and fall with both sides moving equally. Unequal movement can indicate a life threatening emergency. Observe the colour of the skin, a bluish, grey tone often means poor oxygen levels. If the casualty is not breathing you may need to assist them using rescue breaths
C - Circulation
Does the casualty have a pulse and is it regular and strong? Check by feeling at the wrist, or neck. If you can’t feel it you may have to compress the chest (CPR - cardiopulmonary resuscitation) Check for any signs of active bleeding you may have to apply pressure to the wound to control bleeding and if it’s a limb injury consider elevating it, without causing pain. Are they showing signs of dehydration? Give them water, even better an electrolyte drink
D - Disability
Consider the risk of neck and back injury avoid any movement. Is the casualty conscious, and orientated? If they are unconscious their airway is at risk, manage as in Airway. If they are conscious ask simple questions such as name, where they are, date to ascertain any potential injury to the brain. Is there any sign of obvious fracture? If there is immobilise the limb to minimise movement.
E- Exposure / Environment
Check the casualty from head to toe, looking for bruising, rashes, swollen areas, paying particular attention to the abdomen
where internal bleeding may have occurred. Check for burn, bite, sting marks and identify with casualty what may have caused them. Consider the temperature of the environment. Does the casualty need to be cooled / warmed? Do you need to move the casualty? Plan how you can do this without causing injury to yourself or further injury to the casualty. Most wilderness injuries and illnesses are relatively minor in nature with the 6 most common injuries being: 1. Wounds and infections 2. Burns 3. Knee and Ankle Injuries 4. Blisters
5. Dehydration 6. Shock However, if they are left untreated they can become significant. Using the A,B,C,D,E system to assess and reassess assists the rescuer to keep the casualty stable until definitive medical services take over care. Since safety is of paramount importance for the adventure academy we will offer during May and indoor introduction to wilderness first aid. The introductions should give you some basic knowledge and should encourage you to do a proper and certified first aid course which is not only useful for the wilderness since accidents can happen anywhere. ■
SAVE THE DATE
SATURDAY 26TH MAY 2018 From 9am to11am
Engine Health and Fitness on Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai The introduction will be run by DHA approved CADUCEUS MEDICAL TRAINING CENTRE and will be FREE TO ATTEND Please RSVP on www.columbiaacademy.ae Should you be interested in attending a Wilderness First Aid Courses, come along to one of our classes and join liked minded adventurers. For further details, please visit www.dubaifirstaid.com or contact Caduceus Medical Training Centre by email training@dubaifirstaid.com or call 04 5547 056. OUTDOORUAE
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MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
MUSANDAM UNTOUCHED Words + Photos by: Giles Richardson
I’m curled up with my knees bent towards my chest, my head only able to move a few centimetres above me otherwise I will hit the sharp rock above. I can hear the wind whistle and whirl around me, as I lay in this animal lair. Thankfully my thermarest mat provides some mild padding from the rock floor and shields me from the dried-up goat droppings under me. I can barely move, and even my feet protrude from the entrance, exposed to the elements of the wind and driving rain. Fortunately, I had the hindsight to empty my dry sack and use this as a protective cover bag over my feet and legs. I’ve bivouacked in some obscure places in the past, but not on top of a mountain, squeezed in a small rock cave half the size of my body! I had previously been searching the summit area, moving quickly around, beaming my Petzl head-torch around in the twilight to find some adequate shelter for what I sensed would be a wild night. My location - Pano Peak (real name – Khawr Habalayn Peak), some 714m above the majestic Musandam fjords. Six hours later, I wake up dreary eyed at dawn and there is dead calm. I wiggle and twist my body out of the lair, into the twilight and stretch my body. This is where my story begins. Let’s rewind 36 hours…… my orange sea touring kayak is loaded on the roof of my blue Toyota 4WD, car packed with a carefully planned equipment list. My expedition list has been weeks of meticulous planning – yes, I need to take this, yes if only I had space, ok – strike it off the list. Gear mitigation experience has been gathered from similar kayak expeditions. Equipment planning needs to be precise on these types of trips due to limited kayak storage space. This was especially challenging on this adventure due to the amount of camera and videography equipment I planned to take, along with the
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necessity to include some hiking and camping equipment. The end goal was to film and direct a short movie– which can be viewed at www.vimeo.com/236133422. Most of equipment also needs to be packed in dry bags and in the specific order, so gear can be accessed quickly. I had no room for a tent or sleeping bag, so would need to rely on a sleeping bag wool liner (which provides a mere +2DegC of extra body warmth) in the hope that I would find some adequate shelter! However, I was expecting more protection from the elements than what turned out. The plan for this expedition was straightforward. A month prior, an adventure enthusiast friend of mine (John Young) and I planned a kayak to this Peak (credit to John for mapping this).We set off and paddled out from the fishing village at the only accessible point into Khawr Najd. We reached our destination via a detour in about five hours, and hauled the double kayak onto the pebbly beach. We explored the area, lit a fire, ate well, camped out under the stars and got bitten by mosquitoes. The next morning, we rose early, and after consuming some strong coffee, started the climb up into the wadi and navigate the steep technical climb to eventually meet the plateau. The vantage point was stunning, however we needed to press on and continue to the summit peak. I estimate we reached the summit approximately 4 hours from start. Oh my God - this location, views and total isolation looking down into the Khawr captivated me. The summit provided a complete 360-degree view into the southern part of the Musandam fjords and the Straits of Hormuz. I immediately decided that I would make a repeat trip, loaded with my camera equipment - and this is where my next adventure was quickly taking shape in my head. Back in Dubai and finally, a week later I have some head space to re-engage on my prior thoughts. We had returned safely and I was still massively buzzed up about returning to Pano Peak but wanted the return journey to be executed with a twist? I then started studying the Musandam sea charts and kayak distances through the Straits of Hormuz. My plan was to kayak back out and climb Pano Peak, do some videography and capture the amazing views but extend the distances to
essentially make the journey more challenging. The uniqueness of this destination other than having the most ultimate vantage point of the fjords was its extreme in accessibility to reach – hence the title of this article. My new extended route meant kayaking along the entire length of the Khawr into the Straits of Hormuz, turn north and paddle approximately 10km along the rocky cliff-face and turn into the next main Khawr. I would then find a suitable mooring point, attempt the long hike up to the ridge and onto the summit. I would then bivouac at the summit and capture the panorama of the fjords at sunrise. Sounds straightforward? I phone John – and after some discussion my plan was agreed. Date was set, logistics, food and shared expedition equipment agreed. I then receive a phone call 24 hour prior to departure regrettably telling me he now cannot join the trip. (work priority came up – yes, we have all been in this situation). I am now going solo….
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Good news. I had been tracking the weather and the forecast looked stable, although since it is winter this can be highly unpredictable in the mountains. Since I was now going solo – I needed to tweak my gear list, including checking the sea-worthiness and preparation of my single kayak. The total round trip distance would be approximately 50km kayak, 10km hiking distance with a 700m vertical ascent to the summit. I calculated this should be (just) ‘doable’ in one day considering the limited winter daylight hours and subject to tides in the Straits, wind and chop. As I paddle through the silky-smooth water into the main Khawr Najd fjord, the water surface is like a mirror. Each paddle stroke powers me further into Khawr Habalayn, and I’m constantly focusing on my navigation to the next headland. My Garmin GPS watch helps track my precise compass bearing, distance and pace. Suddenly a silver coloured ribbon of hundreds of fish launch into the air, there one second and gone the next. Kilometre after kilometre I progress. After an hour, the water develops a confused look and the chop builds and splashes onto my spray deck. I see in the distance a few Omani fishing boats passing in the way off distance. I am all alone, and to be brutally honest very exposed in the large expanse of water that surrounds me, paddling equidistant between the towering cliffs either side of my dwarf size craft. This is where it crosses my mind how vulnerable I am if I do capsize. Although I am wearing a life-jacket and my kayak is a self-bailing hybrid design, the thought of how I would recover my craft if I did capsize needs to be discarded from my mind. This was especially so since it is loaded with expensive electronics equipment. There is no back-up plan – and it’s a matter of focusing on keeping a straight nautical line and watching for any irregular swell that may hit my kayak side on and cause me to capsize.
I make steady progress, and have small breaks to suck water from my camel-sack bladder and keep my energy levels up with bananas and muesli bars. The challenging part of this long kayak section is since the Khawr sides are vertical cliff faces, there is a very limited spot to easily moor up to and take a rest. If you decide to stretch your legs, this means taking a side excursion into one of limited inlets- meaning extra paddling distance! I continue and ignore these rest spots and eventually after 2 ½ hours reach the entrance to the Straits of Hormuz. Looking straight ahead is Persia, a mere 50km away over the horizon. As I round the entrance of the Khawr and head north, the swell significantly increases, making both navigation and balance challenging. I paddle skirting close to the side of the cliff face for protection, only to realize this makes the instability of the kayak worse, as back swell bounces off the cliff unstabilizing my side motion. Concentration is paramount and I was not enjoying this experience. An hour later I thankfully could relax slightly when I navigate left into the Khawr entrance and the swell decreases back to calm waters. I am now close to the point where part one of my journey is complete. I haul my kayak onto the pebbly beach and tether it to an old discarded fishing boat. Rucksack is packed and I start to climb up into the steep wadi and onto an escarpment. An hour later I pass the remnants of
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an old village, hundreds of years old. The area is scattered with many ancient stone houses, some with clay pots lying abandoned on the floor. I continue to walk and stumble upon a large perfectly flat circular grassy area surrounded with a small stone wall. Was this once the village football pitch or perhaps a communal area? I continue, and stumble upon a nearby area with some peculiar rock slabs pointing vertically. I then recognize this as being the village cemetery. I study the rock slabs and grave outlines, alerted by the graves less than one metre long. I wonder how many children had died during the existence of man living up in these wilds? I think about the hardships of how these village tribes people must have lived during this time. They would have lived off an existence from growing crops and herding goats. One advantage would have been their prime lookout over the Khawr for defending themselves against the pirates along the coast. I continue to make my way along the ridge line and the evening draws in. As I make my way up the rocks towards Pano peak summit, I feel the cold wind and droplets of rain on my face. My final challenge for the day is where am I going to shelter for the night? ■
www.flickr.com/photos/153051011@N05/ Musandam Untouched video: www.vimeo.com/236133422 www.Instagram.com/gilesrichardson www.facebook.com/giles.richardson.750
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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
Words + Photos by: Denise Ostermann
As long the weather is still bearable but also due to a friend’s visit to the region we have decided to go on another road trip to Oman. A country with amazing landscapes and so many hidden and unveiled gems. There is always something to discover. Living in the region for the past 14 years, I am over and over impressed about the variety of outdoor options offered a stone’s throw away from home. Looking at Nizwa area as our destination this time, we started off from Abu Dhabi on Thursday late afternoon after work. Even though we know it will take us approximately five hours to reach it is a good choice to do that on Thursday itself to make the best out of the weekend. The easiest way to reach Nizwa is through Al
Ain Mazayed border post. Hassle free and with the new e-visa option very convenient border crossing saved us quite a lot of time. The street after the border is very good but in most parts not illuminated very well. Especially at night caution is advised as camels or other animals might cross the highway. If you take the Bahla exit and drive a small and curvy way up the mountains for a few minutes it will take you to a sleepy little village called Misfah Al Abryyin. There are actually two small bed & breakfast places in this town. Misfah Old House and Misfah Hospitality Inn. You might be wondering where the street takes you and at some stage it seems impossible to continue. But just keep going and you will reach the Misfah Hospitality Inn. Both B&B’s are run by the same Omani family and they will warmly welcome you with Arabic qahwa. Don’t expect luxury but a very clean and lovely place where you sleep on mattresses on the floor and share a bathroom with the rest of the guests. And this is exactly what makes it so special.
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The next day for breakfast delicious Arabic specialties will expect you and a stunning view. Just a great feeling to wake up to. With the goal to reach snake canyon - or Wadi Bani Awf as the locals call it - this day we started to hit the road early. It is a large Wadi (dry riverbed) located in the Wilayat Al Rustaq. Even though it is only 40km to reach, the off road track drags it on for around two hours. And of course you will have to stop a couple of times on the route in order to enjoy the stunning views the Hajar mountains have to offer - and maybe take a small break from the straining drive. Make sure you have the right car! A good 4x4 is a must on this way as otherwise you will probably not make it back up the mountain. During the winter time you might want to make sure you checked the weather forecast and keep following the cloud movements. In case the clouds will thicken make your way back as it is very dangerous to be in this area during rainfall! There are different spots from where you can enter the Snake Canyon. The first one needs a bit more skills in rock climbing and abseiling and professional gear. But if you keep driving for another 5km approximately you will reach the end of the canyon in Al Zammah village from where you can start the hike. Good shoes are required as you will have to climb over some big rocks. If you go during the winter months it will be more likely that you find some nice water pools which can be quite refreshing. So don’t forget to take along your swimsuits.
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On the way back we just had a stop at house Bimah for some refreshing snacks and drinks. Such an idyllic and peaceful place. We could have spent more time taking a short nap but we wanted to make it back before sunset in order not to be stuck on this mountain road during the dark. We met a lot of very nice and helpful people on the way which made this trip extra special. But also in Misfah Al Abryyin there are nice paths to enjoy a shorter hike through the green terraces used for farming. If you want to go for a little bit longer hike ask Mr. Abdulla who runs the hotel. He will happily take you to some beautiful wadi close by. As we had to head back to Abu Dhabi the same day we started around noon time which allowed us to have some nice dinner in Al Ain at the Waresh restaurant. ■
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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
WHAT MAKES
BALI A TOURISTS’ DELIGHT? Words + Photos by: Bandana Jain
Bandana Jain explores the gorgeous green paddies, idyllic beaches and kaleidoscopic sunsets to find an island that is melting pot of multifarious experiences. Bali, world’s best- known resort islands promises a spectacular holiday with yearround balmy temperatures and motley mix of lifetime experiences. What Bali has to offer may be found in many other territories on the globe, but it is the multifarious experiences on offer that make it truly divine for its tourists. A land of geographical wonders- Bali is one island where one can relish the beauty of diverse topographies like sea, cliffs, volcanic mountains, caves and waterfalls, rainforests, rivers. On my recent trip to Bali, I was amazed when a local Balinese asked me if it was my first time in this island paradise. Though this query left me little perplexed (after all, with 7 continents and over 250 countries on this planet, why would I think of repeating a tourist destination!), but soon I realized why his query was rather well-founded. Bali is one place that will leave you asking for more and hence in advertently calls for revisits. So, what are you waiting for? Here are the reasons why Bali makes for an awesome experiential holiday:
1) Experience terrace farming
Terraces are a classic feature on the
landscape of Bali. The rice cultivation on varying levels follows the natural contours of the escarpments, which make for great panoramic views. I had heard lots about terrace farming but had never envisaged that terrace farms could be so spectacular. There are several places to view these fields- I had the chance to visit Tegallalang’s stunning rice terraces in Ubud, which according to my guide, offer the most breathtaking views. Meandering my way through these fields through the mini step lets here and there, I gazed at the fabulous views of the emerald farms that are bound to leave one awestruck. Remember not to rush and just comb your way lazily through the fields in the afternoon sun, relaxing at some of the vantage points sipping a cool drink at tiny joints out there, watching happy locals busily harvesting their crops.
