OutdoorUAE - April 2016 by OutdoorUAE

Dark Skies Challenge 2016

DMX in photos Champion tactics

at ADDC

MX Starter Tips

Plenty of

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A GUIDE

Vol. 6, No. 4 April 2016

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

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OutdoorUAE Team

Engines and our Motorsport Addiction The initial purpose of a vehicle – any vehicle is to get people from point A to point B. Simple as that. We as an entire human race have long since been fascinated with the speed and efficiency by which we can reach certain destinations. Some people however go the extra mile and get to point A and point B in style. These are the weekend warriors, the raceday rockstars, the people we follow on television or in – today’s society, the Internet. There is an entire culture behind the world of motocross. There are websites, social streams, videos, icons, tracks and as many Halls of Fame as anyone could count. This is not limited to motocross too, there is also our fascination with cars – above all, motorboats, airplanes, ATVs — basically anything with an engine is fair game for us. We take these creations of fine engineering out for the day and we push their limits, and in this process, we are making something lifeless – machines, into something more human because we push their boundaries – we get them through patches, make them fly through the air and more for the sake of satisfying our inner selves. But the world of motorsports is not just an individual journey. Along the way you’ll be backed by friends and family and of course the idols which made you want to follow along their footsteps. There will be times when you or others will recommend a route for each other to ride, or you can even go along community rides. This sense of unity within the motoring community is such a strong bond that it’s not surprising really to see that these same people are also buddies outside the track. So for this month, prepare to read about stories from everyone behind the wheel, be it proper drift cars, dirt bikes shredding some sand, 4x4s bashing some dunes in the desert, stunt planes taking the skies or wild powerboats Keith Pereña tearing through the waves. This issue is about our desire to go faster or Junior Editor & Social Media further with the help of the greatest invention known to man – the engine.

Daniel Birkhofer Founder daniel@outdooruae.com

Rachael Bruford Travel Editor rachael@outdooruae.com

Eulogy van Dyk Editor Qatar eulogy@outdooruae.com

Nela Macovei Business Development Manager nela@outdooruae.com

Margo Ciruelos Sales and Marketing margo@outdooruae.com

Ireneo ‘Jung’ Francisco Designer and Photographer jung@outdooruae.com

Katherine Cañedo Patangui Administration kathy@outdooruae.com

keith@outdooruae.com

Editor For editorial content and press releases Tel: 04-447 2030 Mobile: 055 5760322 editor@outdooruae.com Sales & Marketing (advertisement enquiries) Tel: 04-447 2030 Mobile: 055 8647125 nela@outdooruae.com Mobile: 055 9398915 margo@outdooruae.com Published by Outdoor UAE FZE In cooperation with A2Z EVENTS P.O. Box 215062 Dubai, U.A.E. Cover photo by: Avinash John

Tel. 04-447 2030 contact@outdooruae.com www.outdooruae.com Distributor Dar Al Hikma LLC P.O. Box 2007, Dubai, UAE Tel. 04-266 5394 Printed at GN Printing P.O. Box 6519, Dubai, UAE © 2016 Outdoor UAE FZE Vol. 6, No. 4, April 2016

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EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS

Kit Belen Our fishing pro

Nico de Corato Diver and heli rescue swimmer with Bergamo Scuba Angels

www.OutdoorUAE.com Facebook.com/OutdoorUAE

Dan Wright Freelance wilderness guide in the UAE

Twitter.com/OutdoorUAE Instagram.com/OutdoorUAE

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.

Ian Sebeldia Circulation

Jake Lyle Diving and Watersport Expert

Helle Bachofen Von Echt Elite Women Cyclist

Marina Bruce The Desert Diva and off-road expert

WHEN YOU’RE DONE READING, PLEASE RECYCLE!

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CONTENTS

10 F1H2O POWERBOAT GRAND PRIX OF DUBAI

20 RED BULL AIR RACE

32 CROKANGO

EVERY ISSUE

20 RED BULL AIR RACE 21 DRIFT ALLSTARS AT YAS MARINA 22 URBAN-ULTRA HAJAR 100 24 PARIS-SORBONNE SUP RACE 26 UAC4X4’S 8TH ANNIVERSARY

06 EVENTS CALENDAR 08 BEST SHOTS 09 OFF-ROADER’S CORNER: ALL (FX) FOURS ON THE SAND 40 PRODUCTS 63 DIRECTORY

EVENT & ACTIVITY REPORTS EVENT + ACTIVITY REPORTS 10 F1H2O POWERBOAT GRAND PRIX OF DUBAI 12 ABU DHABI DESERT CHALLENGE PREVIEW 14 EMIRATES PALACE SUP FESTIVAL 16 IN PICTURES: THE PENULTIMATE RACE OF DMX 19 EARTH HOUR IN DUBAI

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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE 28 ACROSS ARABIAN SEAS: ENCOUNTERS WITH THE SUDANESE BEDOUIN 30 THE KILI QUARTET: ALTITUDE, AGONY AND AGE 32 CROKANGO, OR THE DEADLY KISS OF THE TIGERFISH

LIFESTYLE 34 OUTDOOR FLICKS: ON ANY SUNDAY, THE NEXT CHAPTER 35 HABITUALLY HEALTHY: CAVEMAN BABIES 36 NATURAL HISTORY: DOES SNOOPY SNORKEL?

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43 COLUMBIA TITANIUM APPAREL COLLECTION

46 DARK SKIES CHALLENGE

58 WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM MOTOCROSS

TRIED + TESTED

PEOPLE

39 2XU 24/7 COMPRESSION SOCKS 41 DJI OSMO GIMBAL AND CAMERA 43 COLUMBIA TITANIUM APPAREL COLLECTION 45 SIC RECON 11.4 SUP/SURF BOARD

56 KRISTIAN GHEDINA – SKIIER AND RACECAR DRIVER 57 NIGEL LAMB – AEROBATIC PILOT

OUR EXPERTS

TIPS + TRICKS

OUR EXPERTS 46 DARK SKIES CHALLENGE - MARINA 48 AWESOME AQUARIUMS: THE LOST CHAMBERS - JAKE 50 MAX DID IT - NICO 52 WOMEN ON WHEELS: PREPARING FOR LIFE WITH PROS – HELLE 54 THE CURSE THAT RULES US ALL - KIT

58 WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM MOTOCROSS 60 MX FITNESS BY FITNESS FIRST 61 CROSS CHAINING DO’S AND DON’TS BY REVOLUTION CYCLES 62 FAILING THE TEST OF FAILING TO TEST?

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

EVENTS CALENDAR

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST EVENTS

APRIL 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A P R I L

ABU DHABI DESERT CHALLENGE 2016

The oldest and most prestigious international cross-country rally in the UAE. When: April 1-7 Where: Empty Quarter, Liwa Contact: www.abudhabdesertchallenge.com

A P R I L

UAE JETSKI RACE

Intense, on-water action between an international line-up of over 80 racers. When: April 7 Where: Abu Dhabi Breakwater Contact: www.adimsc.ae APRIL

NORTH FACE ROCK RUN 2016

Grab your running gear for one of the biggest trail runs in the Middle East!

DUBAI HOLDING SKYRUN

52 floors, 1,334 steps and 265 metres of charitable running in the Emirates Towers offices. When: April 8 Where: Emirates Towers Contact: www.skyrun.ae APRIL

DUBAI DRESSAGE CHAMPIONSHIP

The exclusive, the elite and the best equestrians are coming to Dubai for two days of “Horse Ballet”. When: April 11-12 Where: Emirates Equestrian Centre Contact: www.emiratesequestriancentre.com

OCEANIC TRIATHLON SERIES Back by popular demand and with two new distances! When: April 15 Where: Oceanic Hotel Khorfakkan Contact: www.premieronline.com

When: April 1 Where: Wadi Showka Contact: www.facebook.com/northfaceme

APRIL

A P R I L

APRIL

G4G SNOW HIKE

Join Gulf for Good for an early morning hike at Ski Dubai! When: April 15 Where: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates Contact: www.gulf4good.org

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A P R I L

DUBAI POLO GOLD CUP 2016

The premier polo competition of the year bringing together the world’s best polo teams to battle out to win the title. When: April 8-15 Where: Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club Contact: www.dubaipologoldcup.com

A P R I L

TRIATHLON FESTIVAL 2016

A P R I L

ASHURST AQUATHLON SERIES – RACE 3

Whether you’re a runner, swimmer or sprinter, there’s bound to be something to be enjoyed at this event.

Now in its third year, this year’s event comes with three distances for even more challenges.

When: April 9 Where: Jebel Ali Golf Resort Contact: www.race-me-events.com

When: April 23 Where: Jebel Ali Golf Resort Contact: www.race-me-events.com

APRIL

HAMILTON AQUATICS DOHA DEVELOPMENT SERIES

The Development series is designed for young swimmers to experience a competitive environment.

APRIL

DUBAI DESERT ROAD RUN 10K AND 3K A friendly and safe run at the Sevens on a worry-free weekend. When: April 16 Where: The Sevens Village Area Contact: www.premieronline.com

An action packed championship of the fastest growing motorsport in the Middle East and the world! When: April 21-22 Where: Qatar Racing Club Contact: www.qrc.qa

When: April 16 Where: Hamad Aquatics Centre, Doha, Qatar Contact: www.hamiltonaquatics.ae APRIL

QATAR DRIFT CHAMPIONSHIP

APRIL

SHARBATLY FRUIT AQUATHLON The last race of the season and you last chance to win a French Alps holiday! When: April 30 Where: The Fairmont the Palm Contact: www.supersportsdubai.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 Buff headwear, five free copies of the magazine and the Advance Off-road Guidebook: Ace Espiritu, Arjun Sasi and Bassel Ounah. Well done!

Ace Espiritu

Lying on a sea of clouds in Yanas Mountain RAK

Arjun Sasi Eternity

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Bassel Ounah

Kayaking at DXB Paddling

THE

OFF-ROADERS corner

All (FX) Fours on the Sand Name: John Joseph Nationality: Indian Occupation: Group Projects and Facilities Manager at Binhendi Enterprises Ride: Ford F-150 FX4

Simple as it may be, John’s Ford F-150 has seen adventures of every kind and of course, he’s planning to add more bits and bobs to it to make it a more dedicated 4x4. He’s also planning an upgrade real soon. So while he’s not with the new ride yet (another epic off-roader), we catch him with his F-150. Tell us a little background story about the car...

I must say that I love trucks. I love that they have a big bed and are the ideal vehicles if you enjoy an outdoor lifestyle, which I certainly do. I took this for a test drive and fell in love with it even more, and couldn’t resist. After I sold my previous Cadillac CTS which was my work car, I started to look for a truck. As much as I would have loved to drive some of the cars which I previously owned such as Jeep Wrangler 95 YJ inline 6 and Ford Mustang GT, I couldn’t find any good one in the market. After a few months of looking around, I found this F-150 for sale. Low mileage, no modifications, spotless and never been off-road – exactly what I was looking for. It has never let me down since then.

Do you have something that you would consider to be a “special feature” of your car?

It is unstoppable. I take it off-road all the time and it never puts a foot wrong. It has a 5.0-litre engine mated to an automatic transmission and it has plenty of power.

I have driven it in the dunes and on rocky trails, and it tackles any terrain with ease. It helps give me an awesome sense of adventure and then when I get on the highway it drives as smooth as silk. Wadi and mountain trails gives me more fun than desert drives

home through roads which only my truck could manage. Should’ve seen the smile on their parents faces. I have always believed that the car you drive reflects your personality — and I would say my truck speaks volumes about mine.

What were your other options before you bought this car?

Any future modifications that you are planning?

The Dodge RAM was a closer option and almost finalised on one. But then this came my way and I couldn’t resist buying it. The FX4 trims - interior trims (suede with red piping) and exterior black stripes bowled me over.

How do you spend time with the car? I take her out to explore places in every chance that I get. I have been to places where only competent 4x4s can only go. Needless to say the truck has seen places, many places. Other than that, I have also pulled out a few cars out of some bad pickles. Those vehicles are competent dune bashers but the drivers probably had a bit of bad luck. But the best rescue was during last March’s rain. I helped get seven kids home after they got stuck in school. School buses couldn’t get to the school because of the floods and parents asked for help. I picked them up from Jebel Ali school and dropped them back

I have never seen the need to add performance modifications to a car – a good driver will take a standard car much further than a bad one will take one with extra horsepower or a larger engine transplant. It is super-smooth and hassle free, but of course some driving skills are required. It’s a powerful truck and its suspension allows it to tackle large bumps very smoothly, even at high speeds. Basically, the F-150 makes you feel in control and powerful, and this FX4 package is way more capable and formidable than before. White and black indeed looks good, but I also quite like these in red. I have plans to modify it a little with a Roush performance exhaust system as well as off-road bumpers. For the exterior, I’d like side steps and bash plates. I have foiled the bed door matte black recently to get that mean dirty look.

What 4x4 do you dream of owning? Roush Raptor is still in my bucket list for 2017. Maybe you’ll see me driving one?

Want your 4X4 to be the next feature? It’s all simple! 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!

OUTDOORUAE

EVENT REPORT

Emirates Racing Team is Back! Inside the Emirates Racing Team from the 2016 F1 Powerboat World Championship Emirates Racing Team is back for its second year running in the Formula 1 Powerboat World Championship. After an exciting first race that took place in Dubai on the 4th of March, the championship will now be moving over to Europe to compete in Evian on 17th July. The Emirates Racing Team has gained some extra additions to the team this year. Racing alongside accomplished Emirati veteran Ahmed Al Hameli and up and coming Swedish star Erik Stark is the Italian driver, Ivan Brigada returning to the sport after a five year absence. On his return to the sport Ivan commented: “It’s great to be back, this environment feels like home for me. The first Grand Prix in Dubai, where I finished in 7th position, I was still reintroducing myself to the boat and finding my feet but it was a good result and I feel strong coming into the championship.” Also joining the team is new Formula 4 driver Ali Bin Shaiban. Ali is well accustomed to the world of motorsports through his career in jet ski and go kart racing. Ali had a great result in his Formula 4 debut in the Dubai race and will be a exceptional addition to the Emirates Racing Team family. Ivan Brigada front

Erik Stark engaged

This strong line-up alongside team manager and four-time World Champion, Scott Gillman makes for a powerful team this season. Emirates Investment Corporation will be sponsoring the Emirates Racing Team for the second year running this year. On the sponsorship this season Faisal Al Meenah, Chairman of EMIC stated: “We at EMIC are happy to be supporting the team once again in the 2016 season. Through our endorsement we hope to raise awareness of this remarkable sport and demonstrate the passion and ambition that the Emirates Racing Team values as highly as us here at EMIC. We are proud to support the United Arab Emirates through the team and show the strength and talent of the UAE across the globe.” Reflecting on the sponsorship and upcoming season Ahmed Al Hameli said: “As I always say — this team for me is like family. I’ve worked with Scott Gillman for

over 12 years and I am building a strong bond with my team members Erik and Ivan. I feel honoured by the sponsorships this year and am extremely grateful EMIC has decided to continue their support of the team. I’m confident we can make them proud throughout the season and ultimately bring home the trophies for them.” Scott Gillman added: “I am thrilled at the support given by our sponsors and mem-

bers of the Emirates Racing Team family. This season I am feeling very positive about our team, Ivan had a great race, coming back after such a long gap. Erik was holding a strong position among the top 6 throughout the entire race until the last 7 laps when he had trouble with the prop and had to pull out. Ahmed is itching to get back into the boat for the rest of the season, his champion spirit and ability will make him come back stronger than ever. Lastly, our Formula 4 driver, Ali, is already showing so much strong potential after just a few times in the boat, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m confident he will be a fierce contender in future races. I feel lucky to have these talented drivers on my team and my sight is set on reaching for that top step of the podium.â&#x20AC;? The F1 Powerboat World championship was inaugurated in 1981 and is organised by the Union Internationale Motonautique (UIM) The sport has been described as the most spectacular water

Ivan Brigada side

sport in the world and the ultimate adrenaline rush. The power boats accelerate faster than most state of the art F1 cars and can reach speeds of 160kph in four seconds. The Emirates Racing Team will compete across the world this season in their unmissable black and orange powerboats in countries including France (17th July), Portugal (31st July), China - Harbin (4th September), China - Liuzhou (3rd October), Asia (DATE TBC), and then returning to the UAE for the exciting finale in Abu Dhabi (9th December) and finally in Sharjah (16th December).