2) View amazing sunsets
It goes without saying that sunsets are easy to be admired, but their beauty is hard to be articulated. The sunset at Tanah lot temple was mesmerizing. I could have easily sacrificed a hundred landmarks for this surreal experience. Bali is a treasure trove of picturesque places to watch the sun go down. The sun dipping down the horizon at Uluwatu temple and Tanah Lot temple
have given Bali a firm footing for world’s most spectacular sunsets- the array of colours, silhouettes, and overall vistas can only be felt and admired. The silhouette of temple premises seen against the backdrop of mesmerizing sunsets with waves crashing against the cliff sides is a sight to cherish and behold.
3) Experience Hinduism in abundance
Bali isn’t just known for the beauty of its nature, idyllic beaches, iconic temples and paddy fields. It is steeped in rich culture and religious tradition where interesting festivals are held every year. As one of Indonesia’s major tourism draws, it is also renowned for its culture, including its unique tradition of Hinduism with its heavy emphasis on art and rituals. Okay, I have seen many countries (other than India) with Hindu temples and huge idols of deities, but nowhere close to Bali. Roundabouts with artistically crafted idols of Arjuna, Ghatotkach, etc. left us awestruck as much as baskets of palm leaves full with flowers, sweets (as offerings) can be seen at entrances of homes, shops and even hotels signifying the rich and profound Hinduism culture in Bali.
4) Relish diverse geographical surroundings
Bali is one island where one can relish the beauty of diverse topographies like sea, cliffs, volcanic mountains, caves and waterfalls, rainforests and rivers. Trekking on Mount Kintamani, the volcanic mountain is a major tourist draw card as is the Benoa beach with its flurry of water sports.
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5) Try yoga and meditation in world class retreats
Bali is often considered a ‘wellbeing destination’. The yoga gatherings out here attract yogis and spirituality seekers from around the globe for its exotic locations and serene natural settings. It is known as a place to relax and find enlightenment and with that in mind head for the Yoga Barn which is one of the most famous yoga retreats on the island. Situated in quiet and contemplative Ubud, the Yoga Barn has multiple studios and a range of programme for all levels of ability. You can even book to stay here for a retreat lasting several days and there are cleansing and detox programs that will help you to relax and adjust to a slower pace of life.
6) Get arty in myriad ways
Bali is filled with art. In fact, art lies at the heart of Balinese culture. From cute handmade art pieces to local wooden and stone carvings, mind-boggling bamboo structures– Bali oozes with creativity at every nook and corner. Hence for an art lover, Bali is nothing but a heaven. The Ubud district is widely known as the cultural heartland of Bali where rows of shops celebrate craftsmanship through souvenirs and varieties of art décor and batik paintings. Life- size statues of Buddha crafted in stone and myriad pieces for home decor ideas are enough to bug an art fanatic to go overboard on his shopping spree. The stone carvings in Batubulan village are also worth seeing. So, If you are planning to refurbish your home, a shopping trip to Bali is the perfect idea.
7) Take a leap on a giant swing
Looking for some adrenaline rush, but of a
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different kind? Tegallalang rice terraces offer you a ride of a life time on its giant swing tied from two huge coconut trees, high atop a hill. Gaze at the amazing terrace views, while you swing on this ride. There are many other places which offer this experience like Zen Hideaway on the mighty Agung river. Wherever you decide to go, the experience is worth it!!
8) Try myriad water sports all rolled in one island
The mighty Agung River is the life source of Bali – and for most, getting up, close and personal with this spectacular river is truly unforgettable. This river promises some of the most memorable river rafting experience, with several wildlife and stunning waterfalls greeting you on the way as you drift through the untouched Balinese rainforest. It’s like travelling through a long -lost world with monkeys playing in the trees and thousands of different bird songs. Not only river rafting, Bali is haven for water sports of all kinds. Benoa beach is famous for scuba diving, sea walks, parasailing, wakeboarding, fly boarding, cliff jumping, canyoning, surfing, stand- up paddle boating. Any water sport, in fact, you name it and it is there!
9) Visit world famous bars
Bali is renowned for delightful array of cafes and bars, some of which I hope to explore on my future visits. Rock Bar topped my list and nothing could stop me from
exploring it. Located along the coastline of AYANA Resort and Spa and hailed as one of the world’s best bars, this bar sits atop the ocean at the base of AYANA’s towering cliffs. Evening and night time is especially magical at this bar, albeit in a more intimate, sensual way, with twinkling stars above, spot-lit ocean and cooler night air. The bar’s innovative, minimalist design exploits the natural formation and character of the rock on which the bar sits. The unique descent to the bar is via an inclinator that traverses the cliff-face, giving you a bird’s eye view before you officially arrive to take your seat. Your 360-degree vantage point affords nothing between you and the horizon but crashing ocean waves facilitating postcard-worthy photos. Dining in this affable outdoor venue in the company of shimmering ocean waves or a so-called dazzling ‘aquatic show’ is by itself an experience of a lifetime.
10) Get amazed by the mystical temples
Bali is a potpourri of gorgeous temples carved out of volcanic stones. These ashcoloured structures that boast of ornate architecture with spectacular backdrops of mountains, lakes or unmissable sunsets, form some of the most picturesque and photographic sights. Apart from the most frequented Tanah Lot Temple and the Uluwatu Temple, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Taman Ayun and Goa Gajah temple are some not be missed temple sites. ■
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TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
GOING BEYOND?
BEYOND DUE LIMITS? features many MDS’ers and is a must for anyone aspiring to toe the line in Morocco. To summarise my physical training,8 months comprised of 2,998km running (60%trail/desert), 50+ gym conditioning sessions, 5 Ultra races, 6 Marathons, 5 other races and 14 heat acclimatization sessions (Sauna squats) in the last 2 weeks before departure… I would not change too much here, maybe just some weekly run specific yoga and also adjusting some run sessions to include speed work & more strategic goals/physiology.
Words + Photos by: Mark Buley
The “Other” preparation:
It was with some trepidation, back in July 2017 that I, along with Gary Turnbull made the decision to enter the Marathon Des Sables, the often credited “World’s Toughest Footrace”. People question the motivation, logic and reasoning. For me it’s about challenges, I had tasted challenges and moved away from the inner circle of my abilities (the comfort zone) and wanted more, to explore the boundaries and limits beyond those boundaries (do limits exist?). For those who are not (yet) familiar, the MDS is a 6 stage ultra-marathon, traversing the Moroccan Sahara, seeing a stage breakdown of 31km/39km/31km/87km/42km/7km. Throw into this mix carrying all your own equipment, food, clothes etc (circa 7-10kg backpack) along with Saharan weather featuring arid dry desert conditions from 35-40 Deg C, Night time conditions c 5 Deg C and of course frequent sandstorms and biting
winds of more than 60kph. Rest comes in the form of sleeping on a windy desert plain on a dusty rug, on a bed of razor sharp rocks, sheltered by a tarpaulin and sticks… And so it began, 8 months of preparation and training kicked off with some research, what could I expect from the so-called “Toughest” (definition: Extreme, not easy to crack, difficult to accomplish) a multi stage “Ultra” (definition: going beyond and beyond due limits)?
The physical Preparation:
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For this element, we are very lucky here in the UAE, the conditions across the length of the UAE easily replicate much of the Saharan terrain, thereby reducing the sting of the Saharan sands. Furthermore, the trail running scene in the UAE is now outstanding, special thanks to the team at Urban Ultra whose races (Sep to Mar, monthly) will lay an awesome MDS foundation for any athlete and of course thanks to Lee Harris and the Desert trail running group, a weekly trail running (& mid week run specific training group) which
This is where the challenge really begins at the MDS and a key factor that will make or break the race for many. Yes, there is of course a significant physical challenge, however this is only one element, the varied factors that can be the difference between a medal and an IV drip are broad and deep, which equipment? What clothing & shoes? What will you eat? How will you manage potentially disastrous calorie deficits? How will you Hydrate? How will you travel there? Insurance/administration? Will you prearrange tent mates (we got this one spot on - See below)? All of these need to be researched (reach out to the MDS community via social media!) and more importantly need to be tried and tested, again & again & again (and then one more time) before you board that flight to Morocco. If you take this approach and start this task early (I recommend no later than August the year before!) then you will find your race much easier, remove much of the stress (& increase your mental capacity, which is the cornerstone of MDS) - in doing so enriching and enjoying this life changing experience to its fullest. However, I would like to offer a word of caution and boil this section down to one simple tip! By all means research, leave no stone unturned and devote as many non running hours to this as you can afford, but beware – the MDS is a personal challenge and all of us are different (that is life’s beauty!) and have different needs, what works for them might not work for you – if it feels right it probably is, use your own personal experiences and research and go with that, this will see you through the smoothest path…
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The race itself:
This year the course was a beautiful one (it can and does change year to year) and played out like this: • Stage 1 = 31km, 50% dunes 50% stony desert flats – 3hr 55min, rank 256/977 – A relatively easy day, easing us into the experience and finished feeling strong and ready for the next stage • Stage 2 = 39km, 80% exposed flat desert plains, 10% dunes, 10% Rocky mountain – 5hr 49min, rank 221/977 – A tough day of soulless desert plains, strong headwinds and topped off with a soft dunes stretch and the infamous Jebel Otfal • Stage 3 = 31km, 33% mountains, 33% dunes, 33% desert flats – 4hr 50min, rank 270/977 – A beautiful day, great climbs (Jebel Otfal again!), vertical descents and awesome ridge runs, quite possibly the single greatest running route of my life to date! • Stage 4 = 87km, 50% Dunes, 40% Desert flats, 10% mountains – 15hr 19min, rank 209/977 – The dreaded “long day” with its 35hr cut off. For me a great experience leaving me wanting more, a taste of something sweet but just a taste, now the goal must be time on feet, to 24hrs, 36hrs, 48hrs and beyond (aka Ultra!) • Stage 5 = 42.2km (just a marathon!), 70% Desert flats, 30% Dunes – 5hr 37min, rank
210/977 – Whilst this featured a relentless 60kph headwind All the way, this day had a carnival atmosphere, grinding out but enjoying the KM with each step bringing us closer to the finish and that medal (and of course a warm hug from Patrick Bauer!) • Stage 6 = 7.7km, 100% dunes – A non timed charity walk day, completing this as a tent team (more on tent 95 below!) was hugely enjoyable and a chance for all of us to nourish and nurture the bonds that we had formed across the week All of this rolled up into a final finish time of just over 34hrs and a ranking of 212/977. I had aimed for “top half” finish so was delighted (but I will get top 200 one day!). Gary Turnbull had also had a stormer and been repaid for all his training by coming in the top half when his initial goal had been simply to finish, Mabrook!!!
The Experience:
This is the heart of MDS, this is why we all do this and this should be your prime focus once you have laid all the groundwork & preparation mentioned above! The bonds formed here are unique and formed for life, they start early on, an awesome (if sometimes relaxed!) training partner in Gary. Some great guest training visitors to Dubai in Dan, Sue, Harry & Evan Of course what really made MDS was the full ensemble of tent 95. An international mix of moderate runners who are now friends for life having shared a unique special experience together (Taka & Gary UAE, Dan & Denise Hong Kong, Sue & James UK, Brian Kuwait). When you live in such compromised close conditions for a week of potential pain and mental tests, you need good people around you and we cracked this 100%, also supported also by the neighbouring team UAE tent (Jeanette, David W, David G, Simon, Jose, Ole & Anthony) and of course the sage wisdom and real jewels of advice from MDS veteran & photographer Ian Corless.
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Last but not least the countless daily messages of support emailed into camp, you all know who you are and you rock! In all an awesome team… A final thank you to Patrick Bauer, AOI, local berbers, the Moroccan Army and the full organization team, this 1,000 strong volunteer army makes the MDS what it is, the ultimate multi stage race experience, great value for a life changing event…
In Summary:
The “toughest footrace on the planet”? What’s the verdict? Well, it wasn’t easy, it had its moments, however (and purely in my opinion) the MDS is an entirely achievable challenge for most/many moderate runners (including beginners given time to prepare). To quantify my comments, you can’t just rock up at MDS and expect to burn a trail and smash all targets, the months of preparation, limitless sacrifices and the support of your nearest & dearest, family (couldn’t have done this without the support of Jeanette & JJ) and friends. If you respect this race and prepare accordingly, YOU WILL succeed, the motto “Fail to prepare, Prepare to fail” never rang more true! Do limits exist? Have I gone beyond “due boundaries”? No way! Limits are set by oneself and are there to be broken and extended at every opportunity. Bring on the next Urban Ultra, the next 100km and the further goals of 100 miles and beyond, I CAN do this and so can you. Should you do MDS? Ask yourself, Why not rather than Why? Commit to prepare with the unnerving never faltering “I can do this” attitude and you are already half way there!
See you on the start line in Morocco one day soon… ■
TRAVEL & ADVENTURE
A RUB’ AL KHALI CROSSING Words + Photos by: Paul Robida
A Rub’ al Khali Crossing, third stage of the Oman trail, where we travel back from Salalah all the way to the Al Hajar Ar gharbi. The wait in Salalah seems to have no end. The call of the desert is now becoming an obsession, and every new night in Salalah is spent dreaming of intrepid adventures. While waiting, not so patiently, for my friends to drive down from Dubai and join me for this next stage of the Oman trail, the Rub al Khali crossing, I have picked-up a copy of Bertram Thomas’ book “Arabia Felix”, describing his expedition across the Empty Quarter back in 1932, the first ever crossing by a European. This fascinating tale, where word after word he lays down the beauty of the land for us to imagine, entices me to go on my own without further delay. Forget reason, forget basic rules of safety, forget common sense, I can’t bare another day waiting for others, I want to go now, no matter the consequences.
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Ironically, Thomas himself had to wait for his party to arrive and lead him through the unknown. Same for Wilfred Thesiger, a few years later on his own voyage. They had to stand still for weeks, unsure their guides would even show up as originally planned. I can imagine how stressful all that time filled with uncertainty must have been. I’m just loosing it after three short days filled with local explorations, while knowing my friends are on their way and that we will take off the day after they arrive, which is tomorrow. But the problem with waiting is this irrational rise of expectations. The more time I have on my hands to think about what I am about to do and see, the more I push back the boundaries of my imagination, taking the risk to be disappointed once finally exposed to reality. Each new dream takes me to taller dunes, a more intricate trail, bigger dangers, all for the journey more and more out of this world. As if I was becoming a victim of my own marketing office, overselling it to myself. On the bright side, it is probably better that way than agonizing in fears and self doubts, fighting the urge to call it off, overwhelmed by the potential dangers you may be exposed to during such a trip. Luckily we manage to leave as scheduled two days later, cars filled with food, water and gas. Salalah now behind us, we begin our journey along the coast line driving towards the Yemeni border. The road on the edge of the cliffs overlooking the ocean below is stunning. Because of the tense geo-political situation in the region with the war raging on
next door in Yemen, we come across several military check points. Each time, young soldiers asking for identifications, curious to know where we are going. Few speak English, keeping the conversation to a minimum. We’re not going to Yemen is pretty much all they care to know. We’re not mentioning our desert plans either. We know that for the reasons I just mentioned, local authorities don’t like foreigners going too far out in the dunes on their own. The real adventure begins when we leave the coast behind and enter the large wadi of the Dohfar, heading north towards the desert. The landscape is lunar. Those tall wadi faces, carved by water over centuries offer a unique perspective on the local aridity. It is always hard to imagine that what you now see today is the result of water flow. Dry, bare, almost lifeless, this world of depravation no longer rimes with water whatsoever, yet, its former presence and influence is undeniable! Two new military checkpoints stop our progression for a short while, but in the end nothing can prevent us from exploring. In the middle of this emptiness I look for signs of Frankincense trees, sitting alone, perched on the edges of some cliffs, waiting to deliver their coveted incense. All I see are goats, roaming free, just like everywhere else in Oman. Overall the drive is smooth, with each new turn revealing new wonders for us to see. At the end of the day, as we leave behind the rocks, we settle for our first night together, camping near the Yemen Border. My first night with company since I left Muscat.
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After a pleasant and safe night we head for the dunes. And it doesn’t take long for them to rise up. Entering the Rub al Khali from its southern edge near the borders of Oman, Yemen and Saudi Arabia offers the most stunning views right from the start. This desert is on a different scale from everything I have seen before. I feel dwarfed by the elevation of this overwhelming sand barrier. Looking up as I begin to climb one of the dunes, I remember some of Thesiger’s words from “Arabian sands”, trying to describe how difficult some of those where for the camels, what a struggle passing from one valley to the next was on their caravan. It seems maddening from where I stand to think one would even contemplate the possibility of such a task. Yet they did it, just like local bedus have done it before them for centuries. Once at the top of that grand dune, after an effort that leaves me breathless, I regroup looking towards the northern horizon, admiring the vast, endless sea of sand, listening to the winds as they play music for their new guests. My emotions are rising up, and I could seat here for hours, contempt with this sense of solitude, protected from the chaotic pace of the modern world I just left behind. Below me, our cars seem minuscule. Like the toy cars left on the beach when we were kids. Unfortunately, today’s drive is long and we must leave behind this oasis of zen and set off again. But the drive is a far easier than anticipated. The track is obvious and flat, going from Sabkha to Sabkha, following ma-
jestic dune ridges on each sides. Our pace is fast, giving us time to stop regularly for new contemplation sessions. What first seemed empty, is full of life. Tourists early on, who came from Salalah, jammed in Land Cruisers chartered by local tour operators, admiring the same dunes we did, then, further on, local pick-ups rushing back to some isolated farm at the end of fainted tracks. Once in a while a larger commercial truck blasting sand on our windshields as we cross paths. Again and again you feel the urge to divert from the track, enter the dunes and get lost for the ultimate desert drive. Like a sailor living the harbour, curious to see what lays on the other end of infinity. An untouched oasis, a lost city, some virgin paradise, what will we find if we follow the winds through this unknown? The answer is less romantic, on our left is the Saudi Arabia’s border and crossing it without a formal invitation would probably be a terrible idea! An administrative problem the herd of camels roaming in a tight pack in the distance, doesn’t seem to care much about... One cannot understand the fascination some have for deserts until he or she has spent a night under its darken skies. Nothing transports you to fulfillment like the silence of a night in the sand, as you and nature meeting for a date to remember. This isn’t Dubai, no planes above our heads, no engine bashing in the distance, no other group disrupting our peace in the vicinity. As a matter of facts, what could have been a night of laughter among old friends, spent in silence, observing beauty. We didn’t even make a fire to keep the natural light intact (and avoid attracting spiders). We couldn’t even find anything to say more interesting than the spectacle offered to us. This night in the desert, just as the ones to follow were a bliss. The following days of our journey remain trouble free. No mechanical problems, no wrong turns into Saudi Arabia, despite being extremely close to the border at some points,
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a necessary diversion for refill, where we meet with a very large military convoy, and most of all, dunes and dunes and dunes for miles on end. At times the track becomes smaller, crossed by other faint tire marks, here and there short dunes sections to cross over a broad new sabkha... Then, the dunes become smaller, the sand color, reddish when we started, turns pale yellow. More commercial trucks begin crowding our path. Signs we are getting close to the oil fields of Al Khuwayr. Civilization is starting to point its ugly head again, bringing an end to our journey. I can’t help wanting to turn around. It went by too fast. I feel hungry for more. Somehow, I wish we had done this by fair means, with camels, like in the old days. Taking the time to fully savor the world we were in instead of driving by. Because, despite all the hardships that come with a life in such an environment, I can’t help thinking this is heaven for whom knows how to observe it, for whom dares venture out of his or her comfort zone. And, just like the rest of the trail I have been on so far has shown me, Oman is a truly a magical traveling experience for whom goes beyond the paved itineraries. In the next and final stage of the Oman trail, I will return to the Al Hajar mountains. This time exploring Al Hajar Al Gharbi. A place filed with a rich history and more stunning sceneries. To find out more about the Oman trail, go to Lostandcurious.com for all the waypoints and necessary itinerary information. ■
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Now for the biggest familyoriented non-profit adventure and off-roading community in the United Arab Emirates: Our story started with humble beginnings. In 2009, when seven friends decided to establish an off-roading community club, little did they know that their passion, energy, and good vibes would attract hundreds and thousands of people passionate about the desert. Throughout the past nine years, our club was transformed from a small group to a 3000-member strong family from all corners of the world, sharing and bonding over memories of thrilling and exciting adventures. Our community club was founded to promote four-wheel driving, dune bashing and to explore the gorgeous desert, mountains, wadis, and landscapes of the UAE. Our ever so welcoming and supporting Marshals would teach newcomers the off-roading techniques and skills required to master the craft of dune bashing. With over 30 Marshals you will never feel lost and unsettled. Our Marshals are some of the most enthusiastic and best coaches around. They serve as the club’s backbone and will ensure that you will banish your off-roading fear and ensure that you have the time of your life. We can’t thank our Marshals enough for the effort they put in; they are indeed the best.
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Our drives are segmented into different levels ranging from Rookie to Senior levels depending on skill requirement and experience. While fun and good times are guaranteed, we always observe strong safety measures to ensure that everyone returns home safely. The success of our community club arises from the memorable evenings we spend together. Our adventures are not just about the drive, as after each trip we sit down together to socialize and bond over the campfire. In this instance, new faces become friends, and friends become family as everyone spends the night laughing and relishing the good
vibes. This is what makes us unique and drives people to join our outings regularly. The scope of our adventures has no limits, and we provide our members with a wide variety of trips to escape the city life during the weekends. Our members are spoiled for choice and can enjoy tours in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Sharjah on a weekly basis. Our trips cover the morning, afternoon, and night times to provide our members with flexibility in joining our trips. Our adventures are not reduced to the desert as we organize expeditions to explore the mountains as well as different beaches across the UAE and even Sultanate of Oman!
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Being a member of UAEOFFROADERS is very rewarding. You will meet new people from different backgrounds, nationalities, cultures, and religions that you might not get the opportunity to meet in your everyday life. Everyone is warmly welcomed to join the family without prejudice to any off-roading car as all types of 4-wheel drive vehicles are welcome. Great fun is guaranteed, and you will take home beautiful memories of the day. New members who join UAEOFFROADERS are surprised to find out that some of the best times are spent not in the confines of their car, but after all the driving is done and we are relaxing around the campfire sharing experiences and jokes and reflecting on the day. We, at UAEOFFROADERS, are committed to providing you with hands-on technical and instructional training and information on how to drive safely in the sand, raising your confidence levels and the confidence in your vehicle’s capabilities. We are looking forward to having everyone on-board in an adrenalin pumping and thrilling adventure.
The UAEOFFROADERS Marketing Team
The driving force behind evolving our community club. The Marketing Team is dedicated to providing our members with the best experience by working behind the scenes in running the club’s website and social media platforms, planning major themed events, designing and developing club merchandise, and negotiating partnerships with local offroading garages and supplies to provide our members with exclusive offers.
Formed by media passionate members, each specialized in a domain, the Marketing Team works around the hour developing content for the club’s social media accounts. The Marketing Team pledges their time during the trips to capture the most daring and most amazing moments for the club members to cherish. The team is continually revamping and refining the club’s website to ensure a hassle-free and user-friendly experience for members to log in and register for trips. The site also serves as our community portal were members can interact with each other, or even sell and exchange their custom parts and tools online. Trip and club announcements are circulated in all social media platforms to make it easy for members to be informed of the latest news and to become aware of all new trips posted. With a wellestablished and an influential social media reach, the Marketing Team has managed to negotiate tempting offers & deals with various off-roading garages and supplies exclusively for the club’s members to enjoy. Besides, the team designs and manufactures the club’s high-quality merchandise and monthly member gifts such as flags, key-chain holders, and stickers. Furthermore, the team works tirelessly in planning and executing major events and themed trips. Such trips add an exceptional and distinctive flavour to the drives. Themed trips such as the Mega Drive, Traditional Dress Drive, Traditional Food Drive, Halloween Drive, Water Festival, and Compass Challenge incorporate a unique prized competition, sponsored by our local partners, to offer
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the members and their families a delightful and distinctive twist to their weekend. On top of that, the team organizes social gatherings around different restaurants and cafes in the UAE to engage more with the members and facilitate networking with new joiners.
Custom Show Emirates 2018
In its 3rd partaking, the UAEOFFROADERS family had a strong and palpable presence during the Custom Show Emirates 2018, participating with over 40 cars during the event. With the biggest stand in the most significant car competition event in the UAE, our members had a valuable opportunity to showcase their customized vehicles. Hours of hard work in fine-tuning and improving the off-roading capabilities of their cars, the club members have been rewarded with the club winning a total of 11 prizes during the competition. Show visitors were able to experience our hospitality when they visited our stand. Guests were welcomed to our Majlis and were presented with tea and sweats as they relished the chance to meet and greet with club founders, marshals, and members. Visitors were also treated to presentations on off-roading equipment, safety equipment, as well as off-roading tips and tricks. It was indeed a great occasion as the club publicly showcased its slogan. We honestly were one team and one family as we concluded the exhibition on a high note. We are looking forward to next year’s edition to keep raising the bar, providing our members with the best experience, and entertaining our visitors with many surprises! ■
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THE
OFF-ROADERS corner
Fadi Alshami Nationality: Jordanian Occupation: General Manager Vehical: Ford F-150 2015 model
Tell us the background story of the car…
I have always wanted a truck from the day I started driving, when I moved to Dubai it was time to have it...I’ve done good homework on all trucks in the 1500 category and found the F150 to have the most advantages. Then I went for a test drive and simply the turbo spool had me sold!
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What modifications have been made, performance and cosmetic wise?
After my first few offroad sessions I figured that it was time to upgrade so I did some more homework in the market and found Green Autoworks as the guys that know it all. They did a 4” performance Lift kit with 18” wheels and 35” tires, High clearance offroad fiberglass with custom bumpers, air intake and ECU tuning, upgraded my gears and gave back the truck in monster condition.
Do you have something that you consider to be a ‘special feature’ of the car?
It can take me anywhere comfortably on and off road.
What were your other options before you bought this car?
Chevy Silverado, Dodge Ram, Jeep JK and the F150.
How often do you use your car, and what activities do you take part in?
I use it as a daily driver and I go to most of the offroad events especially since I am part of the most active offroad club UAE Offroaders.
Are you planning any future modifications? A turbo upgrade is my next mod!
What 4x4 do you dream of owning? I was thinking of the Raptor but after modifying my F150 I can’t ask for a another car. ■
Greg Berniere Nationality: French Occupation: Supply Chain Manager Vehicle: Wrangler JKU
Tell us the background story of the car…
Bought it during the summer 2016 stock and started off-roading by summer’s end. When I saw it first, I knew that was the car I wanted (also, I was only looking at wranglers unlimited).
What modifications have been made, performance and cosmetic wise? • 2.5” Lift Kit + Titan Shocks • Bump Stop • Method Rims
• Cooper Tires AT3 285/70/17R • Off-road Lights • Front Differential Reinforcement • Borla Twin Exhaust • Rubicon Front and Back Bumpers • 8mm Skid plate • Injen Air Intake
Do you have something that you consider to be a ‘special feature’ of the car?
Its overall capacity to do anything I want and when I want it – love its new look
What were your other options before you bought this car?
None, I went from a car that could barely go off-road to one that is made for it
How often do you use your car, and what activities do you take part in? Every day, everything, everywhere
Are you planning any future modifications?
The answer is always no, but then you find yourself in a garage and you put your car in for more mods – and by extension, more fun..
What 4x4 do you dream of owning? I already do own it – tried other cars after I got mine (such as FJ or Partol safari), and this one matches the most my personality and the way I like to drive. ■
Want your 4X4 to be the next feature? Just send us an email at editor@outdooruae.com with the subject “Off-Roaders Corner” and you and your car might just be the next one on this page!
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HABITUALLY HEALTHY
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH DATES? Words by: Robert Jahn
Dates are an amazing food. The amount of energy a small little date has is astounding. They are packed full of sugar (and I mean the good kinds), fiber, iron, and vitamins.