EVENT REPORT

Inside the Minds of the Racers Insights on the 26th Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge Photos Supplied By: Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge

The stage is set for a classic battle for glory in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge powered by Nissan, with 166 competitors from 36 countries preparing to tackle the 26th edition of the event. Over the years, the Desert Challenge has produced some intriguing contests on four and two wheels, and the quality of the official entry list announced this month by the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE promises another spectacular showpiece from the 2nd to the 7th of April. Russia’s Vladimir Vasilyev and Konstantin Zhilstov are top racers in the 62-strong cars category as they look for a third successive victory in Abu Dhabi, where Yas Marina Circuit provides the Rally HQ and the finishing point for the rally. Their biggest challengers include Qatar’s two-times Dakar Rally winner Nasser Al Attiyah, the host country’s experienced World Rally Championship contender Sheikh Khalid Al Qassimi, Saudi Arabia’s Yazeed Al Rajhi and Finland’s former WRC star Mikko Hirvonen. The UAE’s 18-driver challenge also sees

eighth-seeded Yahya Al Helei maintaining his remarkable 100% appearance in the event, while his son Mansour defends the T2 production class title he won last year. The top ten racers also include accomplished German lady driver Jutta Kleinschmidt who finished third overall in the 1996 Desert Challenge and went on to become the first woman to win the Dakar Rally five years later. She forms one of two all-lady crews in the event with Swedish co-driver Tina Thorner, the other being Italians Valentina Casella and Giulia Maroni.

Interestingly, this introduction of women into the races thus proves to show that the challenge does not look upon gender and that the field of motocross and off-road is open for everyone. In the bikes category, Spain’s Marc Coma has retired from competitive rallying following his eighth Desert Challenge victory last year. This being the case the field is wide open for the competitors in the bikes category as they all vie for a title that is for anyone’s taking. With this tension settling between the riders, the event is guaranteed

Retiring ADDC defending champion Marc Coma’s title is ripe for the taking for this season

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a new bikes champion, and this year will see 42 riders from 12 nations on the deserts to compete for the title. Despite the bikes crown being anybody’s title, there are still some riders that are seen to be great bets to win the race. One such person is the Dubai-based, British rider Sam Sunderland, who was the runner-up to his KTM teammate Coma last year. Meanwhile, while all eyes are on Sunderland, people are also betting on Chile’s Pablo Quintanilla, who is seeded second is also expected to shine after his third place 12 months ago, rounding up the predictions for the top three seedings is this year’s Dakar Rally winner, Australian Toby Price. With regards other seedings, Emirati Mohammed Al Balooshi earned fourth place in the seedings sequence, an improvement from this placement of sixth place last year, while Laia Sanz, a multiple Spanish and European motorcycle trials champion who is among four lady riders taking part, is seeded sixth. This year’s challenge also sees the welcome return of veteran Slovenian rider Miran Stanovnik who missed the event’s 25th edition last year because of a training injury, ending an unbroken run of 19 appearances since the rally was extended to include bikes in 1995. Commenting on the lineup for this year’s event ATCUAE President Mohammed Ben Sulayem had this to say: “They are a very powerful entry list by any standard and we now look forward to another very competitive event . There are some new names this year, but once again we see so many familiar

faces. I’m very happy to see Yahya back again, as he has been with us from the start and is a great supporter of the event. It’s also nice to welcome back Miran, who is part of the Desert challenge family.” Taking place under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western region, the 26th Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is the second round of the 2016 FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies and the opening round of this year’s FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship. Cars defending champion Vasilyev drives one of seven prototype All4 Racing Minis as he looks to become only the second driver ever to complete a hat-trick of successive of Desert Challenge cars victories after JeanLouis Schlesser in 2001. Partnered by French navigator Matthieu Baumel in an Overdrive Toyota Hilux, Al Attiyah will be aiming to bury his disappointment from last year when he thought he had added to his 2008 victory but was excluded for a technical irregularity at the finish. Also hoping for better fortunes this time is Al Qassimi, who went out on the penultimate leg last year while holding fourth place on his Desert Challenge debut. He returns at the wheel of a Mini All4 Racing in partnership with Emirati co-driver Khalid Al Kendi. Also driving Minis are fourth-placed Saudi

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Vasiliyev aims to score another victory this year, being one of the few drivers to score consecutive wins at the ADDC.

Al Rajhi, who is joined by German co-driver Timo Gottschalk, and 2012 WRC runnerup Hirvonen, accompanied by Frenchman Michel Perin. Another lady driver aiming to make an impact is Dr. Keiko Hamaguchi, a Japanese surgeon who competes with Italian Umberto Fiori in a Toyota FJ Cruiser. The 2016 Desert Challenge gets under way with a super special spectator stage at Al Forsan International Sports Resort in Abu Dhabi on April 2nd, before heading out into the Rub Al Khali for five days of spectacular desert stages. The event finishes at Yas Marina Circuit on the 7th of April.

EVENT REPORT

Words By: Jen Scully

On Saturday, March 12th, stand-up paddlers from around the UAE joined together for the third annual Emirates Palace SUP Festival. Held on the pristine beach of the iconic hotel, the SUP Festival, organized by the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddlers, is an all day paddle festival with a variety of events to suit all paddlers young and old, those with plenty of experience and even complete newbies. This is one of the greatest appeals of the event, the ability to attract families, friends and keen paddlers to join together and share the love of the sport. The morning started with raindrops, a sky filled with clouds and a strong breeze that was sweeping over the typically complete

OUTDOORUAE

flat water in front of the Emirates Palace Beach. These conditions, if continued, would have provided much needed protection and relief from the sun, but the wind would’ve added an element of difficulty to the race course. Thankfully the clouds parted, the sun started to shine, and the wind died all before the first race kicked off at 10:30 a.m. It was a beautiful day for a SUP Festival. With 69 participants from 22 different countries, as young as 5 and as old as 58, the event brought together a wonderful international mix of ages to compete against each other in three main event distances. These included a 500m Sprint Beginner Race for Kids, Juniors, Men and Women. A 2km Recreation Race for Juniors, Men and Women and a 4km Distance Race for Juniors, Men and Women. This year’s race course proved to be the most challenging to date, a 1km course with six buoy turns and a 30m beach run in between laps. The beach run has become a signature part of the festival, in which racers jump off their board each lap, proceed with a beach run around a “chute” lined with flags and spectators cheering them on, then sprint back to their board to complete another lap. The 500m race completed two laps of shortened course, while the 2km and 4km events saw racers do two laps and four laps respectively. The feeling of jumping off your board to run the “chute” can be exhausting, however the cheers from the crowd encouraging each other to “Go, Go, Go” is an awesome feeling and makes every paddler want to do their best. Getting up close with the race course is the key to

participants and spectator interaction which provides an added element of excitement for the races. This year, the 4km race saw veteran and leading male UAE paddler, Amer Dandachi take top honour with relative ease. A quick start off the line, he gradually made space between second placer, Nick Yates, another seasoned veteran. Nick paddled hard to keep second throughout the race with a number of paddlers on his heels including, teen and Naish Middle East sponsored paddler, Guy Welchman. However, in the final lap it was Brian Stephenson who passed F-One paddler, Jakub Szczensy and Guy Welchman to secure the 3rd spot in the line up. The 4km women’s race was won by Naish Middle East rider Jen Scully, who also was busy playing two hats as she has spearheaded the event over the past three years. Passionate about SUP and bringing the community together, this event allows her to do just that and fit in racing too. Guy Welchman and Conrad Bay took first and second in the junior category. The 2km races saw tops spots taken by

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

Mostafa Al Hussaini and Esther Farrant, both veteran paddlers, but making a return to racing after a year hiatus. The surf style race 12’2 and under were won by Sebastian Lhomme and Verna Nizolla. Lucas Bay won the junior 2km race. Arnaud Perrisse and Jacinta Veitch racing in the 500m sprint took home 1st place for the Men and Women respectively. While Celia Dulieu and Lewis Cochrane won the sprint kids races. With the main, more competitive, races out of the way, there was plenty of more fun on the way. The afternoon saw the team relay and tandem races, which allowed for everyone, young and old to race together in some exciting team racing. The tandem race had two people on one board racing around a small course of three buoys about 75 metres in distance all together. One racer stood and paddled, while the partner laid on the board, using their hands to help paddle along and gain speed. This was a close race, which saw carnage at the buoy as people tried their best to hang on. Coming in the lead crossing the finish line together was Jules Chartier and Victoria Thieffen. The highlight of the day was the Mega SUP Team Relays. Using abnormally large stand up paddle boards from Red Paddle Co., these gigantic boards are used for team paddling. In these relay, teams of six were pitted against one another in a time trial. They paddled in unison or at least tried to,

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around a buoy and back, running the chute until they all crossed the line together. The top two teams battled it out in the Team Relay final. Team Naish just nudged out Team Red Paddle/F-One and claimed victory in the Mega SUP team contest. The event wrapped with the annual N1SCO Naish One Design Race - a 100 metre sprint knockout - with exciting heats battling it out until the final. This is one event in which you never know who the winner will be until the final heat and the first paddler cross the line. You have to have a quick start, an even quicker turn at the buoy and be ready to jump off the board and run or even jump and fly through the finish line to secure the top

spot. This year’s winner included Nick Yates, Jen Scully, Guy Welchman and Celia Dulieu. Thank you to all of the participants, the spectators and of course the sponsors for a wonderful day at the 2016 Emirates Palace SUP Festival.

The event would not have been possible without the support from the following sponsors:

Emirates Palace, A2Z Events, OutdoorUAE, Naish, Ocean Sports Middle East, Pro-Limit, Crowne Plaza, F-One, Red Paddle Co., Starboard, SeaYou, Hydro Marine, Eywoa, Wadi Adventure, Live Love SUP and Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.

Results 500m Sprint Men

500m Sprint Women

500m Sprint Girls

500m Sprint Boys

1. Arnaud Perrisse 2. Paolo Paolo

1. Jacinta Veitch 2. Severine 3. Ingrid Perrisse

1. Celia Dulieu 2. Nikka Vugrinec 3. Yenise Lefaut

1. Lewis Cochrane 2. Remy Lhomme 3. Sasha Perrisse

2k Rec. Men 12’6

2k Rec. Women 12’6

1. Mostafa Al Hussaini 1. Esther Farrant 2. Jules Chartier 2. Alexandra Ruta 3. Adrian Nizzola 3. Victoria Thieffin

2k Rec 12’2 & Under Men

2k Rec 12’2 & Under Women

1. Sebastian Lhomme 1. Verna Nizzola 2. Stephen Gilbert 2. Gaelle Dulieu 3. Chris Cochrane 3. Kristy Gkarikou

2k Junior

4k Distance Men

4k Distance Women

4k Distance Junior

1. Lucas Bay 2. Dominic Vurginec 3. Levi Chard

1. Amer Dandachi 2. Nick Yates 3. Brian Stephenson

1. Jen Scully 2. Christel 3. Marie Lalanne

1. Guy Welchman 2. Conrad Bay

Team Relay 1st

Tandem 1st

1. Levi Chard 3. Nick Yates 5. Guy Welchman Victoria Thieffen and Jules Chartier 2. Hosam Ashcraft 4. Jen Scully 6. Brian Stephenson N1SCO Naish Keiki N1SCO Naish Junior N1SCO Naish Women N1SCO Naish Men 1. Celia Dulieu 2. Yenise Lefaut 3. Laura Lhomme

1. Guy Welchman 2. Conrad Bay 3. Lucas Bay

1. Jen Scully 2. Marie Lalanne 3. Esther Farrant

1. Nick Yates 2. Jakub Sczcensy 3. Amer Dandachi

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EVENT REPORT

In Pictures:

The Penultimate Race of DMX Photos By: Avinash John

There are constant highlights to an event. But the most exciting is to see who will emerge the victor. Motocross is a real action sport - watching the competition take turns and make attacks, the noise of their dirt bikes and of course, the loud cheering when a winner is already found, they are clamored for pushing their own personal limits. That in itself is very interesting. At the start of the race are 20 riders – hopefuls if we may say who in a few minutes will be vying for the top spot in their various motorcycles – Yamahas, Kawasakis, KTMs and others. The grid is filled with tension which immediately disappears as soon as they are waved off to start. In a fraction of a second, the silence filled course is invaded by the shrill sound of motocross bikes and the sand comes alive as tyres make contact with them at every turn. The same could be said about the first lap which was full of attacks from all the racers as a lot of them try to set the tone for the rest of the day. From where I was standing, some of the audience as well as my friends were making predictions as to who will take this stage of the race. I decided to jump in on this and check out who is the fan favourite – the selection is varied as a lot of them are shooting for different people. But there seems to be a common denominator in

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OVERALL RESULTS

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Location: Jebel Ali

Length: 1.2000 Km

MX1/MX2 Pos

Start No.

411

4 5

Competitor

Total Points

Ross Runnalls

Daniel Hutchinson

Ryan Blair

111

Ben Menzies

Dale Jullien

Joshua Brodalka

141

Mitcheal Malpass

Sultan Al Balooshi

Dean Jullien

Abdullah Shatti

Darren Berry

Tycho Liejre

Mohammad Balooshi

Mohamed Jaffar

Mark Ackerman

Oliver Evelleigh

Masters 45+ | Veterans 35+ | Clubman 20+ Pos

Start No.

Total Points

895

Brent Gregson

Competitor

Mark Ackerman

Adam Ridgway

Mohammad Balooshi

Corado Meneghello

Janne Tuohino

Sean Holder

Paul Malpass

831

Enrico Barbaglia

John (Andrew) Watkinson

Duncan Crerar

222

L. Corby

150

Philip Van Der Walt

144

Alberto Secchi

897

Regen Laue

Total Points

Youth/85cc Pos

Start No.

Competitor

174

Abdula Anwar

Alexander Mortada

Ceirion Bray

Jamie Horn

Frederick Barker

Kayan Patel

Ladies Pos

Start No.