In the U.A.E. there has been a long history of people enjoying dates even long before the skyscrapers and mega projects came around. A major benefit is just how durable dates are. People have found packets of them that are decades old, still perfectly fine to eat.
RECIPE Energy ball
• 100gm dates without seed • 20gm sesame seeds • 140gm nuts (almonds, walnuts, macadamia, whatever you want to use works) • 1gm salt Optional • Coconut grated • Other dried fruits such as cherry’s / apricots / plums • Cinnamon • Cocoa powder Add all items in the food processor, start pulsing until is all becomes sticky and dough like. Wet your hands slightly and roll into balls, keep packed airtight.
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This is due to the low moisture content in them, as well as the high sugar content that acts as a preservative. Don’t think that you can only eat them as is. At the Cycle Bistro we use them for all sorts of awesome recipes, one of our most famous ones is the energy ball, they are small little delicious things, that last even in the most demanding situations, don’t need cooling, and taste awesome. ■
Located at The Cycle Bistro, Dubai Motor City Call: 04 425 3000 Website: www.thecyclebistro.com info@thecyclebistro.com facebook.com/thecyclebistro instagram.com/thecyclebistro
The Cycle Bistro GPS location: Latitude: N 25° 02.792 Longitude: E 055° 14.384
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PRODUCTS A ROUND-UP OF QUALITY PRODUCTS AVAILABLE RIGHT HERE IN THE UAE
Women’s Super BoneheadTM II Sleeveless Dress
Women’s DoradoTM Slip-Ons
Available at Columbia stores across the region
Combining modern materials, comfort, and design, the Delray Slip-Ons give you a perfect boating shoe for on and off the boat.
Features • Hand pockets Fabrics • 100% Cotton
Available at Columbia stores across the region
Upper • Combination open mesh and synthetic upper • Blood ‘n GutsTM water and stain resistant treatment Midsole • TECHLITETM midsole, superior cushion, high energy return • Ultimate in comfort and shock absorbency Outsole • Omni-GRIPTM non-marking wet grip outsole with razor piping
Men’s Big KatunaTM II Short
DORADOTM
Available at Columbia stores across the region
Available at Columbia stores across the region
Features • Omni-SHADETM UPF 50 sun protection • Omni-SHIELDTM advanced repellency Reinforced pliers pocket • Sunglass cleaning patch
Proprietary outsole design, quick drying materials, speed lacing, super plush insole, all combine to make a superior product for performance offshore fishing.
Fabrics • 100% polyester
Upper Blood ‘n GutsTM water and stain resistant treatment Combination open mesh and synthetic upper Midsole • TECHLITETM midsole, superior cushion, high energy return • Ultimate in comfort and shock absorbency Outsole • Omni-GRIPTM non-marking wet grip outsole with razor piping
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PRODUCTS Feetures – Elite Light Cushion No Show Tab Socks 69 AED
Available at Adventure HQ TSC and Sport In Life’s showroom Elite is Feeture’s most technically advanced sock. Its lightweight Sock-Lock system creates an excellent fit, so it doesn't even feel like you're wearing socks. Features • High-density cushioning for superior protection and comfort • iWick fibers wick moisture away from the skin • Anatomical design offers a better fit and reduces the risk of blisters • Seamless toe eliminates irritating seam • Lifetime warranty • America’s #1 running sock
Waboba – Surf Water Bouncing Ball 40 AED
Available at Adventure HQ, Virgin Megastore, Sport In Life’s showroom and Souq.com Perfect for kids, beginners, and family vacations, the Waboba Surf has a very squishy/stress-ball-like core, which makes it easy to bounce on water. • Fun for anyone! • Bounces on water • Best for the beach, rivers and pools. • Ages 6+
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Saris Bones 3 - Bike Trunk Car Rack 799 AED
Available at Go Sport, Adventure HQ, Yas Cycles, Cycle Hub and Sport In Life’s showroom • Trunk mounted rack carries up to three bikes, up to 16kg each • Arc-based design fits over most spoilers and separates bikes on different levels • Injection-molded arms and legs are the strongest on the market • Rubberized feet protect vehicle and coated straps protect bike
BBB – Select PH Cycling Sunglasses – Road+MTB 599 AED
Available at Adventure HQ, Yas Cycles, Sport In Life’s showroom • The replaceable lens and temple tips allow you to create the style you like • Polycarbonate photochromic lenses. These lenses have a light transmission of 85-17%. The brighter the light, the darker the lens automatically becomes • Full round lens shape gives optimal protection against sunlight, dust and wind • 100% UV protection • High-end Grilamid frame with adjustable rubber nose piece • Includes carrying case
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PRODUCTS Bestway Lay-Z-Spa Miami Inflatable Hot Tub (180.3 x 66cm)
Portacool PACCYC06 Cyclone 1000 Portable Evaporative Cooler (Black)
Available at Al-Futtaim Ace stores and online at www.aceuae.com
Available at Al-Futtaim Ace stores and online at www.aceuae.com
No need to pay a premium for health club memberships when you can enjoy a spa say, every day from the comfort of your own backyard! The Miami Lay-Z-Spa Inflatable Hot Tub value for money compared to hard shell fixed hot tubs. The Miami Lay-Z-Spa can hold 800 liters of water and will easily accommodate a couple, or up to 4 people inside. Let the soothing message jet system gently ease away your stress and unwind in 40°C water. It is easy to set-up in around 10 minutes.
Breathe a sigh of relief from the scorching heat with the Portacool PACCYC06 Cyclone 1000 Portable Evaporative Cooler.With air delivery of 1000 CFM (cubic feet per minute) and 1700 metre cube per hour, it provides an instant cooling solution. The cooling method of Portacool PACCYC06 Cyclone 1000 Portable Evaporative Cooler is based on the evaporation of water.
HERO
FUSION
Available at all major retail outlets in UAE
Available at all major retail outlets in UAE
Meet HERO. With a touch screen and durable waterproof design, it’s easy to score great shots of any adventure. Or use it to capture everyday things from creative new perspectives. Your moments move right to the GoPro app and transform into amazing videos, automatically. Wherever life takes you, capture and share your story with HERO.
Fusion captures spherical video and photos, recording everything so you can find the best shots later. Play it back in VR or use OverCapture to create traditional videos and photos you can share right on your phone. With ultra-smooth stabilization and 5.2K video, Fusion is like having a professional film crew with you wherever you go.
2,499 AED
849 AED
1,999 AED
• Dual water fill options includes manual fill and hose connection • Adjustable louvers to control the direction of air flow • Water control valve and water level gauge for optimum water usage • Water reservoir capacity 30L
2,749 AED
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PRODUCTS Tacx Neo Smart Interactive Bike Trainer
STX FREERIDE Inflatable SUP
Available at GO Sport MOE and TDM
Available at GO Sport MOE,TDM and YAS in June
• 2200 W power, <1% accuracy • 750 x 575 mm footprint • Folding wings serve as handles • No physical transitions to decrease noise
• 10'6" x 32"x 6'" • (260L) Included: Paddle, Repair kit, Pump, Backpack
Naish 2017 Orbit 152
Naish Alaia 5’9”
Available at www.kitesurfsup.com
Available at www.kitesurfsup.com
For Inquiries, please email or call: enquiries@kitesurf.com +971 (0)55 935 2735 / +971 (0) 55 190 4895
For Inquiries, please email or call: enquiries@kitesurf.com +971 (0)55 935 2735 / +971 (0) 55 190 4895
Lightwind Freeride The Orbit is designed with a large surface area and low rocker for early planing and freeride fun in lightwind conditions. Its surface area, flat rocker, double concave bottom shaping and responsive flex provide easy planing, a smooth ride, superior edging and soft landings. The newly refined outline makes the Orbit more playful and the ride more forgiving, even when small chop starts to develop. It also features an angled heel-side center fin for strong upwind performance while still maintaining a playful ride. • NEW Low Flex F20 = Ideal for slow-tomedium speed riding • Light Wind Rocker = Low drag early planing + balanced riding • 4 Angle Center Fin = Upwind performance with minimal drag • Framework Deck = Lightweight + adds rigidity • NEW FTC 2.0 (Flex Torsion Control) = Optimized stiffness in both the axial & torsional axis + superior control
ALAIA Lightwind Freeride Size: 5’9” True to its roots, the Alaia takes it back to the early days when surfing first began in Hawaii. It is shaped out of a solid dual-wood core with a surf design that has been refined for a seamless transition into modern kiteboarding. It has amazing upwind performance and is incredibly fun and playful. Its performance shines in light-to-marginal winds.
6,610 AED
2,436 AED | Was: 2,578 AED
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3,115 AED
1,110 AED | Was: 1,750 AED
Features • Dual Wood Core Capped in Fiberglass • Channel Concave & Bevel Bottom
The Human Engine What Engine Health And Fitness can offer to stay fit in summer? Engine Health and Fitness is built over 3 floors and is a stateof-the-art, 30,000sq ft health and fitness club on Beach Road, Jumeirah 1. Designed with keeping the discerning member in mind, our aim has been to put the very best that exists in the world of health and fitness under one roof. Additionally, ENGINE aims to provide exemplary service by exceeding member’s expectations through our specialized group exercise classes and personal training facilities. We spoke to the General Manager of ENGINE Simon John Brown.
Simon, can you tell us in a few words how ENGINE differentiates from other gyms? Engine is a really cool looking space with loads of naturally daylight, it has a different feel to any other gym in the city! One floor is dedicated to strength and conditioning, the next floor is dedicated to cardio and lastly the top floor has a unique freestyle concept and two studios dedicated to world class group exercise classes. The club sits in the
Simon John Brown, Club General Manager
heart of Downtown Dubai. Since the opening of La Mer and city walk it’s very convenient for anyone who lives in that area.
What would you recommend our readers who are usually active outdoors during the winter for the hot summer months? I love the saying “out lift a runner” “out run a lifter” The summer heat means that our normal exercise routine has to change. It’s a great time to work on your weaknesses. If you do little in the way of strength and conditioning for example it’s a good time to chat with a coach and work on that. I think its important to find something you will enjoy like maybe a cool group exercise class with a coach that challenges you is awesome. Can you explain us more about Queenax? The Queenax is basically a RIG with multiple anchor points that lets me design a cool functional space for different types of Cross training, High Intensity interval training classes. Engine
was the first club in Dubai to integrate this into our facility and it is very popular with members.
Do you run any trail sessions or what would be the best way to experience ENGINE? We currently offer anyone who would like to experience Engine HF a complimentary 1 week trail. Simply visit our website www.ehf.ae or simply call us 04-3819999 ■ I look forward to welcoming you to the club very soon!
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BEACH BOOT CAMP - NOT JUST FOR SURF PRO’S Dubai’s not know for being a surf capital but it’s getting a reputation for being one of the most adventure-filled in the Middle East. With the few waves we get a month, they are packed sunrise to sunset with surfers and when there’s none in Dubai, organised surfari’s to Oman and other regions in the U.A.E. are a just weekend away. As surfers we typically want to push our limits right? This ultimately means paddling out into bigger surf. One of the best surfing training workouts you can do to improve your stamina and surf strength is underwater training to build lung capacity and confidence. Dubai’s favourite surf spot, Surf House Dubai has just the training schedule in mind, with an early morning beach based boot camp that incorporates breath holds, arm strengthening exercises and also reaction training. It’s not just for the surf pro’s either, welcoming all levels and abilities, you are shown how to tackle each obstacle and with the majority of the workout being partner based, it’s got an element of competition too.Underwater surfing training is the perfect training to complement your usual surfing fitness, focusing also on hand eye co-ordination and power / balance exercises. The underwater breath holds are the favourite feature for most, consisting of kettle bell training along the sea floor, starting off in a rather shallow spot so you can easily resurface to 52
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get oxygen and taking it in turns with your partner, working your way down to the buoy line. Upon resurfacing, the key is to take a full breath of air to build your ability to run for longer underwater. Over time thisboot camp helps build both lung capacity and endurance – which ultimately will help with your maximum breath holding ability. Functional surf training needs to encompass the full body and challenge your body specifically for surfing, which this bi-weekly workout at Surf House Dubai with trainer Carlo accomplishes. With a passion for the ocean, it was the perfect place to launch OluKai in the Middle East. Taking a 20 strong group of fitness and adventure enthusiasts called #TEAMZSI to sunset beach,
the boot camp tested the surfers and nonsurfers amongst the group, who all felt an incredible benefit from the varied beach and water based exercises. What started as a different approach to a footwear company,OluKai aims to create footwear that combines durability for the waterman and ocean lifestyle. It’s a brand that has strong values and roots with style, comfort and craftsmanship. OluKaiproduces products they believe in as a community. Products that boast quality of product and material, craftsmanship in construction and are synonymous with those who find quality in life by the choices they make everyday. The perfect fit for #TEAMZSI members, OluKai is renowned the World over and recognised by it’s distinctive Hawaiian fish hook. Now available in Surf House Dubai itself as well as JBR based Dive’N’Surf and Adventure HQ and Le Shop at La Mer. ■
OUR EXPERTS
SUMMER CAMPING IN THE UAE AND OMAN
Elevated campsite by Dan Watanabe
Words + Photos by: Marina Bruce
As many expats head home to cooler climes for the summer, there are many more who stay in the UAE throughout the hottest months. Many of these will still venture into the desert with their 4x4s, heading home after a moonlit BBQ; a handful of others will attempt to camp overnight in the sandpit. I consider an August camping trip as a rite of passage – you cannot truly empathise with the Emiratis of the old days unless you experience first-hand the weather conditions they had to endure. One doesn’t want to be too authentic though – I don’t have access to camels, so I have to use my 4x4, and since I am using it I might as well load up my fridge and shower! Always choose an elevated campsite – a light breeze will help keep you cool. If there are plants around then chances are there will be flies and possibly even mosquitoes, so take some cheap firewood and set it alight – you certainly will not need it for warmth, but the smoke will keep the beasties away. The sand will be hot, hot, hot, so resist any urge to pitch your tent as soon as you arrive at sundown, instead wait until two or Salalah summertime camping
three hours after sunset. The groundsheet of your tent will hold the warmth in the sand, so you will be cooler overnight if you set up your camp once it is dark. Give consideration to where you park your car too – position it north-south and place your tent or bed to the west and you will be glad of the extra hour of shade in the morning. Do you even need a tent? Probably not, but it is best not to sleep direct on the sand due to residual heat radiating from it and the possibility of a curious scorpion or camel spider! Camp beds are a popular choice and take up very little room in your car, but in the summer you can leave the warm sleeping bag behind. If you feel the need to have a blanket over you choose a very thin one! My personal choice for summertime desert sleeping is my roof rack; the 1.8 metres of extra elevation ensure a cooling breeze flows over me, making sleep possible even in August. As a bonus, if I wake up during the night I get an unobstructed view of the stars. My aluminium Rhino Rack might be a bit hard on the back, so I use a self-inflating mattress for comfort and take a couple of plastic boxes to place on each side to make sure I don’t fall off during the night!