Total Points

Dana Miskulnig

Competitor

Katie Turie

Lacey Sexson

Chante Nolan

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place – they were all betting on the riders who won the past championships such as Jake Shipton or Ryan Blair. Nonetheless, I for one always root for the underdogs to challenge the champion bets so that we here in the audience could be treated to an amazing show of skill and expertise. For this race, I’m betting on Ross Runnals with the Kawasaki Racing Team and it seems my faith is not out of place as he is currently leading the MX1 class. Another rider I’m also quite fascinated with is Ahmed Alnuaimi from the 65cc class who is also from the Kawasaki team. He has shown a lot of improvement over the past season and has entered this March’s penultimate race with a show of skill unlike any other. Seeing action taking all over the track, it was a perfect opportunity for me to take some great photos of the event in the manner of telling a story. You can check out my shots along this article. You can also see the current standings below to see who’s leading the various categories. At the moment, motocross is no quite big yet here in the UAE but this is countered by the fact that it is one of the fastest growing motorsports in the Middle East. With various bike companies battling for sales, it allows fast riders to be sponsored but not

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to the extent as you would in Europe where a rider can live off racing. 90% of riders either have a job or are still in school. For this sport to grow even further, sponsors need to come and the DMX races have to be more prevalent and made aware of, and I think magazines such as OutdoorUAE does this greatly. So here’s to more awareness, more races and more dirt bike bashing action in the final race for the 2015/16 season of DMX on the 15th of April!

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EVENT REPORT

Switch Off for a Bright Tomorrow

2016 Earth Hour – Dubai Words By: Keith Perena Photos By: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority

When you think about it, most of the activities that we do outdoors would not be possible without a responsible and constant eye on the environment. That being said, it sounds just right when for the span of 60 short minutes Dubai turned off all its lights for the 2016 Earth Hour organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority for the ninth consecutive year, in line with the desire of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and under the patronage of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council for a greener Dubai. A lot of outdoor enthusiasts always go by an adage that goes “leave nothing but footprints” and I think that it’s one great initiative that of course supports Earth Hour. So much so that the event, taking place in Bay Avenue Park in Business Bay had not only a couple of cultural events free to experience and try out, but it also has some various outdoor activities to partake in such as wall climbing, ziplining and even making your own natural milkshake by use of a pedal-powered blender! The activities around the park ensured that there was fun to be had for everyone before the hour when they had to turn off all their lights. Queues from all over the location were lengthy with people securing free gifts – LED powered caps for a fun evening while some lighted organically made candles in hopes of a better Earth in the future. Around the vicinity, buildings; apartments and offices followed suit to the festivities. When the time to come for everyone to shut off their lights occurred, it was met at

first with a silence as well as enthusiasm among the crowd. Shockingly, the LED caps came to good use when all of a sudden, the park came to another life with the use of black light and all of sudden the participant’s caps came to have a fluorescent glow on them. Of course that doesn’t defeat the purpose of the event as the act of turning on unnecessary light saw a 222MWh reduction in the consumption of electricity and as well as a 96-tonne reduction of carbon dioxide emissions – effectively reducing the emirate’s carbon footprint. Quite a big number for a short span of time! What was surprising was the participation of nearby buildings as well including the Burj Khalifa. For that evening, the tallest building in the world fell dark in support of a cleaner and brighter future for everyone. Amidst the lights shutting off, a small walkathon around the area took place and it saw a couple of neon clad runners in varying colors walking along the vicinity looking like some beacons of the future. On the venue itself, some lightshows and intermission numbers took place all with the help of LEDs.

Also present in the event were displays from DEWA of the new solar panels that will be used to a greener Dubai. This is in line with HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s ideals for alternative energy, a move that will put Dubai as one of the first adopting massive use of green energy. In relation to the outdoors, of course this is great because now we can live in city that is aware of its impact in the world and also it supports our personal belief of leaving nothing but footprints whilst we are in the mountains or in the seas. So think about it, we wouldn’t have the outdoors we enjoy in if we didn’t do our part to save the planet. And it’s only for 60 minutes of your time. Therefore, next time, shut off the lights and turn on your mind for a cleaner and brighter world that future generations could enjoy as much as we do now.

EVENT REPORT

Red Bull Air Race Season Opener

The first race of the 2016 Red Bull Air Race World Championship was even hotter than expected on Saturday, as Nicolas Ivanoff from France blazed through the pylons to victory in a close competition at Abu Dhabi’s famed Corniche.

Battling for the early lead in what’s setting up to be an especially fierce title battle over the eight-race season, Ivanoff’s time of 00:58:550 was just enough to clinch the top step of the podium ahead of Matthias Dolderer of Germany in second place 00:58:660 and Francois Le Vot of France in third - 01:02:281. With the retirement of 2015 World Champion Paul Bonhomme, the title is anyone’s to seize, and the heat was on at Abu Dhabi’s sizzling shoreline.

Unpredictable winds and a challenging racetrack put the lineup of fourteen of the world’s best pilots, including three former World Champions and two charging newcomers, to the test. The challenges will continue across six more countries before the points are tallied to crown the 2016 World Champion of the ultimate motorsport series in the sky at the season finale in Las Vegas, USA this October.

EVENT REPORT

Yas Marina Goes Sideways

The local royals of slide battle it out at Yas Marina Photos Supplied By: Drift Allstars

Drift Allstars kicks off the 2016 GP season at the Yas Marina Circuit, UAE. 10 international drivers from across the globe will touch down at the Yas Marina circuit in the United Arab Emirates on April 7-8th to do battle under the lights against the best drivers in the Middle East for the opening round of honors of the 2016 Drift Allstars GP Series. This will be the first time the region’s drivers will do battle against some of the biggest names of the sport. Combine this with the current explosion of the sport across the GCC region and this event promises to be a huge boost for the sport as it evolves into the fastest growing and biggest motorsport in the Middle East. Yas Marina Circuit, famous for hosting the final round of the Formula 1 series, V8 Supercars and International GT racing will

be specially adapted for what is shaping up to be the biggest International drift event to hit the region so far. Niall Gunn added “Kicking off at the Yas Marina Circuit is a dream come true. The Abu Dhabi Drift GP season opener is the perfect fit for Drift Allstars as we kick off our new international series which goes across three continents this season. Hailed as the ultimate drift circuit on the planet it’s going to be one of the main highlights of the 2016 season, utilizing this world class facility and combining live music and entertainment as part of the show. We cannot wait to see a star studded lineup of international drivers battle the best drift drivers in the Middle East”. Going against the international drivers will be a host of the top professional drifters from the region who will be aiming to continue their undefeated record against international drivers. Ahmed Alamri of the UAE will be fighting for the national pride as the reigning Drift UAE Champion. Ali Makhseed, rising Kuwaiti superstar will be leading the charge from the north of the region after early season wins.

Along with a man that some say is one of the biggest stars of the season, Ahmad Daham - he is one of the most successful drivers from Jordan and will want to step it up and take his chance to battle the big names. Abudhadi Alqatani will be leading the force from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Hometown heroes Sultan Al Qassimi and Khalifa Al Nahyan will also be carrying hometown honor as they both make their 2016 international debuts on the world stage. The action kicks off at 18:00 on both Thursday 7th and Friday 8th of April. An extensive retail village and entertainment area will be run on the Oasis of the North stand. For the first time the SBH Auto Collection will be on show with 20 different car clubs coming together to showcase their vehicles in the confines of the North stand. Live music and entertainment will keep the fans on the edge of their toes over the duration off the action packed two days. With tickets starting at just 60 AED a record breaking crowd can be expected in attendance to see the battle ensue. Tickets now available at www.yasmarinacircuit.com.

EVENT REPORT

Urban Ultra Hajar 100

Who said there ain’t mountain in UAE?

Words By: Aida Othman Photos By: Urban Ultra

I hardly return for the same course. But the Hajar 100 by Urban Ultra in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates is different. Could it be the surrounding rugged landscape softened with wild flowers, and patches of green grass? Could it be the camaraderie among participants and amazing people behind it? Could it be because it’s the only single-stage trail run in the country? Whatever it is, I could not deny the wonderful feeling of being back on this unique land I call home. Getting There

After a delicious homemade gourmet lunch prepared by Margot (vegetable risotto with goat cheese and pine nuts), I took a lift from a good friend, Stephen Turner who was also participating in the 50km race. The journey was about an hour from Dubai to Marjan Island. Occasional wild camels were sighted along the journey.

Early Crack of Dawn – 4th of March

I had an easy dinner (instant mashed potato bought from Carrefour) and went to bed very early. After a good night sleep of six hours and breakfast (a banana and Pure Nutrition Beetroot Endurance drink), I gathered for race check-in at 3:00 a.m. in DoubleTree Hilton, Marjan Island. Exchanging hugs and

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friendly chats with runners from Dubai Trail Running (DTR) filled in the time quickly. I got the “hey I know you from somewhere” moment several times – related to the Urban Ultra race video I was interviewed when I finished the race last year. I chatted with few runners as they asked what to expect on the course. After feeling confident with shoe choice, I passed on my drop bags: one to be retrieved later in Checkpoint Five and one for the finish line. Race briefing was presented before runners being transported by bus to the starting line which was about an hour’s journey.

Start – Wadi Bih, UAE Side near Jebel Jais

This year, Urban Ultra received a few International runners including notable runner from Jordan, Salameh Alaqra – a 2012 Marathon des Sables winner. As we lined up to start, I joked with Chad Lasater, asking if he will “try” to chase Alaqra. And just behind the front line-up was Clare Mullenger, my favourite female ultra runner as she stood representing the women. “Enjoyed the course like you always do”, I said. “I will stop at 50km if my injured foot could not carry any longer.” “NO, you do NOT have any injury”, said Lee Harris. So, that’s it I don’t anymore; bizarre what a positive affirmation could do to the brain instantly. Benoit Rodriguez said he had a better “excuse” than me as he recently completed a tough desert race in Abu Dhabi (and won the 100km Liwa Challenge). I looked back to find other runners. I saw Brendan Moloney as he was making huge claps that provoked others to follow. At 6:00 a.m. sharp we embarked on the journey while it was still dark, not like last year as I recalled; this time, 100km runners accompanied the 50km runners.

Checkpoint 1 A rather flat first 7.5km — as the sun was about to rise, the cobbled sky was in red and orange. No stop at Checkpoint (CP) 1. I carried on climbing the 1,000m Janas Mountain. Checkpoint 2 I enjoyed the winding climb till the top; I was glad to bump into Moustapha Mroueh (who finished 100km last year) as we did our first descent over rocky terrain. We then ran along the edge of a stunning plateau. When I reached CP2, there was Servatius Palmans from Hopasports by the time mat. I then rushed off to the wide open road without stopping at CP2. Checkpoint 3 Going downhill put unpleasant impact to my left foot injury. This was where the DTR gangs caught me: Gerard Foulkes, James Constable, Simon Williams, Tamaz Lorinz, and then Moustapha Mroueh (again). It was great to see them just when I needed some friendly familiar faces. At this point, the heat was very strong on me as we came down from Janas Mountain. I finished off two bottles of 500ml electrolyte

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and filled them in at Checkpoint 3. Grabbed a few oranges and dashed off to climb the second hill, Jebel Yibir. Checkpoint 4 I enjoyed the steep climbing but the heat took a toll on me. “You have no excuse since you’ve done last year”, a voice came from a bunch of guys I never met before this race as they passed me. Not liking what they said, I replied “Why don’t you go first, then you can tell me all about it at the finishing line.” I slowed my pace down when reaching the village at the top to save energy for the boulders section. The boulders were the prettiest part — very pleasant as the route was shaded by shrubs and paved with different shapes of rocks. There were thorny shrubs that put a tiny hole in my compression pants. Some parts require squeezing the body in between the gap of rocks. At one part I got to stop for a bit to talk myself out of climbing up a huge rock by using upper body strength and correct feet placing. Akira Shibayama, a Japanese runner who I finished together last year tried to help. “Calm down, you are not far, just need a little push and a few steps away”, said Simon Williams. His magic words really work on me. Over the boulders meant the 1,200m climb of Jebel Yibir came to an end, I then reached CP4 after a few more short hills on open track road. There was no sight of oranges cut. I’ve finished all my water supplies since the last CP (unusual for a camel runner like me), but only refilled the two bottles as I planned to refill the bladder on the next CP. Checkpoint 5 and 50km Finish I left CP4 with Helmuth Raukuttis, who gave me a lift in the morning. The downhill run was enjoyable because it was on tarmac, though it tired my knees. A couple of cars came up and down the hill exerting rubber fumes from braking too often. I bumped into one runner who was a bit injured but he seems strong in spirit to finish at CP5. I did not expect CP5 to be at a different location than last year, so I ran down the hill for a further 2km following Simon Williams. Hearing the bell and cheering put a special feeling. Seeing charming Kevin Bradford, lovely Zuzana Laukova and smiling Shaikh Mansoor – I was simply happy to sit and chat on a comfortable stool under canvas. Within 15 minutes, other DTR members finished their 50km race – amazing effort by Tamaz Lorinz and Moustapha Mroueh. After a serving of very delicious homemade minestrone soup by the organisers, two cans of cold

Sprite and Red Bull, a change of sock and shoes, top up electrolyte in 500ml bottles, fill in bladder, iPod shuffle on, and head torch on – off I went as Simon Williams reminded me to stop chatting. Just when I left CP5, I heard a name Jeremy being called on so I thought that must have been Jeremy Grigg from DTR reaching the finish line. Bravo! Checkpoint 6 Heading out for second part of race, I felt good and my leg felt strong. When Simon needed a bit of rest to get the food down properly, I said to him to catch up ahead. “That’s what I did whole day didn’t I”, said Simon. With this promise, I ran the entire of 14km enjoying the last hour of sunlight to only reach a very dim CP and for once second, I thought this was a self-service Checkpoint. Poor young volunteers who must be really tired from the early morning had a nap in the car. I woke him up so he can jot down my bib number and suggested to him to have a coffee. Checkpoint 7 The next run of 11.5km was pleasant because most of the trail route was parallel along the big road, so it was lit up by road lights. I felt a slight discomfort on my right heel, and I tried to fix the socks a few times. I stopped after realising a blister the size of two Tic Tacs appeared on my heel. Oh, no biggie – two bandages to cover it will do the trick. It’s just that I’m not a blister prone runner – so this was a first in any race. CP7 is the next best CP (after CP 5 that is). I was looked after by two young volunteers (Ahmad and Yusuf). I felt a bit hungry, but my tummy rejected the banana cut, so they offered a vegetable shawarma, which I took two bites of – not much at all. This energized me so I dashed out for the remaining half marathon. Checkpoint 8 A good 14km run towards CP8 and I made the effort to enjoy the night run adorned with bright stars. The music in my iPod shuffled from Britney Spears to Rocky movie soundtrack as I ran in a rhythm following the beat. I didn’t stop at CP8 except making sure I got the right direction. “Left on the road, then turn right after the tyre, no goat farm track”, said a friendly volunteer when I told that I got lost last year on the way to the finish line. While packing at CP8, I left it secretly and wished other runners at the back to come along too.

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Finish: 100km in Adhan As I ran along the main road, I bumped into a group of Emiratis who was having a Friday night walk. They pointed the direction to go straight ahead which I very much appreciated. Just when I thought I was going to finish the race, the nausea kicked in and the chance of throwing up was high. Then, out of nowhere Jojo Olivar appeared whom I last saw on top of Jebel Yibir. He said he rested at CP5 as he got a bit sick as he wanted to do it under 19 hours. I tried to move a bit faster but just couldn’t be fast enough in the condition I was in. The final route came with some rocks, some undulating terrain, and sand towards the end – not so straightforward. We arrived at the finish line with a good final sprint. I wanted to sit down right there and then, but was told to get a check in the ambulance. After 30 minutes, I lied down and after some little puking, felt better. My heart rate at 80bps - was normal though I felt it was too high. The friendly ambulance staff told me that apart from myself, they looked after Sami Alsaidi, the 1st winner with his cramping issue. A few other runners arrived later including DTR’s Simon Williams. I bid farewell to the organisers and we were then transported by bus back to Marjan Island.

Performance

All in all, I was very grateful to have finished the race without making the left foot injury any worse: 5th Female and 18th overall. I certainly enjoyed the 2016 race more than 2015 even though not getting a PB (eight minutes short from 2015 race). Plus, my legs could still run further – despite the nausea. Do this again? Absolutely — no explanation or justification required here. I felt happy on the trail and had great fun. Except the puking incidents though!

Till the next race,

#RunUltra, Live to thrive. Slice of Torch Ginger

EVENT REPORT

Paris-Sorbonne

SUP Race 2016

Words By: Keith Perena Photos By: Ihab Mokayed

Spanning two days and in two timeframes – day and night, the second Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi Stand-up Paddling Race saw an improvement over last year. Compared to last year’s single, 28km long distance race, participants were faced with three races: a 7km morning race in the mangroves for the first leg, a technical night race at the Beach Rotana, Abu Dhabi for the second leg and the final race was a challenging 33km relay race from the Beach Rotana up to the Yas Marina. The

introduction of the new distances and races proved to be a welcome and challenging introduction to the event this year. The participants ranged widely in terms of skill and experience, everyone from seasoned professionals to students of the Sorbonne competing for fun was present. The university had three teams to compete in the race and generous sponsors such as Naish and F-One also had their own teams. The former, Naish brought their best athletes along such as Jen Scully and Nick Yates of Live Love SUP fame, as well as Guy Welchman who has been an athlete with Naish for quite some time.

Day 1 - The Mangrove Leg

Starting in the wee hours of the morning, the Mangrove leg of the race was designed to warm up all of the participants with a brief yet challenging race. The race started opposite the Anantara Mangrove Hotel followed by the paddlers going along the Corniche and eventually taking a turn into the mangrove’s narrow passages to complete the 7km distance. The turn to the mangrove proved to be

challenging for the participants as they were presented with a narrow area where a lot of attacks took place. The first leg was won by the Sorbonne 1 team with a healthy lead of 198 points against second placer, Naish with 169 and F-One with 131. The race was followed by a sumptuous pizza snack close to shore. After the race, the organizers and the participants stayed at the Beach Rotana hotel which was provided by supporter, Nirvana Travel.

Day 2 - The Rotana Night Ride

At around 6:00 in the evening, Alex – the head organiser of the event started to call on the participants to gather around the board where the layout of the race was discussed. The night race is a first for the event and I can see the look of alertness among the participants. It was beginning to become dark in this side of Abu Dhabi,

despite the course being surrounded by the bright lights of the Beach Rotana hotel and the adjacent Cleveland Clinic. After orienting the teams, Alex then went down the jetty and ran the course alone to show the participants the direction of the race. It was at this time when the wind started coming in from the left and while this may help some paddlers gain some speed in the impending race, it may also prove to be a hindrance to them as the finish line requires them to paddle against the direction of the wind. The jetty was packed with every single team member, queuing up for their turn so much that the jetty tipped slightly sideways! Surprisingly, I saw some paddlers that are quite new to the night course and one of their members were teaching them how to

make their way around the course. Unlike the fun and adrenaline packed race in the mangroves, the night race seemed to be filled with silence — but this was changed quickly as the first batch of paddlers made their way along the course and everybody on the jetty began cheering for their teams. Intense paddling was exhibited by the top two teams – Naish and Sorbonne 1 as they battled neck to neck during the heats of the race. The night leg was one by Naish topping the overall results against Sorbonne 1. Guy Welchman, one of the Naish paddlers spoke about the course: “Brilliant race, one of the nicest sprints I have ever done – night time, beautiful scenery and overall great competition.”

Day 3 – Rotana to Yas Marina

Arguably, the longest and most intense leg of the race, at 33km, the Yas Marina leg was the ultimate challenge for all teams and paddlers. After a brief orientation at the hotel beachfront, the teams were then led to their respective team boats. The race was a relay race wherein every single team member had to paddle a certain leg of the race. The teams can select whoever they want to paddle when. As soon as the teams lay comfortable on their boats, it was our turn to board the lead boat that was tasked in overseeing the race. At the helm is Alex who directed the team boats and of course sent the first batch of paddlers fiercely clawing at the water with their paddles. It was very intense and a clear lead was secured by the Sorbonne 1 team with the Naish closely following. After the third turn, going through Al Reem Island, the distance was becoming more obvious as everyone tried to make their way through the narrow waterways of Reem Island and out into the mangroves. It was at this point when our boat made its way towards the other end of the mangrove where the team boats were waiting for the first set of relays. Transfers were quickly made and the action in the boats went two ways, one member dived in and swam towards the SUP board while the other member swam towards the team boat to be hoisted up by their respective support crew. After the relays, the new set of paddlers

made their way towards Yas Marina through a fairly accessible area of mangroves and land banks which saw another change of paddlers. By this time, the paddlers were extremely far from each other as they made their way towards the mangroves and through private islands with one certain island near Yas even having its own herd of gazelles which our skipper and Alex pointed out to us. Under clear skies and the wide open seas, the leading pack was nearing Yas Marina and of course the finish line. In the silence of Yas Marina with only the waving of the flags of the sponsor’s village being the only sound, the Naish team paddled their way to victory at the final leg, winning two of the three legs of this year’s Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi SUP Race. On the Marina, after everyone has crossed the finish line, a raffle ensued followed by the awards ceremony. Rounding up the top three were 1. Naish (904 pts.), 2. Sorbonne 1 (698 pts.) and 3. F-One (591 pts.) they all received luxurious prizes Final Results courtesy of the events Team Points various supporters. The day was closed off with Naish 904 a barbeque by the bay Sorbonne 1 698 with all the participants snapping photos as F-One 591 they regale in their own Frogs 545 individual victories for the Sorbonne 2 235 event.

Congratulations to everyone!

Sorbonne 3

Thales

nil

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ACTIVITY REPORT

UAC4X4 is 8 Years Old! Words + Photos By: Mahadi Ahmed

After successfully celebrating its eighth year, the UAC4X4 is one of the UAE’s homegrown 4x4 groups most comprised of residents within the region. Their mission is to provide a safe entertainment environment. They are a non-profit club that has an emphasis on sharing good experiences to those who join in on their rides; they believe in the idea of entertainment and experience without limits. The team was formed in 2009 and since then, they have strived to cope with the increasing number of cars owners and club members, putting in mind that they have to make continuous development and reach the highest levels. In January 2010, the iFJ Adventures Team was formed, and joined the Emirates Motor Sport Federation (EMSF) in the same month. Due to their rapid growth, they had to be a separate club devoted to all kinds of four-wheel drive vehicles. This was as a result of their long adventures under the

umbrella of iFJ Adventures Team, which was at first confined to the owners of a Toyota FJ Cruiser. The club then extended to include all kinds of four-wheel drive vehicles and adventures lovers within UAE and from that day on, they became known as the UAE Adventures Club (UAC4x4).

Currently, the UAC includes four teams:

• iFJ Team for the owners of a Toyota FJ Cruiser • i-Off-Road Team for the owners of four-wheel drive vehicles • i-Explore Team for tours and explorations • i-Dive for deep sea diving

Achievements

The team has managed to achieve a lot of distinct success stories by the grace of Allah, and the cooperation showed by the Club members, including: • Organizing the biggest gathering of Toyota vehicle owners, breaking a Guinness World Records of most Toyotas gathered which was made by Britain with 223 Toyota vehicles, as we succeeded to gather 257 Toyota vehicles. That event was under the umbrella of the UAE Awafi Festival celebrations held in December 2011. • Celebrating the UAE National Day, several marches were organized through the seven emirates in November and December 2011. • Holding an off-road march in sand and rough land from Ras Al Khaimah to Abu Dhabi in November and December 2011. • Organizing the Emirates Rally tours in cooperation with EMSF. We are inspired by the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in his book titled “My Vision”: “We don’t wait for an event until it happens... We make it!” Other that that, our goals can be summarized in the following main points:

Entertainment: creating amusing atmosphere by organizing amazing and interesting rides all the time all over the year. Explorations: Exploring, reaching and discovering new areas inside and outside the UAE. Acquiring Skills: Desert driving is not limited to a certain segment of the community, which is the youth. Now, all people can enjoy such interesting hobby with us safely. Training: Providing the required training courses for the new drivers at sand and off-road areas within an annual training plan. Safety: Safety criterion were developed as per the highest international standards with regards to safe driving. Do something new in your life, and don’t miss the chance to test your driving skills. Check out more of their club’s adventures at www.uac4x4.ae

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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

Part 3: Encounters with the Sudanese Bedouin Words + Photos By: Will Pardoe

On our crazy passage through the Gulf of Aden, we had fended off a pirate attack, fled from a hail of Yemeni bullets, battled Poseidon and been confronted by helicopter gunships and navy frigates. But we had escaped from all that madness, and now the treasures of the Red Sea lay before us. The reward would be a journey in time back to medieval Arabia. Having put four days of rough weather between us and the Yemenis, we finally reached the respite of southern Sudan. Exhausted and thoroughly beaten, we pulled into a large bay at midnight. Bedouin camp fires were the only flickering lights. The anchor fell away into darkness, leaving us in the quiet bliss of safe shelter and still waters. Sunrise unveiled a landscape of soft golden dunes and tinted mountains. Bedouin women were collecting clams in the shallows, and their rhythmic singing drifted out to us on the breeze. Every now and then, men on camels would ride around the bay, laden for market. There is something majestic and timeless about the Arabs, and here we found ourselves in their ancient land.

First Encounter

We lowered the dinghy and made our way to shore, as a Bedu was striding past on his camel. He disappeared behind the sands, and by the time we had dragged the dinghy over the shallows and I had reached the top of a dune, I saw him far off along the opposite lake shore. I wanted to talk to that man! So I set off running, staying conspicuous

along the top of the dunes so I wouldn’t run up on him. With the trigger-happy Yemenis still fresh in my mind, I was aware that this was a true Bedouin and I was a stranger in his territory. I ran nearly two kilometres catching up with that energetic camel, and as I drew close I kept a good distance to his side. Finally he heard my call, but didn’t stop, so I kept a keen eye for a raised rifle or threatening gesture. I waved to him, and he raised his hand in greeting. Good - so he wasn’t

going to shoot me, and I could approach. He steered his camel to a clear ground for our meeting, then slid nimbly from its side and stood waiting. It was a vision straight from Lawrence of Arabia. “A’ salamu alaykum” I said - peace be upon you. And he returned with a more flowery and religious reply. His name is Salem; an older man, with kind eyes and friendly wrinkles. I ask him where he’s going. “The souk”, he says, gesturing to the far mountains. His camel is laden with an empty oil drum, plastic jerry cans and a bag with fabric scraps and a football poking out the top. I figure these are treasures of the sea, but my mind wanders to this far-off souk in deep-south Sudan. I want to follow him to this magical market, where Bedouins arrive by camel to bustle and barter for goats, fish, fragrant spices, and old footballs to take home for their sons. He stands proudly by his camel as I take a photo, and as we part, he smiles at me a little bemused - I had run a long way just to meet with him. He leads the camel on a little way, then draws his head down and mounts the hump. As the camel lurches to its feet, raising the Bedu on its back, they become a timeless Arabian image. It feels like seeing a knight in medieval Britain. He turns, smiling, holding his hand up high, and they stride off along the shore, towards the souk.

Lobsters and Falcons

The following day we decided to try and trade with the women for their fresh clams. Something other than canned food for dinner sounded appealing, and maybe we could offer them a little variety in return. We put some concentrated juice and canned pineapple in the dinghy and headed for the shallows. As we neared, two men on camels rode out from behind the dunes on their way around the bay. Rather than intrude on the women, we decided it best to speak with the men first. They saw us approaching, so they dismounted their camels and sat down on the beach to wait.

Their names were Salem and Nafeh, and after our introduction, I asked (in Arabic) what the women were catching. Conch, they said, but it would take a lot of work to extract a little meat. Instead, perhaps, were we interested in trading for their flour? Well, we had no need of flour, and having never seen pineapple they had no interest in that either. But they did want sugar, so we offered to go and get them some from the boat. By the time we returned, I was amazed to see they had a fire going. Ah... Arabic hospitality! The camels had been turned out to graze, blankets laid down and Nafeh was roasting coffee beans in the embers. Salem invited us to sit, and we shared around the curious pineapple while Nafeh continued with his coffee ritual; pounding on the beans with a tall mortar and pestle, pouring them into the small kettle and returning it to the embers. We chatted until it was brewed, and Nafeh poured out two shot-sized cups, half filled already with sugar. Salem, being the elder, offered them to us first. It was incredible coffee – strong, and fragrant, with hints of wood smoke, far-off souks and camel caravans! I met Salem and Nafeh again a number of times during our weather hold in Marsa Navarat. They caught us a mother lode of lobster for 100 AED, which we lapped up with garlic butter. On our last meeting, when I saw them waiting on shore preparing coffee, they had with them a falcon. I bought the two fish they had caught, but they insisted that I take the falcon as a gift! They seemed quite disappointed that I couldn’t take it on the boat; and so was I.

coral-brick merchant houses, which were once ornate and balconied, but are now slowly crumbling, or have already fallen into ruin; the lower floors have become makeshift restaurants, bakeries, and goat pens. Wooden coffee shacks host friendly faces who sit together sharing the news, playing dominoes and smoking shisha. In the wooden bazaars, men can still be seen carrying long-swords - but they also carry broad smiles and big welcomes. It is a quiet town, apart from the donkeys, and the Imam calls from the minaret for Friday prayers. Though time had stopped in Suakin, we eventually had to move on. It had been incredible to see this ancient life undiluted by the modern world; it was the treasure that we had fought pirates to discover. And Sudan hadn’t given up all her treasures yet... ...to be continued

Time and Tide

The winds finally calmed and we continued on through the Middle Ages, navigating between tight coral passages to reach the ancient port of Suakin. As far back as Ramesses III, this island town had been a central hub for Red Sea merchants, trading in slaves, ivory, gold, and gems. Thousandstrong camel caravans would set out from Suakin with great fanfare, distributing European and Asian imports into Abyssinia (present day Ethiopia). It faded from greatness when the British built Port Sudan as its replacement in 1906. Combined with the last 20 years of international embargoes on Sudan, Suakin has lingered as a relic of times gone by. Donkey-carts are the main form of transport, hee-hawing through the dirt streets. Dusty alleyways wind between the

OUTDOORUAE

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE

The Kili Quartet Act 1 - Altitude, Agony and Age

Words + Photos By: Ben Thompson

Ask anyone about Mt Kilimanjaro and a range of responses fly in about celebrities that made it - Cheryl Cole/Fernandez/whoever next, Chris Moyles and Fearne Cotton to those that did not, including Roman Abramovich and Martina Navratilova. Of those that did make it many (including Jessica Biel) have stated that it is the hardest thing they have done. It is quickly clear that ascending the highest mountain in Africa and the highest freestanding mountain in the world is going to be no walk in the park.