As with all summertime desert activities it is important to be prepared; to let someone know where you are going and what time you will return; to carry extra water and snacks; and to make sure your mobile phone is fully charged. However you don’t necessarily have to sweat it out in the desert during the peak of the summer – there are other places in the UAE and Oman which are ideal for summertime camping If you want to camp for comfort and not for challenge, you could do a lot worse than head for the hills, or should I say mountains. August overnight temperatures in Jebel Akhdar and Jebel Shams, Oman are typically around 15C, a real treat for us desert dwellers! Masairah Island, some 7 hours drive from Al Ain is also a popular camping spot during the summer, due to it getting the tail end of the Salalah Khareef winds. You will need very good tentpegs though as it is blustery all day every day, which explains why this is a must-go place for kitesurfers at this time of year. Salalah is the ultimate summer destination for Gulf residents although it is a bit of trek to get there. Make sure you have checked your tent is waterproof as Dhofar region enjoys a rainy season between the start of July and mid-September. OutdoorUAE magazine has regular articles about Salalah which you can find in our website archives; last year’s July/August edition featured “Seaside Saunter to Salalah” which gives details of the coastal journey from Muscat. ■
Social Media Facebook: /DesertDivaUAE Twitter: @15shadesofsand Insta: thedesertdivame Blog: thedesertdiva.com
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OUR EXPERTS
A VERSATILE JIG Words by: Kit Belen Photos by: Kit Belen and Rasmus Ovesen
There are jigs made for quite a few things, in this article, I’m going to talk about how you can make the most out of two very effective jigs. There are a lot of lures and jigs that everyone swears by and this varies quite a bit from person to person. For me, there have been only a handful of lures I trust since they have been consistent producers over the years. First and foremost, when I choose a lure, it has to do at least two jobs; this is because you have to be ready for a lot of situations where the lure you have to make a quick cast and know it’s going to get hit. A swivel or a splitring infront gives it better action when you cast this jig
A large inline single hook ensures greater holding power for strong fish like tuna
Unfortunately, a lot of lures and jigs these days are made to do one specific job and it’s hard to find a handful you could call a jack of all trades, as more and more techniques go public, lures and jigs become more technical and become less and less versatile.
Slim Jim
On top of my list is the Storm Super Gomoku Slim. This jig, although marketed as a vertical jig, it is probably one of the most effective casting jigs in the market. With some slight modifications, the Storm Super Gomoku Slim can be made to swim effectively, - it’s a fish magnet. Depending on the size you choose to use this very versatile jig has a good wobble and quite an enticing action when retrieved fast just under the surface. Let it sink a little bit and work it back with some twitches and you get a different action. Because its weight it at the back, it sinks faster than other jigs and you can cover multiple depths with even thick diameter lines. It
has quite an extensive colour range so it can be used in different water conditions, even in very muddy water. Although your initial thought would be to attach a treble hook at the back and it would be already quite effective, using an inline single hook such as the VMC 7266 makes it hold fish even better. With fish like tuna, I normally use an inline hook more than I do a treble because they simply hold the fish better – the wires are also thin which makes it hard for the fish to bend, as opposed to the individual thinner wire of the treble, the thicker wire gives me extra security for stronger fish. Since I mostly use it to chase boiling tuna in the east coast, I stick with the 40g and 60g models as they are about the same size as the baitfish the tuna are feeding on. I am not fussy with colours and to tell you honestly, I’ve caught a lot on all the colors, it just depends on the water clarity, when the water is clear, try and stick to natural looking colors, while in murky water, I tend to gravitate towards the UV colours.
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I put some craft fur on the tail hook to pronounce the swimming action a bit more
The smaller sizes of up to 30g are quite at home in the gulf, especially in the summer when the baitfish size is exactly the same size as the 20g or 30g models. A fast tempo retrieve brings out a fish catching wobble that fish can’t seem to ignore. This is the best choice for run and gun fishing when hopping from one boil to another. I detach the single assist hook and attach a small swivel in its place – this will be my tie in point, if you prefer to put a solid ring, just take the assist hook off the ring and it works well that way. At the business end, I put a VMC 7266 this is an inline single hook designed to replace trebles in lures, it has better holding power than a treble hook the wire used to make them is thicker than an equally sized treble hook – this means it wont bend on a strong fish like tuna. A trick I use is to tie some flash material or craft fur – this makes the swimming motion of the jig more prominent. Because of its slim profile, the Super Gomoku Slim casts like a bullet and is especially useful in windy situations where you need to land your cast precisely in or around the boil – it works better than plugs because it doesn’t have a lip to slow it down on the cast. The biggest advantage of this
The Super Gomoku Slim comes in a variety of weights that cover both shallow and deep water
jig is the fact that you can cast it to a boil that is almost dying, let it sink deep and you can bring it up with long sweeps of the rod and get strikes that way. You can’t do that method effectively with most casting jigs and plugs. This jig is equally at home on shore as well. With the same casting properties mentioned above, this jig casts a country mile from shore – perfect when extreme distances is needed to reach feeding fish – which more often than not is the case when fishing off the rocks.
With weights as low as 15g, this jig has one of the most extensive size ranges in the market, it’s also slim so it mimics a slim baitfish that most predators are tuned in. The only thing I do differently when casting from shore is to put a short wire trace ahead of the jig since it does attract a lot of attention from kingfish and barracuda. Fished off the bottom and fished slowly it produces golden and diamond trevally, mid water it catches spotted trevallies kingfish and barracuda with surprising consistency. This jig is an all season all year long lure that can produce even with varying temperature changes and barometric pressure, in short, it is one of those things you don’t want to run out of and should be an essential item in everyone’s tackle box. Over the years, I have been trimming the fat off my boxes – and I noticed that this particular jig can be found in each of the box I carried in different weights/sizes. Together with the Koika, these two are the ones that get on different rods and are always ready to go. Pick a few up according to your fishing and give it a shot; I could almost see you getting surprised. ■
Till next tide change,
Kit Our fishing pro who shares his experiences and expertise with OutdoorUAE through his regular column. thefishingkit@gmail.com
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TIPS & TRICKS
it is a good opportunity to hit the gym and work on recruiting all those muscle fibers and strengthening them (under the a/c). Also, because swimming is such a technical sport and where 80% of the athletes struggle with if they didn’t learn as kids, this is also a good time to hit the indoor pools and work on your technique. But not just on the swim you work on form as both the run and cycling have a technical side to it which can easily be addressed on the treadmill and in the trainer.
Words + Photos by: Pedro Gomes
If you live in the UAE and are an active person, you have probably cross paths with those “nutcases” that do three sports: swimming, cycling and running, because one sport wasn’t enough. Triathlons are growing popularity in the region and as we face the summer you probably wonder if you could start preparing for the race season already, which usually kicks off in September when it starts to mellow down. Here are a few tricks and tips to invest in the sport during the summer so you can collect dividends of it during the winter:
1. Find a coach: this is always my number 1 advice to newbies in the sport, doesn’t matter where you are based. There are several certified coaches in the UAE (including myself) and because certainty the weather won’t allow you to properly bike and run
3. Take the most out of the group sessions: it seems like suffering in group (mostly), there are ways around it to still come out on top during the winter time. A coach will not only help you plan your days and weeks as it will guide you through the ‘invisible’ work which ultimately is filled with cross training sessions.
2. Focus on technique and strength: let's be honest, this is not the time to be out there for 6 hours on the bike or doing long runs with boiling temperatures. However,
makes it more bearable since you are distracted with the human interaction. It will still be hot but makes it much easier to tolerate the temperature when you see that everyone is on the same boat. If you live in Dubai, Dubai Masters Swimming Club offers pay as you go swimming sessions every day of the week (am and pm) at the brand new Blue Wave pool in Al Quoz 3. Also in Dubai, TriDubai frequently organizes brick sessions at the open nights at the Dubai Autodrome which usually are between 60
and 90 minutes. If you leave in Abu Dhabi, Triathlon Abu Dhabi is re-born and organizes weekly brick sessions at YAS Marina Circuit and weekly Friday group rides at Al Wathba. Easily find them on Facebook for more and updated information about training sessions.
4. Early mornings are better than late afternoons: it seems the desert
gives us more of a break early morning versus late at night. It would seem natural to assume that as the sun rises in the morning, the temperature begins increasing rapidly. However, when the sun first rises it doesn't get warmer right away but feels colder. The coldest time of day is sometime just after dawn so if you get to bed early and wake up early, you will get a much better quality workout.
5. Focus on drinking a lot more but not just water: it’s a common mistake to
try and over drink to compensate for the extreme losses we suffer during summer training in the UAE. In fact, your training starts to go downhill as soon as your dehydration is so high that your body can’t perform properly and in the region that happens so fast that you will feel like you can’t exercise at all. Going into the workout properly hydrated helps us delay that feel of exhaustion but drinking just water won’t help you on that aspect. Reality is you loose water mostly through sweat, which also contains electrolytes (sodium, calcium, magnesium, etc) and if you don’t pair the drinking with a supplement of these electrolytes, your body is not able to store and keep the water you are drinking and will in fact flush it out to try and keep the concentration of these minerals stable, making dehydration even worse. There are a few brands that you can’t get
in the UAE that produce electrolytes drinks (Aqualyte and Nuun, to name two) and you can buy them at local pharmacies. It’s always a good rule of thumb to drink a minimum of 2L of it during the summer days.
6. Use A/C at a moderate temperature: it’s also a common mistake to pump
up the air conditioned in the car on in the house to as cold as it can get. However, keep in mind that your body is able to tolerate the heat better if it’s acclimatized to it (which usually takes about 10-12 days if you are coming from abroad) and providing the body with an external source of cooling delays/prevents proper acclimatization. So keeping the A/C at a moderate tempera-
ture, will allow your body to better adapt its own cooling system when he’s faced with extreme heat.
7. Avoid ice cold (or ice in) drinks: I
know this seems unreasonable and stupid. The concept is your body is able to drink a lot more if the fluid is a moderate temperature, as the ice cold fluids ‘kill’ the thirst faster but doesn’t ‘kill’ the dehydration. It’s likely that if you are thirsty longer, you drink more and hence working on dehydration a little more. Do use the ice to cool off your skin and just pour it inside your jersey, hat or hands. ■
Have a great summer!
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Words by: Nicky Holland (Personal Trainer)
Last month's edition highlighted ‘The Top 5 Common Mistakes’ which we make and we don’t even realise we are doing them. A quick recap included food shopping when hungry, intermittent fasting then eating one big meal at night, hydration by not drinking enough water, the all or nothing approach by being really good or really bad and results by expecting a change to soon. This is where people slip up but we can make little adjustments to ensure that we stay focused and on track. Let’s imagine, we have get all the above right. When it comes to exercise, there are also ‘Common Mistakes’ we make. Below are ‘The Top 3 Common Mistakes for exercise’
1. Fail to prepare, prepare to fail.
How many of us have turned up at the gym and don't know what we are going to do. We don’t have a plan of our workout ahead. Instead, we are just going to do what we feel like or use whatever machines are free. This is a big no no. You need to have a training programme, a plan or a strategy, otherwise you are wasting your time being there and it will take you longer to get to where you want to be.
will change my training to be more fun and relaxed. You should do the same. If you can exercise outdoors, do it. Take a road trip to go hiking or kayaking. Hire a bike and cycle instead of driving everywhere. Go swimming in the sea or in the swimming pool. There are many ways which we can make exercise fun. Tag me in your activities or adventures on Instagram @ nicky__fitness and I will choose a photo to use in our next edition. Use the Holy month to review your goals, think about where you are now, where you want to be and how far you have come. From all at Nicky Fitness and Outdoor UAE, we wish you Ramadan Kareem and Eid Mubarak. ■
2. Changing things up too much. I’ll
admit it, I often get frustrated because I am not seeing the results I want. But we need to have discipline and trust the process. Doing sets of 10 reps, then 20 reps then 6 reps works the muscle in a different way so make sure the training you do (eg the weight, sets and reps) are specific to your goal and your 4-6 week plan. Review every few weeks not every session, then you can make more accurate changes.
3. Not giving ourselves enough rest. Our body needs 6-8 hours of sleep
every night. If we are training as well as working long days, we must give our body rest days to grow and recover. Training 7 days a week can also have a detrimental affect. Our muscles and joints need a break from too much exercise so be mindful of the type of exercise you are doing along with the intensity. By following the above, along with the tips from last month's article, you will be more likely to succeed and get the results you want. This time of year is the travel season. If you live in Dubai, you will be looking to vacate soon and get away from the hot summer weather. Or you may just have a visit home planned, to catch up with family and friends. I will be going back to the UK for two weeks. During this time I will exercise but I will do different types of exercise. Rather than it being gym and fitness focused, I
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Nicky Holland Personal Trainer Website: www.nicky-fitness.com Instagram: @nicky__fitness
PEOPLE
ben robbins Words by: Arnaud Laviolette
The man behind the extreme, well defined and detailed trails of UAE is not known on social media but well known on Wickiloc for his work and one of the most experienced and qualified mountaineer in the UAE. How did you start Mountaineering? I originally got into mountaineering when I was younger than I remember, doing smaller scale treks in the hillier areas of the UK, slowly moving up to the bigger, rockier, more hostile peaks. The more you discover, the more you want to discover, so as I have travelled around the world, I have explored different mountain types, in different climates, inhabited by different people; so it stays interesting.
closed off protected areas. Therefore, a part of my drive, is to be able to contribute information, after the exploration. Others can then use this and hopefully further improve on this, building up the knowledge available for everyone.
How do you find the mountaineering trend in the UAE compared to the rest of the world?
The peaks in the UAE reach up to around 2,000m in height, and there may be many mountainous areas in the world that far exceed this, however these peaks rise straight up and out of the sea; there is no messing about! Sheer walled wadi’s cut their way through them, and vertical cliff faces surround them. The feeling of standing on the side of these peaks is breath taking. Many mountain ranges in the world are well explored, documented, sign posted and used, however in the UAE a lot of the historic routes are still only known by those who live there, so there is still a real feeling of exploring the unknown.