Kilimanjaro is climbed by a lot of people every year and is on many people’s bucket list but it’s still a huge mountain so as a group we are increasingly concerned at the enormity of the task ahead. Collective wisdom is that it’s the speed of the ascent on the heavily trodden five-day Marangu route which often catches people out with Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) so therefore we decided to follow the slower and less visited Lemosho route taking us five days. Famous UAE explorer Adrian Hayes remarked that “Most guidelines recommend 500 metres max elevation per day; on Kili you are twice that. I got the worst AMS I’ve ever suffered on a mountain.” Suddenly the full scale of our fund raising walk up a mountain has just got a lot more real. Lemosho, a relatively new route, is preferred by reputable operators due to its beauty, remoteness and success rate. In short, it maximizes the chances that a climber will have of reaching the summit, and enjoying the overall experience. For three geography nerds and Neil, however, the temptation to go from the equivalent of the Equator to the North Pole Final destination- Uhuru

Ben Thompson

in terms of scenery diversity and climate is too strong to resist so we have set about raising money for the Upendo Children’s home in Moshi whilst getting into peak fitness. The team consists of four individuals; Sancho Barcia, a seventeen year old student at Repton School Dubai. Michele Longhi, a fellow student of Sancho’s. Ben Thompson, a Geography Teacher at Repton School and finally Neil Davies. Our chosen charity is The Upendo Children’s home and it is a non-profit orphanage located in Moshi, Tanzania for local children. Some of them lost their mothers during delivery, other newborns were left behind in the hospital and others were abandoned on the streets. A group of caring nuns known as the Missionary Sisters of the Precious Blood, along with groups of volunteers, provide the children from infancy onwards with food, shelter and love, as well as basic education. Baby food is expensive in Tanzania, thus making it impossible for many families to take care of a baby whose mother has died. Many local children born into poverty do not receive any education because their

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Origin with pride. g a l F t rs m Custo ional colou ith excellen.

Sancho Barcia

families are unable to pay for it, let alone pay for their livelihood. In our quest to help the Upendo Children’s Home, two members of the team, Michele and Sancho, will be volunteering for ten days in the orphanage, teaching basic maths and English, caring for babies and disabled children and assisting in local construction work. Spending 24 hours a day, seven days a week with the children will give Sancho and Michele a real taste of what

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Lemosho route

it’s like for the Sisters of the Precious Blood that work there. In order for this project to be possible, we rely on your support, and the children rely on your support. You can find more information about this at the end of the article Currently we have received a large corporate donation from Hi-force Hydraulic which together with smaller individual donations mean we have 25% of our intended 40,000 dirham target raised. Our training for this expedition has already begun as the Lemosho route is approximately 70 km/42 miles from gate to gate. It is designed for physically fit people with some hiking experience. Sancho and Michele are keen runners and cyclists with two triathlons behind them this year, Neil is increasing his running distance this week and Ben is following a plan designed by “Freeletics” — the aim being to increase our VO2 max and follow in the footsteps of Jessica Biel preferably, or as a last resort, those of Chris Moyles.

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From Left Michele, Sancho, Ben and Neil

The Kili Quartet is composed of Geography teacher Ben Thompson, students Sancho Barcia and Michele Longhi and Neil Davies on a quest to climb the highest freestanding mountain in the world. Their journey sees them preparing for the fateful climb as a group of friends for the cause of helping children in Tanzania as well as teaching them math and English. To support their cause visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/upendo-childrenshome-fund-raiser or follow the climb at www.facebook.com/uchkiliclimb

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The First Trip Words + Photos By: David Mailland

I managed to get some of my line back when the aerial ballet started again. I felt the fish accelerate and to start out a series of stunts as spectacular as it was stressful. From the corner of my eye I saw our guide twirling across the boat to grab the net. This magnificent duo stopped thirty seconds later - which seemed like an eternity-when he managed to catch the fish in mid-air. The choreography was completed, a short intermission would allow us to try to recover the lure or rather what was left. The Guma Lagoon

Three days earlier, we landed in Maun, Botswana, at a small airport devoid of any architectural interest before joining the Guma Lagoon where the lodge is located. We came to Botswana, full of hope, to discover the fishing of the Okavango Delta at the end of the period of the famous â&#x20AC;&#x153;barbell runâ&#x20AC;? occurring every year in September/October. As a bonus, we had given to ourselves a secondary objective of capturing as many new species as possible, a classic challenge for the exotic fishermen. The schedule was prepared by Guy, the owner of the lodge: we would sleep the first nights at the lodge, fishing the surrounding areas before leaving for an expedition of several days in the wild delta. The first day generally allows us to analyze the battlefield. From the base camp, about forty minutes by boat was necessary to join the main river. The access is protected by a natural labyrinth of canals lined with papyrus. An army of crocodiles whose

breastplates glisten in the morning sun protects the few sandy beaches backed by birds looking like egrets. During the trip we met the other guards of the delta: hippos, large cylindrical submarines diving to our approach; majestic elephants crossing the papyrus to drink. Regularly, a sharp cry, preceded by a papyrus slam, hinted the hurried flight of a bird hidden in the lush vegetation. Then the boat stopped, bringing us back to the reason we were there. The guide has drawn our attention to the presence of seagrass, nurseries for baitfish around which the tigerfish were roaming: it is there that he recommended us to cast our lures. The bottom was smooth, sandy, cleaned by the current. We were captivated by the beauty of places, but in terms of fishing however this first day did not remain engraved in our memories. We had many attacks but unfortunately we lost all our tigerfish. In the evening at the camp a German angler who had been looking for the tigerfish for more than 40 years politely asked if he could join us for dinner. Listening to our story of the day, he willingly consented to provide us some advice. For example he recommended us to sharpen the hooks in order to optimize our chances: when the hook is sharp, it must stand on a 45° inclined nail. His second advice was about our rubber jigs. When he saw them he turned pale. Then he looked at us fixedly: “It is essential to remove the anti-grass brush jig here otherwise the tigerfish, will spit out the bait.” he said. We immediately cut off the brushes of our rubber jigs. These small details are worth mentioning here since they significantly improved our ratio of fish caught.

The following days were consecrated to the search of runs. As if we were hunting instead of fishing. The birds provide valuable clues as well as discussions with the rare, other fishermen. While we were the only human beings for miles around, there was that memorable day in the sweltering heat, when we discovered a foolish conglomerate of catfish attacking a wide bay, within which the baitfish were prisoners. We smelled the case thanks to the birds: herons, cormorants, egrets had moved in large numbers to participate in the feast. The furious tangle of fish tails allowed us to imagine the total chaos underwater. In the general confusion, we could see the biggest catfish crush smaller ones against the border, forming a narrow corridor, chasing the “bulldogs”, the names of baitfish they coveted. Tigerfish were watching from afar the operations as if they were reluctant to ally with catfish, on the lookout for bulldog survivors trying to escape. The show was wired for sound: we distinctly heard the snapping of reeds

through which rushed thousands and thousands of hungry fish. It was possible to catch tigerfish with almost each kind of lure in our box. At the end of the day, sweating profusely but always fresh in our mind through the excitement that we had have, unreal scores had been achieved, almost 100 attacks for each fisherman, 30 fish landed between 2 and 4kg. Note that in the frenzy our surface lures have aroused a great stir among kingfishers. When we used this technique, these birds sprang to evolve hovering above the lure ready to seize it as prey that they would then go eat on a branch or offer to their partner. Fortunately, no accident was regrettable on this trip. We had great fun with a fishing technique that we did not know at all. This is fishing for bream. The results are steady. Applying ourselves and listening to the directions of the guide, we caught on average a fish per hour per angler. It is also fun, in late afternoon, to look for shoals of breams: they love to gather in water lilies and sea grass. These relatively aggressive fish are then easy preys when seen waving to the surface. During the fight, the fish tries to go to the bottom and resists violently but it rarely wins. The average weight of tilapia is 1kg. 2kg are beautiful subjects; the camp record is 2.7kg. Guy likes to tell that it was established just a few years ago by an English lady whom it was the first day of fishing and the first cast. ...to be continued

OUTDOORUAE

LIFESTYLE

Outdoor Flicks Film: On Any Sunday, The Next Chapter (2014) Director: Dana Brown Starring: Robbie Maddison, Marc Marquez, Travis Pastrana, Roland Sands, Dani Pedrosa, Ashley Fiolek, Kenny Roberts, Doug Henry and James Stewart Jr.

The Culture of the Saddle Words By: Keith Pereña Photos Supplied By: Red Bull Media House

Finishing the film only a couple of days back, I cannot help but notice how it sometimes has to look like an infomercial. But then again, it’s only mere minutes so it’s doesn’t really kill the appeal and that can be left for some other discussion. The sequel to the successful On Any Sunday which was filmed back in 1971 and starred by a stellar cast which was led by none other than the King of Cool himself – Steve McQueen. This is one of the first departure points of the sequel. It is led by a much wider cast and everyone is leader as the film dissects the inner workings of the human fondness for motorized bicycles. The film’s first few minutes are nothing short of amazing as it gives the audience a 360-degree view of the motorcycle culture. It exhibited the likes of motocross, in freestyle, MX and even sidecarcross which is very popular in countries around the globe. It’s quite an educating experience to have since the film feels deeply researched and really intends to show the scope of how much we use motorcycles and the catch? This is only about

20 minutes into the film. The meat of the film is mostly about the various industries that work inside the world of motorcycling. Some use it for sport, some use it for charity and some even see it as the lifeblood of their country. The differences in the various ways people use motorcycles are amazing. As illustrated in the film, every single discipline is interconnected, for example – flat track racing has been honing future MotoGP riders over the years and this has even resulted in four MotoGP world champions! The interviewees in the film also stress the same fact and the audience can easily see this as they are shown flat track racers taking in turns

at a hundred miles per hour and then blazing through the straights at 130. Other fields include racing in the snow over a lake that has frozen over the winter and some outrageous stunts such as jumping over valleys, the Arc de Triomphe and mountains upon mountains. I think the film is not just about the many things we do with a motorcycle. It’s also about the culture and the community that we have allowed to grow within the field. The film reiterates this sentiment as the audience see riders just casually hanging out and talking to each other be it in a normal riding day or an actual professional race day. In the last parts of the film, we see this coming to a close as they enter a race track wherein nobody is above the other. They are all equals and they all share the same passion for taking their motorcycles out for a ride - as the title says, on any Sunday.

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APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Habitually healthy

Caveman Babies Words + Photos By: Chef Patrick Ikinofo

With the birth of my son happening last month, so many things ran through my mind. Now I have another part of me to take care of, to protect, to provide for in all essence of life and to ensure the healthy growth of my child. For the first year of your baby’s life, the benefits of a paleo diet should ideally come through the mother’s breast milk, Babies grow so fast in the first stages of life that a healthy eating mum with all the vital nutrients is crucial for the growth of your child. When babies are born, they don’t have a sense of taste and thus adapt to their mother’s eating habits from birth. Although as time rolls on and your bundle of joy gets bigger, the milk will no longer be substantial for growth although it is still beneficial for life and it is recommended to breastfeed for as long as possible, in today’s day and age that makes it extremely difficult, trying to juggle work, meetings, everyday household chores, spending time with your spouse etc. Most people don’t even cook for themselves let alone set aside a few hours a day to breastfeed their child. Everything has become a lot easier - it is all available as takeout, even baby food. But don’t be fooled, most store-bought baby food is usually extremely processed that contain starchy fillers, added sugar and high amounts of sodium, after sometime of feeding your baby with this sort of poison, you find that your child may become hyper

active, restless or aggravated. And you might think something is wrong with them, but in fact there is something wrong with their diet. As a chef I have an advantage on how to prepare food suitable for everyone but I’ve never really thought too deep in preparing baby food, I’ve done it before as I come from a big family where that was a part of life. But since I started working as a Paleo chef, and knowing the benefits of this type of lifestyle, I have started to think of suitable, healthy, organic foods that are balanced and nutritious that I will feed my baby later on down the track. Or maybe even your

baby if your time is scarce. Interested? Let me know. There are different types of foods that can be pureed and given to your baby which are balanced, healthy and tasty, instead of rice and oats that don’t have any health benefits at all. Making homemade broths to puree the vegetables or using breast milk to blend up bananas and avocados is also a good tip I’ve read about, ensuring that the source of your produce is reliable, organic and totally natural. That’s the important part. No use putting in all the hard work to cook and be healthy then fall short on the most important factor - the ingredients. I don’t see a point in adding a recipe as baby food doesn’t need much explanation as long as your ingredients are fresh organic, free range, grass-fed and 100% nasty free that’s what matters the most.

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

OUTDOORUAE

Natural History LIFESTYLE

Does Snoopy Snorkel?

Words + Photos By: Dan Wright

Well the answer to that question is actually “not as far as I know!” However you can get a glimpse of Snoopy in his classic pose lying on his back with his belly in the air if you visit the Dibba to Kalba coastline. The famous Snoopy Island is a great place to take your family snorkeling and has everything from easy introductory areas to more advanced places to explore. The island is easily accessible from the free beach on either side of the Sandy Beach Hotel but if you want to combine your trip to see the underwater world with a nice lunch, a few mocktails and some beach relaxation then the hotel is an ideal base camp for you and your family for the day. Depending on how high the tide is you will see that there is a difference in how deep the water between the shore and the Dan using fins to tread water

Practice in the pool with small children to get used to the water

Safe basic kit is buoyancy aid mask and snorkel

island is but one really key part of swimming here is that we want to encourage you NOT to stand up. This is because the coral is very delicate and any time you stand on it with fins or water shoes you risk damaging the tiny creatures that make the coral. In fact if you snorkel over these beautiful corals you will notice that there are tiny little plastic markers with numbers on them attached here and there. These are growth markers and the people who study the coral population of this coastline use them to chart the annual growth of the corals. Coral is a great environment for attracting sea life because it is a living organism. If you snorkel around these underwater gardens you will see a multitude of brightly colored fish, turtles, puffer fish, rays, moray eels, sea cucumbers, sea urchins, starfish and the occasional black tip reef shark which is quite harmless to us as it preys on mollusks and sea crustaceans. Somehow despite the fact that black tips are harmless and despite the fact that I often go looking for them to photograph, I can’t help hearing that famous “Jaws” music in the back of my head - de duh… de duh… deduhdeduhdeduh DA! So what do you need to get you snorkeling? Well it’s pretty simple really. A mask and a snorkel is the least you need and you

Water shoes are an essential piece of safety kit

can add to this by getting; fins, rash vest, diving knife, buoyancy aid, underwater camera (or GoPro) and a whole range of other accessories all available from shops in the UAE like; Sun and Sand Sports, GO Sport, Adventure HQ, Decathlon and a whole range of diving outfitters and suppliers. You can also save yourself the cost of buying the kit if you are a beginner and you just want to try snorkeling to see if you like it by going to an outdoor activities company like ADAPT Adventure in RAK where a school group can spend half a day at Snoopy Island learning how to snorkel safely and then going on an exploration trip. Diving

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

Black tip reef shark

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Strangely tree-like coral formations

companies also offer similar experiences like Divers Down at Miramar Beach Resort and also many Dhow trip companies offer these groups’ sessions. Most of these companies will give you a buoyancy aid to wear in the water so if you aren’t so confident at swimming you can just relax and not worry about it or if you catch a mouthful of sea water the buoyancy aid will keep you safe and afloat whilst you cough it all back up again!

When families or anyone goes snorkeling there are 10 key safety points that they need to consider:

1. Stay in sight of the shore so you don’t get into too deep water and insight of the other people in your group. 2. Make sure you know if there is a rip tide or strong current in that area that can pull your out to sea. 3. Drink lots of water (you can even tow a water bottle with you) as your mouth gets dry from using the snorkel tube to breathe and the sea air will dehydrate you. Make sure you have water on the beach waiting for you when you get out. 4. Use waterproof suntan lotion especially on the back of your neck and legs which are exposed to the sun. 5. Make sure people know you are out there and don’t go alone. 6. You can tow a small body board or inflatable ring or small dingy to make sure you have a place to rest and to store your suntan lotion and water. 7. A rash vest (especially with sleeves) and long shorts will protect you from small jellyfish and other stinging sea creatures which can cause rashes on exposed skin. 8. Make sure you wear water shoes or lightweight trainers or wetsuit boots or fins so if you do have to stand up for any reason then your feet are protected from poisonous creatures such as the very well camouflaged “stone fish” (named because it looks like a stone!) or from sea urchin spines. Sea urchins are everywhere and the segmented spines Clip a water bottle to you to keep hydrated, fill it three quarters so it floats

Look a sea cucumber

are very sharp and will snap off in your foot but get embedded and fester and can make walking very painful for a few weeks. 9. Carry a bottle of vinegar with your towel on the beach so that if you do get a jelly fish sting the acid vinegar can help ease the pain of the sting. 10. DON’T touch anything. There are lots of poisonous things in the sea so if you can’t recognize what’s safe and what isn’t then just assume that everything isn’t safe! Snorkeling is a great way to spend a couple of hours immersed in warm water (especially in the Middle East, perhaps not in the UK!) floating around lazily watching fish and the underwater zoo go by and once you’ve paid for the basic kit it’s also FREE! Good places to go are of course Snoopy Island but you can also swim along beaches or follow coastal defenses like Groyns out to sea and back or swim along Corniche waterfronts. In the Gulf side of the UAE there are several locations where the local government has sunk old boats and cars or shipping containers in shallow water to form manmade reefs and these attract a multitude of fish and Moray eel

Highly camouflaged cuttlefish

sea life. On the Fujairah side you have the Indian Ocean which is famous for snorkeling and diving and here you can often be lucky enough to spot; dolphins, turtles, sharks and the elusive but beautiful, gentle giant of the sea - the whale shark. Snorkeling is fun but you need to take it seriously and understand that any activity connected with the sea is inherently dangerous. Follow safety signs you see on the beaches and obey the instructions of life guards and listen to the advice of other people. Enjoy this easily accessible sport but stay safe!

Using safety boat to rest

Dan Wright is a freelance Wilderness Guide in the UAE and Asia. He has a degree in Environmental Science. Dan has been on several International wildlife and exploration expeditions with UK Radio stations and writes for a range of publications in Asia and the Middle East. His wife is the former Nepal National Mountain Bike Champion, Nirjala Tamrakar. They live in Dubai with their son Percy and spend all their spare time exploring the UAE!

OUTDOORUAE

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Words By: Anna Roberts and Ellen Roz

2XU (Two Times You) 24/7 socks are ideal for those who sit for long periods of time during travel or at work, or even those standing on their feet all day when decreased circulation can cause swelling and fatigue. Graduated compression improves circulation to counteract this for fresher feet and legs throughout the day. Here, passenger and pilot put them to the test.

“As a New Zealander living in Dubai, the majority of flying I tend to do is long haul, which means sitting in economy for 10-hours plus. I’ve become a pretty consolidated traveller, but these 2XU 24/7 compression socks have found a new place in my carry on. In the past I’d continually struggle to be disciplined in flight - walk around and stretch, but often no matter how hard I tried to keep myself moving it wouldn’t help the feeling of tired, achy and puffy feet. However, now I can walk off a flight feeling light on my feet. The socks fit easily in my on-board bag and I do not have to worry about changing my entire outfit when I get on and off the plane”, said Anna Roberts. “Coolmax is incorporated into the foot bed for moisture management, so they don’t make my feet sweat at all and they feel great thanks to the added cushioning on the heels and balls of my feet” she added. First Officer Ellen Roz found the socks restrictive and warm at first, but in the end was won over by the obvious benefit of reduced swelling. “I’m not used to wearing high socks that feel tight so at first I didn’t feel comfortable in them, but when I wore them again on a night flight I noticed a difference. My feet weren’t so swollen and usually they swell a lot when I don’t move much on a long flight. By the fourth flight I was used to them. I’ve tried different compression socks before and couldn’t bear them for more than an hour, but the 2XU 24/7 socks I could wear for the whole duration of my flight. I give them an 8/10. I really like them on night flights, where I can see and feel a noticeable difference in reduced swelling and fatigue in my legs and feet.” So, whether you sit for long periods or stand on your feet all day, 2XU’s 24/7 compression socks will improve your blood circulation, revitalising your lower limbs and feet. Say hello to your perfect travelling companion!

Product Features:

• Coolmax yarns in footbed - wicks sweat from the skin to the fabric exterior • Greater padding to heel and balls of feet • Seamless linked toe cage

2XU 24/7 Socks, 170 AED from GO Sport, Adventure HQ and Beyond Fitness.

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PRODUCTS Jobe AERO Inflatable SUP 12.6 Package 4,945 AED (before 5,495 AED)

Available only at Al Yousuf Motors across the UAE With limited width and hefty volume the 12.6 SUP breathes discovery to the core. This is the ultimate companion to smoothly paddle great distances and explore every canal, river or wherever it might take you next. Equipped with two slipknot bungee systems you’re set for the day and freely bring along whatever you like. This SUP board includes an 8’’ inch single fin.

1,600 AED

Available at Revolution Cycles Dubai and all leading bicycle retail outlets within the UAE and GCC The Kéo Blade 2 is a more reassuring, more stable, lighter and more powerful pedal. Its design completely integrates the blade for better aerodynamics.

Specifications: • Length: 12’6 • Width: 30 • Thickness: 6 • Board volume: 317L • Recommended Rider Weight: Up to 120kg • Board weight: 9.3kg

Features: • Integrated carbon blade spring design featuring an aerodynamic profile as well as quick and secure clip in and clip out. • Aero profile. • Very large and wide pedalling surface. • Permanent cleat stop contact. • New 13mm stack height. • Very light : 90g (248g the pair with cleat and hardware). • Three cleat release resistances: 12/16/20. • 100% made in France. • Quick and secure cleat entry/release thanks to the blade. • Maximum power transfer thanks to the new pedalling surface and stack height. • Great foot support thanks to permanent cleat-stop contact whatever the pedalling angle.

BH Quartz

Lum-Tec B19 Bronze

Available only at Revolution Cycles Dubai

Available at Instagram: @almekshah Facebook: www.facebook.com/almekshah Mobile: +971 55 8008829

Package Includes: • SUP bag • Orange anodized aluminum paddle • Double action air pump

8,850 AED

Why break the bank on a carbon, 10-speed bicycle, when you can get all this and more with the BH Quartz. BH carbon frames use finer composite materials and a greater number of carbon layers that are moulded with a higher level of compaction to deliver a level of sprinting, climbing, and cornering stiffness that exceed that of their Pro-Tour competition. Their precision moulding process enables maximum strength-to-weight ratio while tuning every aspect of the ride — nothing short of brilliant Features: • Full BH Carbon Frame • Comes in 10-speed Shimano Tiagra or 11 Speed Shimano 105 • Internal Cable Routing • Semi-Sloping Geometry Rear Triangle of only 406mm • 27.2mm seat post • Shimano RS010 Wheelset • Michelin Dynamic Sport Tyres • Weight: 8.5kg • Shimano 105 Disc Brakes

Look Keo Blade 2 TI

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3,800 AED

These watches are limited to only 250pcs worldwide and include lifetime pressure testing, seal cleaning/lubrication and timing adjustments. The Combat B series is purpose built to take massive abuse with special balance and movement shock protection and a curved lug profile that fits flush around the contours of your wrist. Features: • 43mm width excluding crown • 22mm lug width • 13mm thick • Weight on leather strap 107gr/3.8 oz. • Solid CuSn8 bronze case • 300 meters/990 ft. water resistance • LUM-TEC MDV Technology® • Ultra precision tuned 28,800 BPH Miyota 9015 Japan automatic movement with hand winding and hack feature • Calendar • Thick sapphire crystal • Double side clear anti-reflective coating • Threaded 316L Stainless steel caseback with sapphire • Screw-lock bronze crown with double diamond sealing system • Four straps included

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Hi-Tech for Outdoor Lovers Review of the new Osmo Gimbal and Camera Words + Photos By: Daniel Birkhofer

Action cameras got incredibly popular within the past years and you can now find them everywhere and from many brands. We followed the development of cameras and equipment with excitement, since these tools now allow us to get good, cinema quality shots (to be frank – it’s getting closer but we are still not there yet) for a fraction of the cost. One issue I always had and many of you will agree on is, to get smooth and steady shots in the outdoor environment. I think most of my action shots, I considered as useless after recording since camera movements or vibrations are so extreme that it was not even possible to stabilize them in post production. When I heard that gimbals - mounts with electronic stabilizers to remove or reduce unwanted camera movements - are available for actions cams, I got excited and wanted to get my hands on one of these devices. The choice fell on the new DJI Osmo since it is a turnkey solution rather than an additional equipment for the action camera. So the whole Osmo Camera and Gimbals is one set, with each individual part optimized for each other. The only thing you need is a smart phone which is

used as a screen, but since you run the DJI Osmo app on it, I still consider it as a turnkey solution. I will not talk much about the technical features; you can look this up in detail online. The camera is powered by Sony’s 1/2.3-inch 12-megapixel sensor that can record videos of up to 4K resolution — 4,096 x 2,160 at 24fps or 3,840 x 2,160 at 30fps/24fps, with a maximum video bitrate of 60mbps. If you want a smoother video, you can go up to 60fps at either 1080p or 720p, or even do slow motion with 120fps at 1080p. The camera with the gimbal and handle is approximately half a kilo of weight only. The Osmo comes with a carry case, battery, charger, phone holder and there are plenty of accessories already available like a bike holder with a build in shock absorber. The camera and gimbal also fits DJI drones (check compatibility). The battery last only for about an hour so it is advisable to get one or more extra batteries if you go outdoors. Now the big question, you might have and I had - does this magic toy really work? I saw amazing footage online and was not sure how well the camera will do in a real outdoor test. First of all, it does work and you can get amazing shots. It is actually quite easy to get started and when you power up the camera it gives you a short run through the options. But the camera is not that magical and can read the mind of a director, what shots he might want to have, so planning and the right use of the camera is essential. Algorithms

decide, which movement should be equalized, so you will face some problems if you go mountain biking in a very bumpy track with many sharp turns - the camera will have issues to determine where you want to go, so it is a bit of a gamble if the result is what you wanted or not but no matter what you do, the camera is smoothening out movements a lot. And to be honest and not too harsh - how many times will you try to attach a camera to a MTB while you ride an off-road rodeo. If you don’t go hardcore, and plan to have more straightforward movements e.g. just follow someone walking on a track, you will get amazing and steady shots. So if you know about the limitation of the camera you can make the most use of it to get great shots. Also the recoding quality is great so you can use it in your post production workflow. Soon you can check out some footage we recorded on our website. So the quick and straightforward judgment is the Osmo will be a permanent tool we will be using. Since this is also the latest development in the action cam industry I think we will see more and even better solutions soon.

2 6

To compare the Osmo to a normal action camera, we mounted both on a fatbike. The action cam footage was so shaky that it was of no use. The Osmo was also the same, not all footage was good but there were good, steady sequences.

What’s in the box: 1. Carry and back 2. Camera 3. Gimbal 4. Handle

5. Lens cover 6. Mobile phone holder 7. Battery 8. Charger (with cable)

The DJI Osmo Camera and Gimbal is available in the UAE through RCCorner.ae for 2,460 AED. For more information, give them a call at 04 335 7899

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PRODUCTS Silverback Slade 5 2,299 AED/QAR

1,100 AED (with heart rate sensor)

Available exclusively at GO Sport

Available at Adventure HQ and Jumbo Electronics

The Slade mountain bike range is a cross country platform that is designed to make the most of the 275 wheel size. This platform is great for shorter riders and for those who like the agility and stiffness of the in-between wheel size. The geometry has been tailored to bring out the best aspects of 275, resulting in a highly maneuverable, accurate and smooth ride. This is the perfect bike for the beginner mountain biker.

The M400 is a powerful running companion and daily motivator. 24/7 activity tracking records your every move, pushing you towards new heights. With GPS and the “Back to start” feature you can explore new running paths without worries.

Technical Specifications: Frame: 27.5” Trail, Butted 6061 Aluminium Fork: 100mm Travel, Adjustable Spring Preload Gear system: Shimano 7 speed Weight: 14.93kg

Features: • Advanced GPS: The M400’s built-in GPS keeps track of your pace, distance and altitude. • Water Resistance: 30m • Activity Tracking: The M400 tracks your steps, activity, sleep and calories 24/7, encouraging you to stay active every day. • Heart Rate Training: One of the most effective training methods. Take advantage of it by using a Polar H7 heart rate sensor. • Running Cadence from the Wrist: Keep an eye on your running cadence to improve your running efficiency and avoid injuries. • Polar Flow: Plan, sync and share your training using the exclusive Polar Flow online service and mobile application. All data is easily viewable. • Smart Notifications: See notifications from your phone directly on the screen of your M400. • Individual Targets: Set your own individual training targets and follow your progress towards them using Polar Flow.