What have you find interesting in the UAE as an experienced person? One of the most challenging aspects of exploring this regions mountain, is the
What is your most difficult hike in UAE?
ruggedness of the landscape. What may appear on a map, or from a far, as a smooth rolling landscape. However when looked at closes it is rugged and full of challenging steps, drops and gaps, frequently not hidden away. Navigational tricks that may be reliable in most parts of the world, cannot be taken for granted here. A wider developed wadi for instance, may still have that surprise 10m drop in it, just when you think you are almost back to the car. There is a lot of taking chances, working with probabilities, and researching beforehand involved in finding new routes, and this is what keeps it so interesting.
Difficulties in the UAE either come from the distances for the hard to reach spots, the heat, or the technical difficulties. Scrambling on Jebel Yabanah’s sharp western arête was one route that sticks in my mind for combining all of these difficulties. Worth it though.
What is your dream mountain or exploration?
I would love to have the opportunity to do the Pacific Crest Trail one day! ■
What are the advise you have for the hikers in UAE?
Don’t underestimate anything about these mountains, but don’t be scared off by them either. Everybody needs to start off small and then build on that. Check out the growing amount of information available, and get out there!
How would you like to contribute to the community?
When I started exploring these mountains in 2011, there was very little information out there, for accessing the mountains of the area. A lot of information previously documented is for areas now out of access, or in
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PEOPLE
Arwin Gonzales Sta. Clara His connection with these geologic rock Age: 31 formations makes him realize that human Nationality: Filipino beings are so minute as compared to the Occupation: Environmental Engineer mountains that he usually walks or runs into. Words by: Bandana Jain Photos by: Supplied
Trail running is an extreme sport which few dare to venture, yet once you get hooked to it, it is difficult to stop. Arwin Claraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fascination for mountains emanates from a Raramuri proverb, "When you run on the earth and with the earth, you can run forever."
Being with the mountains, alone or with friends is like a getaway for him from the daily grind of city life.
What inspired you to get into trail running and what has kept you hooked to it?
I've been doing trail running since 2014 in my home country, Philippines. One thing that got me inspired to this sport is my strong connection with nature and the environment around me. It is challenging, no doubt but it allows me to experience the tranquility of nature and in the process, I also get to visit different places and meet new people.
What fascinates you about trail running?
My fascination about trail running lies in the fact that I can enjoy breathtaking sceneries around me. It strengthens not only my body, but mind as well. Every ascent or descent that I make while I am on the mountains gives me the freedom from the complexity of daily mundane life.
What challenges have you come up against? How have you kept yourself motivated despite these challenges?
The process of reaching the mountains for training every weekend is a big challenge in itself. Considering the fact that I do not own a car, I usually commute through public transport reaching Ras al Khaimah bringing along my bicycle. From the bus station, I cycle my way to my target mountain where I do my training, which takes anything between 1.5hrs to 3hrs. During my training, I see to it that I have adequate nutrition (energy gels, energy bars, protein, etc), hydration (ie. water, power drinks) and all the necessary gears and sun protection. I ensure to have the appropriate clothing as well as hydration to keep me going during my training runs. On most occasions, I usually run with friends and cordially ask if I can get a lift for going to the mountains. It is in this way that I am motivated to continue my training. As the saying goes, "If there is a will, there is a way." Because of my will, I am finding a way!
Which has been your most memorable trail running stint and why? As it is commonly said, "The first time is the most memorable one,â&#x20AC;? my most memorable experience in trail running was when I did
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my first 100km ultra trail run event in May 2014 at Baguio City in Philippines. It was all sunny in the morning but in evening an intense rain storm caught us by surprise which lasted the entire duration of the night. It was cold considering that we did it between the altitudes of 1,400m to 2,200m. My legs were giving up; however, I persevered and proudly finished the race at 29 hours with the cutoff at 30 hours in total.
TNF Lavaredo is a 120km mountain race with about 6,000m of total ascent/descent passing through the Dolomites mountain range in Northern Italy. On the other hand, UTMB-CCC is a 102km mountain race with almost the same total ascent/descent passing through the Alpine mountains of Mont Blanc in France.
How has trail running impacted your personality?
I and my friends are encouraging people to take up this sport of trail running. It is a great alternative to the usual road running done in the city or to the usual hiking as trail running allows you to bring only the essentials while navigating through mountains in a much faster speed.
Trail running gave me a wider perspective of life in totality. It has taught me to face the unpredictable climate up in the mountains. It may be very hot or cold depending on the weather, the terrain may vary as well yet all you can do is just prepare the best for the most unpredictable weather. You may be going fast while running those long and steep downhill’s; or slower while doing those uphill’s but you always appreciate every challenge presented to you knowing that such experience will bring out the best in you. It is an analogy that in life you can either go fast or slow but you never forget to admire and appreciate the good or bad things that comes to you.
According to you, why should people get into trail running?
Beyond the usual thing that trail running challenges you far more than one can imagine, it develops both mental and physical strength. Just like any other sport, values such as sportsmanship, discipline and patience will be enhanced.
What is next on your cards as far as trail running is concerned?
I am preparing for my upcoming races in Europe in coming May and June’18. I will be participating in two races which are part of the Ultra Trail world tour namely The North Face Lavaredo Ultra Trail (TNF Lavaredo) in June in Italy and Ultra Trail Du Mont Blanc - Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix (UTMB-CCC) in August in France.
How do you intend to take your passion further?
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Any memorable moment during trail running that changed your perspective in life?
Some moments that stand out are during our training runs wherein we meet some of the locals that live in the mountains. It’s a notion that in the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah where because of the harsh conditions, no one would dare build houses out there. This wrong impression was corrected when we saw houses and farmers up in the mountains tending to their animals. One tends to feel a connection between what they do and mountain running - both are humbling experiences which allow us to stay connected with the environment as well as do the things which satisfies us as a person. ■
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UAE DIRECTORY General Sports Equipment Megastores
Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, +971 43466824; The Beach on JBR, Dubai: +971 44304419; Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi: +971 24456995, www.adventurehq.ae Decathlon, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre, +971 42839392, www.decathlon.com Go Sport, The Dubai Mall: +971 43253595; Abu Dhabi Mall: +971 26454595; Bawabat Al Sharq Mall, Abu Dhabi: +971 25868240; Yas Mall: +971 25650812; MOE: +971 4395 8951, www.go-sport.com Peiniger BMT Est., CBD, Khalifa Street, Yateem Optician Bldg., Abu Dhabi, UAE, +971 26262332, www.peiniger.org Sun and Sand Sports, most shopping centres, +971 43599905; Online store: +971 43149001; Retail store: +971 43504400, http://en-ae.sssports.com
Automobiles
Subaru Showroom – Al Khoory Automobiles Sheikh Zayed Road, Between 3rd and 4th Interchange, Dubai, +971 43146214 or 43146218; Email: alkhoory@alkhoory.com, www.subaru-uae.com; Timings: Saturday to Thursday 9:30am to 8:00pm
Adventure tours and desert safaris
Alpha Tours, P.O. Box 25718, 27th Floor, Burlington Tower, Business Bay, Dubai, +971 47019111, www.alphatoursdubai.com Dadabhai Travel, SR 1&2, GF, Gulf Towers, Oud Metha Rd. Dubai, +971 43885566, www.dadabhaitravel.ae Desert Rangers, P.O. Box 33501, Dubai UAE, +971 44569944 or 507035111 www.desertrangers.com Desert Road Tourism, Office 503, 5th Flr., Al Khor Plaza, Dubai, +971 42959429, www.desertroadtours.com Dreamdays, First Floor Rm. 107 Ibn Battuta Gate (Offices) Sheikh Zayed Rd., Dubai +971 44329392 or 44329393, www.dreamdays.ae Dream Explorer LLC, JLT, Dubai, P.O. Box 214576, +971 44563390 www.dreamexplorerdubai.com Dubai Relax Travel, P.O. Box 37459, National Towers: Churchill Tower Suite #614, Business Bay, Dubai, +971 528996307, www.dubairelaxtours.com Explorer Tours, Umm Ramool, Dubai, +971 42861991, www.explorertours.ae Gulf for Good, P.O. Box 506006, 1/F, Building 4, Dubai International Humanitarian City, Dubai, +971 43680222, www.gulf4good.org Gulf Ventures, Dnata Travel Centre, +971 44045880, www.gulfventures.com MMI Travel LLC, Mezzanine Floor, Dnata Travel Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 4 4045999, www.theemiratesgroup.com Net Group, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, +971 26794656, www.netgroupauh.com Oasis Palm Dubai, P.O. Box 181258 Dubai, Office 404, Royal Plaza Building Al Rigga Street, +971 42628889 or 42686826, www.opdubai.com Rahhalah, Shata Tower – 27th Floor, Office No. 2711, Media City, Dubai, +971 44472166, www.rahhalah.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Fishing, Camping, Kayaking, & Adventure Club, +971 5 04920860, mohammed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Air
Balloon Adventures Emirates, Office 123 Oasis Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43884044, www.ballooning.ae Dubai Paragliders, +971 552120155 or 552250193, www.microaviation.org Jazirah Aviation Club, Ras Al Khaimah, +971 72446416 or 555531318, www.jac-uae.net Seawings, Dubai,+971 48070708, www.seawings.ae Skydive Dubai, The Palm: Al Seyahi St, Dubai Marina, +971 43778888, www.skydivedubai.ae
Boating & Sailing
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Pavilion Marina, Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +971 44068800 Umm Al Quwaim Marine Sports Club, Umm Al Quwaim, +971 67666644, www.uaqmarineclub.com Dragon Boat Groups Dubai Dawn Patrol Dragon Boating, Dubai, +971 508795645, www.facebook.com/DubaiDawnPatrol Dubai Diggers, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, pier next to 360, Dubai, +971 501547175, www.dubai-diggers.com UAE Dragon Boat Association, +971 507634008, www.dubaidragonboat.com
Camping & Hiking
Equipment Blingmytruck.com, +971 505548255, www.blingmytruck.com Gulf Camping, Dubai, UAE, +971 551222252 or 502550666, www.gulfcamping.com Jack Wolfskin, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi, +971 24437802 Tresspass, 2nd floor above ice rink, The Dubai Mall, +971 43398801 Urban Peak, PO Box 9587, Office 502E, Ibn Battuta Gate Offices, Dubai, +971 44548805, www.urbanpeak.com Tour Operators Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971 559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +971 43926463, www.adventure.ae Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza – 503, Dubai, +971 42959428, www.arabiatours.com Libra Travel & Tourism LLC, +971 43397700, www.facebook.com/ LibraTravelDubai Mountain High Middle East, Dubai, +971 506595536, www.mountainhighme.com Sheesa Beach, Musandam, Dibba, +971 50336046, www.sheesabeach.com
Caving
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai, +971 43480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Climbing
Equipment Adventure HQ, Sheikh Zayed Rd., Dubai Times Square Center, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, Dubai, +971 43466558, www.barracudadubai.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, +971 48829361, www.globalclimbing.com Jack Wolfskin, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi +971 24437802, www.jack-wolfskin.com Services Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +971 43926463, www.adventure.ae Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae
MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi, +971 28137444, www.alshaheenme.com Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971 559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Dorell Sports Management, Dubai World Trade Centre, +971 43065061, www.climbingdubai.com E-Sports UAE, Dubai, +971 43697817, www.esportsuae.com The Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26731111, www.the-club.com Information UAE Climbing, +971 506456491, www.uaeclimbing.com
Mountain Biking & Cycling
Equipment/Dealers Bikers JLT, Unit H6, Cluster H, Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, UAE, +971 526221888 Cycle Sports, Shop No. 1, Al Waleed Bldg., Al Barsha 1, Dubai, +971 43415415, Fun Ride Sports, 301, 3rd floor, Mushrif Mall, Abu Dhabi, Rm. 4, Mezzanine floor, C-13 Bldg., Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi, +971 24455838, www.funridesports.com Micah’s Bike Shop, Warehouse No.4 6th St. Al Quoz 3, Dubai, +971 43805228 Probike, Dubai, Al Barsha 1, +971 43255705, www.probike.ae Rage Shop, Al Ghurair Centre: +971 4294 8634; MOE: +971 43413388; Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi: +971 24437617, Dubai Mall: +971 44341549, www.rage-shop.com Revolution Cycles, Shop G05, Apex Atrium, Motor City, Dubai, +971 43697441, www.rcdxb.com Ride Bike Shop, Sheikh Zayed Road: +971 43395602; Mirdif City Centre: +971 42840038; Al Seef Village Mall, Abu Dhabi: +971 26337172, www.ridebikeshop.com Sportz Unlimited, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, + 971 43388644 or 43391333 Tamreen Sports LLC, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi, +971 26222525, www.tamreensports.com The Cycle Hub, Motor City, Dubai, +971 505528872 or 44256555, www.thecyclehub.com Trek Bicycle Store, Seih Al Salam, Al Qudra Road, Dubai, +971 48327377; Shop #5, Reemas Building Al Quoz 1, Exit 46/47, Sheikh Zayed Road Dubai, +971 43211132, www.trekbikes.ae Trikke UPT, P.O. Box 53527, Dubai, + 971 43434499; P.O. Box 33869, Abu Dhabi, +971 26333377, www.trikkeme.net Wolfi’s Bike Shop, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43394453, www.wbs.ae Operator Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +971 43926463, www.adventure.ae, info@adventure.ae Clubs Abu Dhabi Tri Club, www.abudhabitriclub.com Cycle Safe Dubai, Dubai Autodrome www.cyclechallenge.ae Dubai Roadsters, +971 43394453, www.dubairoadsters.com
Diving
Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, +971 42894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +971 43444468 Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Blue Waters Marine, +971 43808616, Dubai, www.bluewatersmarine.com Gulf Marine Sports, Abu Dhabi, +971 26710017, www.gulfmarinesports.com Premiers for Equipment, Sheikh Zayed 1st. Road, Abu Dhabi, +971 26665226, www.premiers-uae.com Dive Shop.ae, Building #123, Street 26, Area 369, Al Quoz Industrial Area 4, Dubai, +971 43414940, www.diveshop.ae Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah, +971 92388477, www.scuba-2000.com Diving Centres Al Boom Diving (equipment), Dubai, Al Wasl Rd, +971 43422993, www.alboomdiving.com Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam, +971 72682333, www.aljeerport.ae Al Mahara Dive Center, near Muroor St. across from main bus terminal, +971 26437377, info@divemahara.com,
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OUTDOORUAE
www.divemahara.com Arabian Diver, Hilton Marine, Ras Al Khaimah, +971 72226628 or 502428128 www.arabiandiver.com Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971 506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com Coastal Technical Divers, glenn@coastaltechnicaldivers.com, www.coastaltechnicaldivers.com Deep Blue Sea Diving, International City, Dubai, +971 44308246, www.diveindubai.com Desert Islands, Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE, +971 28015454, www.divemahara.com Divers Down, +971 559888687, Dubai; Fujairah, Rotana Al Aqah Hotel Resort & Spa, +971 92370299, www.diversdownuae.com Emirates Divers Centre, Abu Dhabi, near Meena Fish Market, +97126432444, www.edc-ad.ae Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, +971 506130486 contactus@freedivinguae.com, www.freedivinguae.com Freestyle Divers, Al Corniche Street, Dibba, Fujairah, +971 504514259, www.freestyledivers.me Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Al Aqah Beach, Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah, +971 92449888, www.rotana.com Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Dibba Road, Fujairah, +971 92449000, www.lemeridien-alaqah.com Neptune Diving, +971 504347902, www.neptunedivingcentre.com Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai, +971 44068828 Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah, +971 92388477, www.scuba-2000.com Scuba UAE.com, +971 502053922, www.scubauae.com 7 Seas Diving Center, Khorfakkan, +971 92387400, www.7seasdivers.com Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah, +971 506683430, www.bsac406.com Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971 503336046, www.sheesabeach.com Sky & Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton, Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 43999005, www.watersportsdubai.com Clubs Atlantis Underwater Photography Club, Dubai, +971 44263000 Desert Sports Diving Club, Dubai, www.desertsportsdivingclub.net Emirates Diving Association, Diving Village, Al Shindagha, Dubai, +971 43939390, www.emiratesdiving.com Filipino SCUBA Divers Club (FSDC), Dubai, UAE, +971 566952421, www.facebook.com/FSDCuae Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, contactus@freedivinguae.com, www.freedivinguae.com Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah, +971 507840830, www.bsac406.com
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai, +971 42894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +971 43444468 Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +971 43390000, www.aym.ae/yamaha Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971 506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai, Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +971 43466558, www.barracudadubai.com Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11, The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43808616 or 553899995, www.bluewatersmarine.com Challenging Adventure, Wadi Al Bih Ras Al Khaimah, +971 561060798 or 44538386, contactus@challengingadventure.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, +971 48829361, www.globalclimbing.com Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre, +971 502898713, www.oceanactive.com
MAY - AUGUST 2018 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
Operators Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +971 43926463, www.adventure.ae Al Boom Diving, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujairah, +971 43422993 Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah, +971 72432274, www.alhamramarina.com Al Mahara Dive Center, Downtown Abu Dhabi, +971 501118125, www.divemahara.com Al Wasl Charter & Fishing, Airport Road, Al Qwais Bldg., Off. 207, Dubai, UAE, +971 42394760 or 42959477, www.cruiseindubai.com Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi, +971 26429995, www.alshaheenme.com Al Wasl Charter & Fishing (Al Wasl Passenger Yachts and Boats Rental LLC), Airport Road, Al Owais Building, Dubai, +971 42394761, www.cruiseindubai.com Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort, +971 506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971 559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Barracuda Diving Centre, Fujairah International Marine Club, +971 503366224 Belevari Marine, Abu Dhabi, +971 26594144 Captain Tony’s, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, +971 26507175, www.captaintonys.ae Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai, +971 507050433 or 506947764, www.seaworlddsf.com Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai, +971 48706668, 503960202, www.happydaysdubai.com Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel, Abu Dhabi, +971 26811900 Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Dibba Road, Fujairah, +971 92449000, www.lemeridien-alaqah.com Nautica 1992, Dubai, +971 504262415, www.nautica1992.ae Noukhada Adventure Company, Villa 332/7, Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi, +971 25581889, www.noukhada.ae Ocean Active, +971 504592259, www.oceanactive.com Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971 503336046, www.sheesabeach.com Soolyman Sport Fishing, Umm Suquiem, Fishing Port No. 2, Jumeirah Beach, +971 508866227, 508866228 or 503402379, www.soolymansportfishing.com Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai, +971 42573084, www.summertimemarine.com Xclusive Yachts, Dubai, Dubai Marina, +971 44327233, www.xclusiveyachts.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Camping, Fishing & Kayaking Club, mohamed.almahrouky@gmail.com Dubai Surfski & Kayak Club, Kitesurfers’ Beach, Umm Suqeim 1, Dubai, +971 554986280, www.dskc.hu
General Sports Equipment Distributors
Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha 800 Sport, Al Quoz, Dubai +971 43467751, www.800sport.ae Flip Flop Arabia, +971 556881793, 501084010, www.flipfloparabia.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai +971 48829361, www.globalclimbing.com Highbury Trading FZE LLC, P.O. Box 16111, RAK Free Trade Zone Authority, Ras Al Khaima, +971 526799506, www.highburytrade.com Jack Wolfskin, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi, +971 24437802 Ocean Sports FZE, +971 559352735, www.kitesurfsup.com Picnico General Trading, near Sharaf DG Metro Station, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43951113 Portable Shade UAE, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE, +971 508897125, www.portable-shade.net Sport in Life Distribution, Nad Al Hammar Rd., Ras Al Khor, Dubai, UAE, +971 42896001 or 42896002, info@sportinlife.ae, www.sportinlife.ae Tresspass, The Dubai Mall 2nd floor above ice rink, +971 43398801
Horse Riding
Equipment Al Asifa Horse Equestrian Equipment & Requisites Trading P.O. Box 77282, AL Khawanij 1st , Dubai, +971 554733110, www.asifa.ae Black Horse LLC, Baniyas West, Near Empost Abu Dhabhi, +971 25866205, www.blackhorseuae.com Bonjour Equestrian Supplies, Nad Al Hammar Rd., Ras Al Kho, Dubai, UAE, +971 42896001, +971 42896002, info@bonjourequestrian.com, www.bonjourequestrian.com Cavalos Equine Care and Supplies, 16th Street, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi, +917 22222433, www.cavalosuae.com Emirta Horse Requirement Centre, Sheik Zayed Rd., Dubai, +971 43437475, www.emirtahorse.com Equestrian Clubs/Centres Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, +971 24455500, www.adec-web.com Al Ahli Riding School, Al Amman Street, Dubai-Sharjah Rd., +971 42988408, www.alahliclub.info Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com Al Jiyad Stables, Behind Dubai International Endurance City, Dubai, +971 505995866, info@aljiyad.com, www.aljiyad.com Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre, Dubai, +971 44274055, equestrian.centre@alsahra.com Desert Equestrian Club, Mirdif, Dubai, +971 503099770 or 501978888 Desert Palm Riding School, Near Al Awir Road (going to Hatta-Oman), Dubai, +971 43238010, www.dubaipoloclub.com Dubai Polo Academy, Dubai, +971 508879847, www.dubaipoloacademy.com Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai, Arabian Ranches, +971 43618111, www.poloclubdubai.com Emirates Equestrian Centre, Dubai, +971 505587656, www.emiratesequestriancentre.com Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club, Exit 399, Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi, +971 25629050, www.grpc.ae Golden Stables Equestrian Club, Al Khawaneej, Dubai, (Nouri) +971 555528182 Hoofbeatz, located just inside the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai, +971 569424551, www.hoofbeatz.com Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club, Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Road, Dubai, +971 42571256, www.mushrifec.com Rahal Ranch, Al Wathba Racing Area, Abu Dhabi, +971 565066741, www.rahalranch.com Riding for the Disabled, Dubai, lessons@rdad.ae, www.rdad.ae, Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club, Sharjah, Al Dhaid Road, +971 65311188, www.serc.ae Racecourses Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif, Abu Dhabi, +971 24455500, www.adec-web.com Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, Exit 399, Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi, +971 25629050, www.grpc.ae Jebel Ali Racecourse, off the main Abu Dhabi - Dubai Highway (Sheikh Zayed road) beside the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai, +971 43474914 Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse, Al Meydan Road, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, +971 43270000, www.meydan.ae Sharjah Racecourse, Al Dhaid Road, Sharjah, +971 65311155, www.serc.ae
Jet Ski Dealers
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +971 43468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Rd., Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Japan Marine General Trading, Al Garhoud Road, Liberty Building, Dubai, +971 44426395, uday@japanmarine.jp, www.japanmarine.co Liberty Kawasaki, Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Direct: +971 45019442, 45019412 or 43419341, www.libertykawasaki.com
MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
Motocross & ATV’s
Dealers Al Badayer Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, +971 68861161 or 507842020, www.albadayerrental.com Al Shaali Moto, Ras Al Khor, +971 43200009, www.alshaalimoto.com Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Golden Desert Motorcycles, P.O. Box 47912, E-44 Hatta road, Al Badayer Madam, Sharjah, +971 529484616 or 505 033 800 KTM, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, exit 42, +971 43468999, www.ktm.com Liberty Kawasaki, Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Direct: +971 45019442, 45019412 or 43419341, www.libertykawasaki.com Motoventure, Hobbies Club, Al Awir, Hatta Road, Dubai, +971 555437392, www.motoventure.net Elite Dune Off Road Motorcycles Rental L.L.C. (MXDUBAI / Just Gas It), Falcon Oasis Desert Safari Camp, Al Awir, Dubai info@mxdubai.com / enquiries@justgasit.net +971 552622707 / 552621377 Polaris UAE (atv’s), Ras Al Khor, Nad al Hamar Road, Al Ghandi Complex, Dubai, +971 42896100, M4, Sector 13, 10th Street, Mussafah Industrial, Abu Dhabi, +971 26441478, www.polarisuae.com Sebsports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 Dubai, +971 43393399, www.sebsports.com Equipment Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental), Al Quoz, Dubai, +971 43395608, Sebsports, Dubai, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, +971 43393399, www.sebsports.com 2XWheeler, Motorcity Dubai, +971 44548388, www.2xwheeler.com
Motorcycling
Distributors and Dealers Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Rd., Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha Ducati, Al Salam Street, Abu Dhabi, +971 24918593, www.ducati.ae Duseja General Trading Co. LLC, Warehouse No: B3, Alquoz Ind Area #3, Umm Suqeim Road next to Max Garage Diagonally opposite Lulu Hypermarket Al Barsha, +971 43476712, www.dusejamoto.com Harley-Davidson, Mussafah 4, Street 10, Abu Dhabi, +971 25540667, hd.auh@harley-davidson.ae, www.harley-davidson-abu-dhabi.com Liberty Kawasaki, Interchange4, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Direct: +971 45019442, 45019412 or 43419341, www.libertykawasaki.com Polaris UAE, Al Ghandi Complex, Nad al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor, +971 42896100, www.polarisuae.com Tristar Motorcycles, Al Awir Road, Nr Oman Transport, +971 43330659, www.tristaruae.com Workshops and Services Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, +971 43678700,www.dubaiautodrome.com Emirates Motorplex, Umm Al Quwain, +971 67681166 2xWheeler Adventures, Dubai, +971 44548388, www.alainraceway.com
ALL YOU CAN EAT
SUSHI AED
99
terms & conditions apply
MAY - AUGUST 2018 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai, +971 48321050, Yellow Hat, Nad Al Hamar, and Times Square Center, Dubai, +971 42898060, www.yellowhat.ae Tour Operators Arabian Adventures, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +971 43034888, www.arabian-adventures.com Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza – 503, Dubai, +971 42959429, www.desertroadtours.com Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +971 4 2628832 or 4 2686826, www.opdubai.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Off- Road Club, www.ad4x4.com ALMOST 4x4 Off-Road Club, +971 507665522, www.almost4x4.com Dubai Offroaders, www.dubaioffroaders. com JEEP Wrangler JK Fun Club, suffian.omar@yahoo.com, www.jk-funclub.com ME 4X4, www.me4x4.com
Running
Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, 800 YAS (927) or +971 26599800, www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Off-Road