Newton Running Fate – Neutral

Lum-Tec M53 Bronze

Available at Adventure HQ (Exclusive colourways)

Available at Instagram: @almekshah Facebook: www.facebook.com/almekshah Mobile: +971 55 8008829

650 AED

Perfect for: People who delight in the pure joy of running and want a shoe that elevates their experience. Likes: For every day training and racing, an all around go-to shoe. Ride: Versatile and balanced — the dynamic Newton P.O.P in a more relaxed package. Weight: 9.4oz Platform: P.O.P 2 Heel-to-toe drop: 4.5mm Features: • 5-lug P.O.P 2 platform. • Action/Reaction technology in the forefoot and heel. • Biomechanical metatarsal sensor plate. • Open ground surface EVA in mid-stance. • Durable S.H.A.R.C (Super High Abrasion Rubber Compound) outsole composite in forefoot. • Seamless engineered mesh upper. • 360 degree reflectivity. • Heel lace lock. 42

The Polar M400 - GPS Running Watch

OUTDOORUAE

3,700 AED

With only 300 pieces in production, the limited M53 Bronze is an epitome to both style and function with its elegant straps and black face on a solid bronze crown. Features: • 44mm width excluding crown • 24mm lug width • 14.5mm thick • Weight on leather strap 150g/5.3 oz. • Solid CuSn8 bronze case and crown • Brushed finish • Sapphire crystal with double side clear anti-reflective coating • Screw lock crown with double diamond sealing system • Threaded stainless steel caseback with sapphire window • 300 meters/990 ft. water resistance • 2 straps included • Brown leather strap. 24/22 size • Custom molded anti-static rubber strap. 24/22 size • Extra springbars included for fitting other straps • Precision tuned all Japan made Sii NH35J automatic movement with hacking feature. • Limited numbered series of 300

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Suit Up for your Next Hike Enjoy hiking in the Middle East with lightweight equipment from Columbia Words By: Daniel Birkhofer

Here at OutdoorUAE we get asked many times what would be the best equipment to go hiking in. There is actually no uniform answer to that question, since it depends very much on the area where you hike and even on your personal preferences. There are a few guidelines you can follow and Columbia is actually offering the full range of equipment you might need to start from scratch. In the UAE, we mainly have to consider factors like sun and heat rather than cold temperatures and rain, so sun protection is important. Apart from sun screen, it is always recommended to wear a hat or a cap. The Columbia Omni-Shade Titanium Ball Cap is exactly this and is comfortable and shades your face from the sun and keeps the fresh air flowing through. For the trousers, I generally wear heavy cotton trousers for hiking but especially now when temperatures rise, lightweight functional clothing is a much better option to stay cool and in style. The Titanium short is crafted from 4-way comfort stretch fabric with built-in Omni-Shield™ advanced repellency and Omni-Shade™ UPF 50 sun protection. For the top, the Men’s Titan Ice shirt takes my vote with its ultra light and cool layer that is meant to go the distance. This innovative men’s polo tee from the Columbia Titanium collection cuts weight and keeps you comfortable with Omni-Freeze Zero mesh inserts, which uses airflow to amplify the shirt’s innovative cooling affects. A zip-open collar lets you adjust your ventilation on the fly, bonded seams deliver chafe-free comfort and wicking technology pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you comfortable. Most importantly for any hike, long walk or trail run - in Kalba or in Ras al Khaimah’s wadis and mountains, is the right choice of your footwear. Usually I would always recommend wearing a shoe for hiking which has ankle support, but since we are facing very high temperatures in the UAE, I recommend trail running shoes since their soles are made for rough terrain but they are lightweight and usually have better ventilation than heavy

hiking boots. The Ventrailia Razor trail shoe is perfect for the UAE. It is a fully waterproof, lightweight and flexible shoe with welded textile and mesh uppers for maximum breathability, cooling and comfort. The Techlite lightweight midsole offers superior cushioning and high-energy return. Also more care should be taken while choosing your backpack. First of all you should decide on the size if you need a small day pack or maybe something bigger for long multi-day trips. 30-40L is a good size you can use for almost everything, even for short weekend breaks. A rain cover is always a good extra that you might neglect while you’re here in the UAE but if you travel, you can use it abroad or like me, I use it as protection if I check in my backpack as luggage so that the straps are not getting stuck or torn off on the airport’s baggage belts. The rugged Trail Elite daypack fulfils these requirements and has an aluminium frame, Techlite straps, is hydration bottle compatible

and has a whole set of features designed to make the most out of any hike. The mesh on the back ensures air ventilation which is great in the UAE. You also have enough straps and pockets to attach hiking poles, GPS or pack extra water bottles. There is a big choice at Columbia and other stores for your hiking needs here and abroad. But if you are not sure and need a starting point, the aforementioned equipment is a very good choice of high quality products suitable for the conditions here and will only cost you approximately 1,700 AED. The light weight and great ventilation of all the products is one of the main features to choose all or any of the recommendations. Keep in mind that buying a good set of gear is an investment for many years and worth every dirham spent. Get these quality equipment at any Columbia store in Dubai (Ibn Battuta Mall, The Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Dubai Outlet Mall and Mall of the Emirates) and Abu Dhabi (Al Wahda Mall) for the following prices. Titan Peak Short : Men’s Titan Ice™ : Titanium™ Ball Cap : Ventrailia ™ Razor Outdry® : Trail Elite™ 35L :

259 AED 249 AED 89 AED 399 AED 719 AED

Lum-Tec Watches Arrive in the UAE Photos By: Weigand Custom Watch

“Our watches are designed with feedback from watch collectors around the world”. The quote above is displayed proudly on the website of Lum-Tec. The watchmaker is known for their elegantly made, luminous watches. Some of which are tailor made to the specifications of their owners. Each Lum-Tec watch comes with hands and dials that are imbedded with MDV technology that is extremely visible in all light conditions — a perfect must-have for those that need to always keep track of time.

The company also prides itself on not breaking the bank despite adding a ton of features that can be expected in any of their models. These features include: • MDV Technology® Extreme luminous hands and dials. • 316L surgical grade stainless steel or tungsten carbide. • Thick top grade sapphire crystals. • Top grade anti-reflective crystal coatings. • Top grade straps or bracelets. • Titanium carbide PVD hard coatings on some models. • Large case designs. 38mm-50mm sizes. • Exclusivity. All watches are numbered limited editions.

• 100 meters/330 ft. minimum water resistance. • Full feature heavy duty movements. • Lifetime timing adjustments on mechanical models. • Lifetime battery replacement on quartz models. • One year limited warranty. • Highest grade packaging and display box set. • Design, assembling, testing, adjusting and quality control in USA. This level of bespoke luxury and functionality is now available in the UAE through Al Mekshah. You can check their contact details below this page.

Available at Instagram: @almekshah Facebook: www.facebook.com/almekshah Mobile: +971 55 8008829 44

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SIC Recon 11.4 SUP - the perfect companion Words By: Blake Stemm Photos By: OutdoorUAE

In a country where versatility is of the utmost importance, the SIC Recon 11.4 for me is the perfect companion. It is an all-round fitness/surf/touring/SUP board, which can be used in any type of water. When it comes to stand up paddleboarding or surfing, I would like a board that can do both. With the Recon, I am able to do just that. It has the width to assist with balance but not too much that it ruins the manoeuvrability needed to surf. The shape of the board is built that when it comes to surfing you have full movement back and forward on the board. It is also wide enough that you can stand up paddle on it on flat water for a beginner and on open water for a more intermediate/ advance approach. This isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a board that I would recommend to someone who has never done SUP before, due to it being slightly thinner than a normal board. It is however good for a surfing beginner as it has a little more stability than a Malibu. Furthermore it is also more suited to a surfer who prefers to longboard. For stand up paddleboarding, you want a board that has some stability, moves and handles relatively well in the water and is also fairly light. The Recon is light and easy to carry. Here in Dubai, a board like this is

perfect as it handles very nicely on calm waters like the ones near Riva Beach Club and Ignite Surface. It is just inside the Palm and the water is flat â&#x20AC;&#x201D; very comfortable to go for a gentle tour around the fronds or handles nicely should you want to go for a fitness, high intensity paddle. Out in the more open waters like Kite Beach, on a good day when there are no waves, the board handles smoothly. However, should the water be choppy and rough, the board becomes a little more challenging for its pilot. This is due to the width of the board, when it comes to standing on it and paddling during a small to medium swell it proves to become much more of a challenge. The padded non slip top makes it easy and comfortable to stand on for long periods of time, making it a great touring board. The width of the board is like that of a surfboard meaning it glides through the water much more swiftly and is easier for the pilot to paddle. I personally like this type of board as I can take it for a surf or surf paddle and at the same time I can convert to stand up paddle boarding. For someone who loves the water like me and spends a lot of time each week on the beach, this board is great. The only challenge I have with this

board is the transportation of it due to the length of the board which is the downside of every rigid board. The board: The SIC Recon 11.4 is from the SIC brand, newly launched in the UAE and is exclusively available at GO Sport stores across the region for 4,725 AED. About the author: Blake is an SUP enthusiast and Instructor at Ignite Surface. He is the Group Marketing Manager for Ignite Group and along with being a PT and Group Fitness Instructor. Loving water so much instructing SUP was the next logical add on to his career.

OUR EXPERTS

Dark Skies Challenge 2016 Words by: Marina Bruce Photos by: Participating teams

February 19th and 20th saw the annual Dark Skies Challenge take place in the Liwa area. Teams started arriving at Arada late afternoon on Thursday 18th, ready for an early start to driving on Friday morning. Another night’s camping was required on the Friday, before exiting the desert near Ghayathi on Saturday at lunchtime. Concept

I have always had a passion for long-distance drives – trips which involve spraying sand around for three hours. Covering 20kms or less is just not my thing at all, although I know many off-roaders just love them. A couple of years ago I dreamt up the Dark Skies Challenge to allow me to share my overlanding passion with my friends at Oasis Offroad; the inaugural event in 2014 was so successful it was opened up to external entries in 2015. Many UAE off-road clubs host challenge trips, each is unique in its own way but I believe this is the only team-based long distance challenge for amateur drivers. One team leader joked that I have more rules than the 1st Place Nature by Desert Hawks - nature

1st place action shot by Qatar Bowl Busters

1st place Desert Life by Desert Safari - Desert Life

FIA (Federation Internationale Automobile), but this is necessary to keep all cars safe – in three years we have had over 150 cars participate and with the exception of one recovery point which broke and caused damage, we have not had one single car requiring a police report; not bad for approximately 25,000kms driven purely on sand! One of the great things about driving on road in the UAE is that most main roads are lit, however that means it is really difficult to find a truly dark sky, free from light pollution. In the Western Desert, you find yourself so far from civilization that the night sky is inky black and dotted with thousands of stars, hence The Dark Skies Challenge!

The Route

Considerable thought was given to the course; firstly, it had to be in a very remote area where drivers could reach at least 100kms from the road, yet have an easy exit from the campsite in case of medical or vehicle emergency; the location also had to be far away from settlements so there would be no light pollution; the track itself had to be varied. 100kms+ of full on, technical dunes would be exhausting for all but the most experienced of drivers and I wanted to open the event up to intermediate drivers so they too could get a taste of desert overlanding. I found the perfect place in the west and northwest of Arada; the first 10kms of the course goes over large, tightly packed dunes, followed by 40kms or so of large dunes with

valleys in between. The next part of the route offers some respite as you cross dune lines which are orientated north-south instead of the usual east-west of Liwa, these are interspersed with wide plains. The final 20kms are through soft, white, technical dunes, designed to test both the driving skill and the mental strength of the participants! As if that were not enough, to gain some bonus KMs, the teams had to find “buried treasure” at a waypoint close to the straight line. I am always amazed how excited everyone is about finding their treasure, even though every expense is spared! The true prize in each box is a “get out of stuck free” card, some of which were played on the last technical section! The route always takes in one or two date plantations and in 2016 it was Al Shlahh Farm; teams had to locate a sign which said “you were at the farm”, except I neglected to tell them the sign was in Arabic. A few teams cottoned on and submitted some great team pictures!

The Teams

The DSC has a very good safety record and I attribute this to the high quality of the drivers and the rules put in place to ensure that we never wave four rookies off into the vastness of the Maghrib (western desert)! Each team is headed up by a driver who leads trips for their own club, or if they do not belong to a club, someone who can convince me they can take care of a convoy! The rest of the team is

1st place low sun by Desert Safari - Sunset

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1st place Stuck by Desert Hawks - Stuck

1st place Photoshopped by Knightriders Team-2. 7

1st place Teamwork by Desert Safari

3rd place Teamwork by Qatar Bowl Busters

Team Work by the falcons

made up of one intermediate driver, plus one advanced; the fourth member of the team can be either leader/intermediate/advanced. 2016 saw participation from five teams from Oasis Offroad (Desert Safari, Oasis Scorpios, Sand Drifters, the Xtrapajeeps and Wahat Ahzawiwi), Desert Hawks, Desert Raiders, Dubai Offroaders, two teams from UAEoffroaders (Highjacked Again and The Falcons), Jeepers (Jeepers Bigfoot), 2 teams from Knightriders (1 and 2), one team from Qatar (The Bowl Busters) and one private team (Snappy’s Sand Surfers). Each team had to be self-sufficient for the duration of the event, having to carry all their camping gear, extra petrol, firewood and food – our Friday evening camp was going to be as “far away from it all” as you can in the UAE!

Thursday Evening

Our first arrivals were the ones who had to travel the furthest – around 4:00 p.m. we welcomed a forward party of two cars from the Qatar Bowl Busters and soon after many others started to arrive. Each team was encouraged to go along the gatch a little and find their own private campsite with instructions to return to control to pick up their food (mixed grill) from the event control at around 7:30 p.m. The last team to make it to the campsite was the Falcons who had driven all the way from Dubai after work, hence their late arrival, and once they were settled for the night it was time for me to turn in and hope for good weather the next morning

Friday Morning

After the sandstorm which exfoliated everyone back in DSC 2015 (See OutdoorUAE April 2015 – Riders on The Storm) I submitted a special request for good weather and whilst Stuck by Desert Raiders

we were all grateful not to have a sandstorm, instead we had to deal with thick fog on Friday morning! For safety reasons the start was delayed until there was 500 metres visibility which meant that wheels did not start turning until 10:00 a.m., three hours later than planned. Once the teams were off I headed to the end point via the road and desert tracks, seriously wondering if anyone would make it before nightfall – one of the many safety rules in place is that there is to be no night driving, unless a team is accompanied by the sweep team – but amazingly, from around 4:30 p.m. onwards, teams started arriving! In fact 14 teams plus one sweep made it through in time, unfortunately the Highjacked Again team had a vehicle issue and with guidance and a little help from Sweep Two they were heading for the road via a sandtrack. Sweep Two almost made it to the campsite but tiredness was setting in and with their job done for the day they opted to remote camp a few kilometres from the rest of us.

Friday Evening

In an effort to bring everyone together in the evening, albeit for a short time, we held a quiz with a UAE/driving/sky theme and the teams all got into the spirit of things. One of our sponsors, the fantastic Southern Sun Hotel in Abu Dhabi provided us with a voucher as a prize for the quiz and Oasis Scorpios won it with an impressive score. I was amused at answers to one question – how many speeding tickets has The Desert Diva received in 30 years of driving – someone guessed 57! (The answer was one, caught in Liwa last year.)