Dealers Bling My Truck, +971 503634839 or 505548255, info@blingmytruck.com, www.blingmytruck.com 4x4 Motors LLC, Shk. Zayed Rd, Dubai, +971 43384866, www.4x4motors.com Liberty Automobiles, Dubai, 800 5423789, www.libertyautos.com Repairs and Services AAA Service Centre, Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE, +971 4 2858989, www.aaadubai.com Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +971 43382744, www.icon-auto.com Mebar Auto, Al Quoz, Industrial Area 2, Dubai, UAE, +971 43469600, www.mebarauto.com Off Road Zone, Dubai, Al Quoz, +971 43392449, www.offroad-zone.com Saluki Motorsport, Dubai, +971 43476939 www.salukimotorsport.com Equipment Advanced Expedition Vehicles, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +971 43307152, www.aev.ae Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha ARB Emirates 4x4 Accessories, Dubai International City, +971 4 4327190 & Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, +971 2 5553600 www.arbemirates.com Bling My Truck, +971 503634839 or 505548255, www.blingmytruck.com Heartland UAE, Al Mafraq Industrial, Abu Dhabi, +971 569796524 or 506472447, www.heartlanduae.com Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +971 43382744, www.icon-auto.com Mebar Auto, Al Quoz, Industrial Area 2, Dubai, UAE, +971 4 3469600, www.mebarauto.com
Clubs ABRasAC, Dubai, www.abrasac.org Abu Dhabi Tri Club, Abu Dhabi, www.abudhabitriclub.org Abu Dhabi Striders, admin@abudhabistriders.com, www.abudhabistriders.com Al Ain Road Runners, Abu Dhabi, +971 504188978, alainroadrunners@yahoo.co.uk Mirdif Milers, Dubai, www.mirdifmilers.info Dubai Creek Striders www.dubaicreekstriders.org Desert Road Runners www.desertroadrunners.club
Stand up Paddling, Kite & Surfing, Wakeboarding
Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai, +971 42894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43468000,www.masaoodmarine.com Kitesurf Dubai, Kitesurf Beach, Umm Suqueim and Jumeirah 3 +971 505586190, www.kitesurfdubai.ae Picnico, Al Fairdooni Building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Near Sharaf DG Metro Station and Mall of Emirates, +971 43951113 Surf Dubai, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, +971 505043020, www.surfingdubai.com Surf Shop Arabia, Building 1, Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai, +971 564716180, www.surfshoparabia.com Surf School Arabia, +971 556010997, www.surfschoolarabia.com UAE Kite Surfing, +971 505626383, www.ad-kitesurfing.net Distributors Kitepeople Kite & Surf Store, International City, Dubai, +971 504559098, www.kitepeople.ae Ocean Sports FZE, +971 559352735, www.kitesurfsup.com Operators Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com Dubai Kite Surf School, Umm Suqeim Beach, Dubai, +971 504965107, www.dubaikitesurfschool.com Duco Maritime, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah
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and Abu Dhabi, +971 508703427, www.ducomaritime.com Dukite, Kitesurf Beach, Umm Suqeim, Dubai,+971 507586992, www.dukite.com Kite Fly, Dubai, +971 502547440, www.kitesurf.ae Kitepro Abu Dhabi, Yas Island and Al Dabbayyah, Abu Dhabi, +971 505441494, www.kitepro.ae Nautica1992, Dubai, +971 504262415, www.nautica1992.ae Shamal Kite Surfing, Umm Suqueim Dubai, +971 507689226, www.shamalkitesurfing.com Sky & Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton, Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 43999005, www.watersportsdubai.com Surf School UAE, Umm Suqeim Beach and Building 1, Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai, +971 43791998, www.surfschooluae.com Watercooled, Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa, Dubai, +971 48876771, www.watercooleddubai.com Water Cooled, Watercooled Sports Services LLC, Hilton Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26395997, www.watercooleduae.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle, www.abudhabisup.com UAE SUP and Surf Association, +971 26665588, www.ridersuae.com
Water Parks
Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, +971 44260000, www. atlantisthepalm.com Dreamland Aqua Park, Umm Al Quwain, Emirates Road, +971 67681888, www.dreamlanduae.com Wadi Adventure, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain, +971 37818422, www.wadiadventure.ae Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai, +971 43484444, www.wildwadi.com
Other leisure activities
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, P.O. Box 51234, Sas Al Nakhl, Abu Dhabi, +971 28853555, www.adgolfclub.com Al Tamimi Stables, Sharjah, +971 67431122 or 44370505, www.tamimistables.com Blokart Sailing, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai, +971 556101841, www.blokartme.com Children’s City, Creek Park Gate No.1, Dubai, +971 43340808, www.childrencity.ae Dolphin Bay Atlantis, Dubai, +971 44262000, www.atlantisthepalm.com Dubai Dolphinarium Dubai, Creek Park Gate No. 1, +971 43369773, www.dubaidolphinarium.ae iFly Dubai, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre, +971 42316292, www.iflyme.com Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, +971 25578000, www.sbgolfclub.ae Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Sharjah, +971 65487777, www.golfandshootingshj.com SkiDubai, Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, +971 44094000, www.skidxb.com Spacewalk Indoor Skydiving, Abu Dhabi, +971 26577601, adcountryclub.com/ spacewalk/about-spacewalk/
Health, Safety & Training
Safety Lessons Marine Concept Yacht Charter & Sea School, Rania Business Centre, Dubai, +971 559603030, www.marine-charter-concept.com Sport and Health Centres Bespoke Wellness, Dubai, +971 553724670, www.bespoke-wellness.com Original Fitness Co., C6 Tower Al Bateen Bainunah St, Abu Dhabi, +971 2406 9404; P.O. Box 126469, Office 508 The Fairmont Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43116571 www.originalfitnessco.com Orthosports Medical Centre, 5B Street, Jumeira Beach road, Dubai, 800 ORTHO (67846), www.orthosp.com The Physio Center, Suite 405, Building 49, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, +971 44370570, www.physiocentre.ae
OUTDOORUAE
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MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
OMAN DIRECTORY Adventure tours and desert safaris
Bike and Hike Oman, P.O. Box 833, Ruwi, Postal Code 112, Oman, +968 24400873, www.bikeandhikeoman.com Dolphin Qasab Tours, P.O. Box 123, P.C. 811, Khasab City, Musandam, Oman, +968 26730813, www.dolphinkhasabtours.com Go Dive Oman, Marina Bander Al Rowdha Dive Center, +968 9548 3813 or 98194444, www.godiveoman.com Khour Shem Tourism, Oman, +968 91713449, www.khourshemtours.com Nomad Tours, PO Box 583, Postal Code 100, Muscat, Oman, +968 95495240, www.nomadtours.com Oman Trekking Guides, PO Box 917, NIZWA, Oman, +968 95741441, http://omantrekkingguides.tumblr.com Cruise Operators Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +968 26836551, www.sheesabeach.com
Diving
Equipment Al Marsa Musandam, PO Box 44, Dibba, Sultanate of Oman, +968 26836550; UAE: +971 502124100, www.almarsamusandam.com
QATAR DIRECTORY Adventure tours and desert safaris
Al Mulla Travels, P.O. Box 4147, Doha, Qatar, +974 44413488, almullatrvls@qatar.net.qa Alpha Tours, P.O. Box 13530, Doha, Qatar, +974 4344499, info@alphatoursqatar.com Al QAYED Travel & Tours, PO Box: 158, Doha, Qatar, +974 44072244, www.alqayedtravel.com Arabian Adventures, PO Box 4476, Doha, Qatar, +974 44361461, www.arabianadventureqatar.net Black Pearls Tourism Services, P.O. Box: 45677, Doha, Qatar, +974 44357333 E2E Qatar Travel and Tours, PO Box 23563, Doha, Qatar, +974 44516688 or 444515995, www.e2eqatar.com Falcon Travels, PO Box 22031, Doha, Qatar, +974 44354777, www.falcontravelqatar.com Gulf Adventures Tourism LLC, P.O. Box 18180, 29 Aspire Zone Street, Aspire Zone Al Ryyan City, State of Qatar Switchboard: +974 44221888, www.gulf-adventures.com Net Tours Qatar, P.O. Box 23080, Doha, Qatar, +974 4310902, www.nettours.com.qa Regency Travel & Tours, +974 44344444, www.regencyholidays.com Qatar Adventure, P.O. Box 13915, Doha, Qatar, +974 55694561, www.qataradventure.com Qatar Inbound Tours, P.O. Box 21153, +974 77451196, www.inboundtoursqatar.com Qatar International Tours, P.O. Box 55733 Doha, Qatar, +974 44551141, www.qittour.com Qatar Ventures, Barwa Village Bulding #12 Shop #33, Doha, Qatar, +974 55776679, www.qatar-ventures.com
OUTDOORUAE
Camping & Hiking
Al Sawadi Beach Resort, P.O. Box 747, Barka - Al Sawadi, Oman, +968 26795545, www.alsawadibeach.info Diving UAE & Oman, www.dive-uae-oman.com Euro Divers CAYC Oman, Marina Bandar Al Rhowda, P.O. Box 940, Muscat, Oman, +968 97899094, www.euro-divers.com Extra Divers Musandam, PO Box 498, PC 811 Khasab, Musandam, Oman, +968 99877957, www.musandam-diving.com Global Scuba LLC, +968 24692346, www.global-scuba.com Khasab Musandam Travel & Tours, P.O. Box 786, PC No. 811, Khasab, Musandam, Sultanate of Oman, +968 91713449, info@tourkhasab.com Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman, +968 24534554, www.almoujmarina.com Moon Light Dive Center, P.O. Box 65, Madinat Qaboos, Muscat Oman, +968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com Nomad Ocean Adventures, +968 26836069, Dibba, Oman; Fujairah, +971 508918207, www.discovernomad.com Diving Centres Euro-divers Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, P.O. Box 940, Postal Code 100 Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, +968 98194444, www.euro-divers.com Extra Divers Zighy Bay, Oman, Musandam, +968 26735555, www.extradivers.info
Moonlight Dive Center, Near Grand Hyatt Muscat, Shati Al Qurum, Oman, +968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com Oman Dive Center, Muscat, Oman, +968 24284240, www.omandivecenter.com Oman Dive Center Resort, P.O. Box 199, Medinat Sultan Qaboos, Oman, +968 24824240, www.omandivecenter.info Omanta Scuba Diving Academy, Al Kharjiya Street, Al Shati Area, Muscat, Oman, +968 99777045, www.omantascuba.com Oxygen Diving and Adventures, P.O. Box 1363 PC130 Alazaiba, Muscat, Oman, +968 92537494 or 9723 2661, www.o2diveoman.com Scuba Oman, Oman, +968 99558488, www.scubaoman.com Seaoman, P.O. Box 2394, RUWI PC 112, Oman, +968 24181400, www.seaoman.com
Stand Up Paddeling, Kite & Surfing, Wakeboarding
Boating & Sailing
Equipment, Operators Kiteboarding Oman, Sawadi Beach, P.O. Box: 133, PC 118, Muscat, Oman, +968 96323524, www.kiteboarding-oman.com Oman’s Kite Center, +968 94006007, www.kitesurfing-lessons.com
Manufacturer Saphire Marine, PO Box: 11, Post Code 118, Muscat, Oman, +968 24568887, 24566566, 24561619 or 24568881, www.sapphire-marine.com Marinas Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Muscat, Oman, +968 24737286 (ext 215), www.marinaoman.net
Clubs
Horse Riding
Fishing & Kayaking
Cycling, Running & Triathlon Qatar Chain Reaction, www.qatarchainreaction.weebly.com Qatar Sandstromers, +974 77775207 or 77776634, www.facebook.com/ QatarSandstormers Velostar Doha, https://www.facebook.com/ groups/587539064642288/ Doha Bay Running Club, www.dohabayrunningclub.com TriClub Doha, www.triclubdoha.com
General Sports Equipment Megastores
Galaxy Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor, Qatar: +974 44822194; Villagio Mall, Qatar: +974 44569143; Ezdan Mall, Qatar: +974 44922827, The Pearl(Parcel 9) +974 40027513, Souq Jabor +974 44430322. Office: +974 44417935, www.galaxysportqatar.com GO Sport Qatar, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor, +974 44631644; Villaggio Mall, +974 44157463, www.facebook.com/gosport.qatar Sun & Sand Sports Qatar, City Centre Mall, +974 44837007; Dar Al Salam Mall, +974 44510179; Mustafawi Exhibition, +974 44935183, en-ae.sssports.com
Boating & Sailing
Equipment Regatta Sailing Academy, Katara Beach +974 55503484 www.regattasailingacademy.com Distributors and Dealers Speed Marine, Speed Marine, Museum Road, P.O. Box 9145 Doha, Qatar, +974 44410109, www.speedmarinegroup.com Marinas Four Seasons Marina, Doha, Qatar, +974 44948899, www.mourjanmarinas.com Lusail Marina, Lusail City, Qatar, +974 55843282, www.mourjan-lusailmarina.com The Pearl–Qatar Marinas, Doha, Qatar, +974 44953894, www.ronauticame.com
Add your free listing to the
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MAY - AUGUST 2018 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
Equestrian Clubs/Centres Al Shaqab, P.O. Box 90055, Doha, Qatar, +974 44546320, www.alshaqab.com Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club, Racing and Equestrian Club, P.O. Box 7559, Doha, Qatar, +974 44197704, www.qrec.gov.qa
Diving
Equipment/Centres Al Fardan Marine Services, Najma Street (near Al Fardan Exchange), Doha, Qatar, +974 44435626 Doha Sub Aqua Club, Doha Sub-Aqua Club, PO Box: 5048, Doha, Qatar, +974 50483794, www.dohasubaquaclub.com Extreme Adventure, P.O. Box 33002, Shop 3, 4 Ahmed Bin Ali Street (Bin Omran), Doha, Qatar, +974 44877884, www.extreme.qa GoSport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor, Qatar: +974 44631644; Villagio Mall, Qatar: +974 44517574, www.facebook.com/gosport.qatar Pearl Divers, P.O. Box 2489, Doha, Qatar, +974 44449553, www.pearl-divers.org Poseidon Dive Center, P.O. Box: 11538, Ras Abu Abboud Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2, Doha, Qatar +974 66084040, www.pdcqatar.com Qatar Scuba Center, 187 Al Mansoura Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar, +974 66662277, www.qatarscubacenter.com Q-Dive Marine Centre, Souq Al Najada cnr of Grand Hamad and Ali bin Abdulla Street; +974 55319507 or 4375065, www.qdive.net World Marine Centre, PO Box 6944, Doha, Qatar, +974 44360989, www.worldmarinecenter.webs.com Qatar Divers, Marriott Hotel Marina Near Old Airport, Ras Abu Aboud Area, Doha, Qatar, +974 55246651, 40405156, www.qatardivers.com Qatar Marine, Go Sport City Center West Bay, P.O. Box 16657, Doha, +974 55319507, www.qatarmarine.net Qatar Scuba Centre, 187 Al Mansoura Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar, +974 66662277 or 44422234, www.qatarscubacenter.com
Tour Operators Safari Desert Camp, P.O. Box 117, Postal Code 421, Bediyah, Ghabbi, Oman, +968 99310108, www.safaridesert.com
Caving
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman, +968 24543002, www.holiday-in-oman.com Oman World Tourism, Oman, +968 24565288, www.omanworldtourism.com
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment Az’Zaha Tours, +968 99425461, www.azzahatours.com Water World Marine Oman, P.O. Box 76, Muscat, 113, Sultanate of Oman, +968 24737438, www.waterworldoman.com
Equipment Al Kashat, Fishing and Hunting Equipment, Souq Waqif, next to the Falcon Souq, +974 70057489 Al Mamzoore Marine Equipment, P.O. Box 6449, Old Salata, Doha, Qatar, +974 44444238, almamzoore@qatar.net.qa Extreme Adventure, Shop 3,4 Ahmed Bin Ali Steet, Doha, +974 44877884, www.extreme.qa Fish World, P.O. Box 1975, Doha, Qatar, +974 44340754 State of Qatar (QatarSub), Souq Waqif, next to the Falcon Souq, +974 4431234, www.stateofqatar.com Operators Paddle Qatar, +974 55490895, www.paddleqatar.com
Stand Up Paddeling, Kite & Surfing, Wakeboarding
Equipment, Operators Fly-N-Ride, Ras abu Aboud, Doha, +974 33117089, Flo Kite School, Westbay, Doha, +974 33155628, www.flokiteschool.com Kitesurfing Qatar, +97430179108, www.kitesurfingqatar.com QSUP, Qanat Quartier, Costa Malaz, The Pearl-Qc, Doha, Qatar, +974 66602830, www.qsup.me
Cycling (Road & Off Road)
Bike Servicing, Equipment Carbon Wheels Bike Shop, Al Maha Center 10, Salwa Road, Doha, +974 44419048, www.facebook.com/CarbonWheelsQTR Flash Bike Shop, Mesaeed New Souq, Shop C.06, +974 6600 9116, www.flashbikeshop.com Skate Shack, Salwa Road, South Doha, +974 44692532, www.skate-shack.com Galaxy Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor, +974 44822194; Villaggio Mall, +974 4456 9143; Ezdan Mall, +974 4492 2827, www.galaxysportqatar.com Sportswell, Salwa Road, South Doha, +974 44151687
ONLINE DIRECTORY