Saturday Morning

After a relatively leisurely breakfast everyone was gone from our camp by 10am and I joined the rear sweep to get some proper desert driving in. The final 50kms should have been slightly easier than the previous day as there was a very easy route just to the west of the straight line; the last teams opted to go to

the east and there was nothing else to do but follow their line, going against the run of the dunes which was rather fun! The team with the shortest recorded track was the Desert Raiders, in second place Jeepers Bigfoot and in third place the Oasis Scorpios – well done to you all. There are no prizes for the fastest distance or indeed the shortest, instead all participants have the chance to compete for prizes in our photo competitions; the winning photos, along with a few of my favourites are printed here. We had great support from OutdoorUAE magazine who donated copies of Mike Nott’s guidebook along with a paracord bracelet for those who came second in the competitions. Our other sponsors for the competitions were Alcatel OneTouch GoPlay who gave us a smartphone to use for the event and extra ones to give out as first prize in the photo competition and also Coleman who donated cool boxes for those placed third. Our event t-shirts were kindly donated by Eastern Motors Jeep from Al Ain – a huge thank you to all our sponsors. The whole event would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our sweep teams; four winch-owning friends (Ian, Shaun, Alan, Katy and Chris) who are involved in the ADDC and/or Baja events - formed the backbone of the two sweep teams who were supplemented by two marshals from Oasis Offroad (Nic and Karen and Manhar and Melissa). An Emirati friend came along with three more cars to assist which meant we had more than enough cover to cope with any situations. I would like to thank everyone involved in the event; the teams - from those who came back for the second and in some cases third year to ones who entered for the first time; to our sponsors for providing fantastic prizes; and to the sweep teams and others who supported me; thank you all so very much – planning the 2017 event already! Desert Safari - Stuck

Action by Oasis Scorpio Nature by Xtrapajeeps

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OUR EXPERTS

Awesome Aquariums:

The Lost Chambers Words + Photos by: Jake Lyle

When it comes to Scuba Diving, guaranteed sightings aren’t a common occurrence, and divers can go years in search of a certain sea dwelling species, often with little success, but in artificial dive sites like the Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis The Palm, there’s no need for long and gruelling pursuits, or extended periods of tiresome waiting, as you’re instantly submerged in an underwater world built up with animals from thousands of different marine ecosystems from across the globe. The population density within the tank is mind blowing; it resembles some sort of artistic depiction of the perfect marine habitat, with thousands of busy fish, stingrays and sharks, going about their day. These artificial dive sites offer divers something that other dive sites fail to provide, and that’s the guarantee of a thrilling dive, surrounded by the same amount of animals it would take a diver 100 dives or more to spot in the open ocean. Although the habitat and surroundings may be man-made, the animals and their movements are perfectly natural. With a tank filled with 11.5 million litres of water, The Lost Chambers Aquarium can proudly call itself the biggest aquarium in the Middle East. What’s more, 85% of the

animals within the aquarium are sourced locally, showing the rich level of biodiversity that lies under the oceans in our very backyard, and most of what you can see in the tank – you can see it here in the waters of Middle East, making a good argument to go diving here in the UAE! That includes most of the sharks as well, the majority of which were picked up from Fujairah and Oman. Not all of the animals were sourced locally however, and the biodiversity within the tank can also be attributed to the international guests from the far-reaching corners of the Earth – like some of the sharks, who have come all the way from Hawaii. The population within the tank its truly global and incredibly diverse. As the volume of inhabitants within the tank is so large, as is the food required to feed them – one feeding for the animals includes a total of 450 kilograms of food. To put that into perspective, the average person eats only 2 kilograms of food in a whole day! Also on the menu quite regularly is garlic, which is mixed into the feedings on a set number of days. The garlic has the ability to kill parasites and prevent fish disease, making it an invaluable asset to the aquarium, as it keeps the

environment clean and the fish healthy. The conditions in an artificial dive site such as this are unlike anything you could encounter in the wild. This particular tank is able to say something that virtually no other natural dive location in the world is able to say, something that divers search for and hope to see all their lives, and that’s 100% visibility. Too often, dives can be made difficult, or even ruined, due to poor visibility, hindering your ability to appreciate the natural wonders around you, or causing you to miss the interesting creatures that swim by you. This problem however does not exist in artificial dive sites like The Lost Chambers. Everything and anything is visible. Floating on one side of the aquarium and looking toward the other, you’re even able to see the back wall (as long as dense population of colourful fish don’t block your view). As well, the aquarium is only 10 metres deep; this allows you to have a long and enjoyable dive, as the shallower the dive, the longer you can spend down on the sea floor. This maximises the fun and enhances the experience. Similarly, the current is gentle and it’s controlled by the aquarists who run the Lost Chambers, in

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order to simulate a natural environment for the inhabitants, making the dive comfortable and non-exhausting. Lastly, the temperature is a chilled 25oc, a comfortable and pleasant temperature, suitable for either a short or long wetsuit, with no special requirements. The conditions are virtually perfect, and will alone, ensure an incredible dive. Fortunately the conditions of the tank aren’t the only features that make diving in this aquarium a great experience, but the range of underwater species and wildlife that call this body of water their home are the true attractions. Colourful and tropical fish like the yellow bar angelfish, golden trevally, napoleon wrasse, oriental sweetlips and the yellow butterfly fish make up a large portion of the huge schools of fish that travel around the tank and swarm the windows, creating underwater displays that you can’t help but not take a picture of. And I assure you; their appearances are just as interesting as their names. Getting larger, the aquarium is also home to a number of stingrays, like the eagle ray, the cownose ray, and the honeycomb ray, who frequent both the aquarium floor and the water at mid-depth. Even larger, the shark species that inhabit the tank include grey reef sharks, zebra sharks, bowmouth sharks and giant guitar sharks. Putting all these different species together, plus a great deal more, it makes for a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. The scuba diving itself, in the aquarium is an unforgettable experience. Before the dive, whilst standing above the aquarium, on the edge of the steps into the water, I watched the surface, and it was vastly different to the surface of most oceans. Just under the top layer of the water, there was already a high level of activity, with small, colourful creatures darting back and forth, splashing water into the air. Larger creatures were scanning the top layer as well, with their fins jutting out and slicing through the surface as they patrolled the top of the tank. Moving down the steps, getting ready to dive down, there was just one problem. Resting on the first step in the water was a massive, pregnant stingray. Although there is very little danger with these creatures, as the aquarists clip their barbs (the stinger tails), like we cut our fingernails, so there is no possibility of a sting, but to ensure the safety of the animal, the dive guide ushered her away. When the path was clear, we entered the water. The clarity of the water was the first thing that blew me away; being able to see everything in front of me for tens of metres, it was wonderful. Then the residents in the tank began to investigate our presence in their home, first the small

fish, which would confidently swim incredibly close to us - some out of sheer curiosity, and others purely due to the interest in my shiny silver camera. Swimming further into the tank, making an effort to dodge the stingrays and avoid the large schools of fish, we began to reach the height of the activity. The centre of the aquarium had the highest density of sea life. Cownose rays, in groups of at least five, would circle the centre of the tank, bold eagle rays would cut through the middle, and the huge, dense schools of colourful fish would congregate in the centre, occasionally parting ways when something larger wanted to swim through. The largest animals in the aquarium, the grey reef sharks, patrolled the outskirts of the tank. They were shy, so it was difficult to get close to them, as they were careful to avoid us. Occasionally they would swim along the glass and we’d meet at an angle, allowing us to gauge their sheer size in comparison to us. It’s rare in the wild to experience a congregation of so many sharks, so it was certainly a treat to experience it here. Specifically, two of the female grey reefs were pregnant, exaggerating their size even further, making for an even more thrilling experience. As we spent longer in the tank, the sharks would get more used to our presence, and every now and again they would build up the courage to approach us. One of the sharks would decide they were going to investigate us, and it would swim from one end of the tank all the way to us, the groups of fish on it’s route would part ways and the shark would advance. It would slow on approach, getting a good look and a thorough examination, changing direction at the last second. Contrastingly, there were a number of animals that were much more friendly and willing to interact with the strangers in their home. Animals like the eagle rays and the zebra sharks would swim extraordinarily close, and inspect you, in the hopes that you would have food. It was a fascinating site to see, as the aquarist’s hand fed these animals, they would begin to swarm around the feeder, putting on a marvellous display. Excited stingrays would carry their enthusiasm onto you, coming close and flapping their wings around you, almost wrapping you up as

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they kindly asked for food. The atmosphere in tanks such as these is vastly different to anything I’ve experienced in the open ocean, and the frequency of animal encounters is exponentially greater than a natural dive site. It’s incredibly hard to beat the feeling you get when you’re in the open ocean, searching for something, hoping for something, and actually seeing it. It makes you feel privileged, and lucky, that this opportunity came about just for you. It’s thrilling and exciting, when the encounters you might have on a dive are unknown and undetermined – and that there is a chance of anything. But diving in an aquarium like The Lost Chambers, gives you a feeling not too far off that. Although you’re told what you’re going to see, it takes nothing away from the experience, it is still just as thrilling and exciting, and it offers you a frequency of encounters that is virtually unheard of in the open ocean. There is no space in the tank that is empty, the whole area is active and vibrant, and the only problem you might have, is soreness in your neck, from constantly turning around to take everything in. Diving in an aquarium is a unique experience, an experience that allows you to fit all of the best aspects of diving into a single dive, and The Lost Chambers Aquarium in Atlantis The Palm does it perfectly.

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OUR EXPERTS

340 Kilometres Nonstop across the Tropic of Cancer Words by: Nico de Corato Photos by: Mauro Grigollo

UAE resident Max Calderan set off on a 340km trek across the desert along the line of the Tropic of Cancer. The route, which is located in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and starts from the UAE border with Saudi Arabia up and ends up at the Omani border provided Max with the most arduous challenge he has ever faced. Being an experienced endurance runner and having completed several desert crossing and extreme running challenges, including running non-stop runs for 90 hours over 437km in Oman, he was challenged yet prepared to this run along the Tropic of Cancer. Other than these achievements, he is also the first man to cover 200km in 48 hours across Oman in 2007, where temperatures hit a record high of 56 degrees; also during the 2012 Ramadan, he ran 250km across the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt while fasting. Topping this all off is his 75 hour, 360km expedition across Saudi Arabia where temperatures peaked at a record high of 58 degrees.

Max just left one of the check points

Max wearing his guthra

This expedition, the Tropic of Cancer run started over the UAE border in Liwa and brought him across the desert to Oman. It was supposed to finish on the 21st of March, but due to some difficulties with the terrain, the run took more than expected.

Preparing for the Run

During this time, Max talked about his belief when it comes to preparation, he also shared with us his habits and conditioning to get ready for this challenging run. “When you prepare for this kind of crossing challenge, you need to get trained in three main areas: sleep deprivation, water deprivation and food deprivation.” Max adds that it is something he believes is critical if any athlete is to try this sort of activity. Talking about his habits, he adds: “I normally have three to four hours sleep. During my previous explorations, I slept five-seven minutes every three/four hours. In Oman two years ago, I went without sleep for 100 hours, just small naps. It’s very useful if you’re stressed.” I had chance to be part of the team which followed Max during this challenge as a videographer and media partner. During the 50

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Max on his route

challenge, I was with five other people in the support team: Mauro, the photographer; Albert; Ian; Steve and Kevin, each of them driving a 4x4 laden with medical supplies and nourishment while following Max along the route. We set up headquarters in Liwa at the Tilal Hotel, where we arrived the day before the start, on the 17th. After a light dinner, there was a technical briefing for last-minute details just to make sure everything falls into place. In the early morning of 18th we left from the HQ towards the starting point - at the border between Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi. It took a couple of hours; with first hour comprised of on road driving and the remaining 40-50 minutes was dedicated to going into the sand to reach the starting line.

Max Begins

At around 8:30 a.m. Max touched the net that indicates the borderline and proceeded with his challenge . The first few kilometres

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Following Max's footsteps

Checkpoint. Max has a small rest and food to recover

The net represents the border between KSA and UAE

were used for a final setup, with frequent stops and checks of the gear to make sure they remain intact. In these first few kilometres we are close by him, then we moved to the first scheduled checkpoint and while waiting for Max. A few minutes later, a heavy wind started to blow — not a proper sand storm but sufficient enough for us not to see anything without goggles or sunglasses. After meeting Max and checking everything is fine, we started driving to the next checkpoint and we soon realize that the sand in this area is very tricky. After the heavy wind that came, it became quite difficult for us to locate compact sand and inside the cars the concern to get stuck became prevalent. The fear became a reality as our support cars got stuck a couple of times and one of the cars even hit a dune. In the midst of trouble, we were assisted by experienced off-road driver Marina Bruce, who to my surprise also writes for OutdoorUAE! Thanks to her help, the

Tricky sands. Cars go on getting stuck in the sands

vehicle re-joined the team during the evening. With the hard part already over, we began to think about Max and how he is currently faring. In the beginning, I was assuming that there would be lots of spare time while waiting for Max at the checkpoints; instead, it sometimes took hours to cover a few kilometres and Max faced the same issue. During the evening we were forced to stop and camp overnight because it's not safe to move on this kind of terrain by car without sunlight. On the other hand, Max continued to proceed with his running. It began to hit me that assisting this kind of challenge meant solving several kinds of issues: punctures; broken or damaged car; to be sure to be in time for checkpoints or not to lose the track, to be sure where Max is or could be... But once there, the team also had chance to relax a little bit, have a nap, set up something, eat some food, or just to chat. Things started changing when the expected time of arrival got closer. Everybody is looking around to check any sign. Then we saw him approaching - in the beginning he was just a small spot. Then we realized that it's not a gazelle or a bunch... Max is coming! When he approached the checkpoint, everything changed. Nobody is talking, eating, drinking or smoking. We were all just waiting to hear his needs and to give him the appropriate support. The focus is on Max every second of the challenge – in the checkpoints and also in between them. In those moments, the atmosphere surrounding the temporary camp is like something of a ritual. Then he runs on - we look at him disappearing into the distance in the same way as he appeared. It was now time to catch up, we were careful not to interfere with him or to kick up sands on him. This balanced with our concern for dunes and other interferences. After the last checkpoint of the day, convoy stopped for the night, while Max went on and covered several kilometres ahead of us. For us it

Talking to Max few meters after a check point

meant an early morning start as we needed to detect and follow his track, until we see him and then we can reach the first available checkpoint after that.

Max Finishes

After one checkpoint and another, we continued to drive along the Tropic of Cancer. Initially we were supposed to take four days, but two more days were needed to cover the whole path. The last two days were even worse for Max, because of the overnight rain storms in the area. We waited for Max at Al Qu’a where the finish line was. The terrain for the final leg was very flat and all around us were several camel farms all situated around the small village. The final wait for Max was the toughest one – we were tired, worried, exhausted and soon enough, the minutes became hours as we waited for him to arrive. Then... we see him! He's almost running! I know adrenaline keeps you on in last kilometres, especially after a long challenge like this one. In the finish line Max smiles and has a word with everyone, as usual. We seem to be more tired than him. I knew about Max's challenge and I already wrote about them; but to see him in action was unbelievable. To achieve a challenge like this is not just a question of physical or mental training only — you need to have a big heart, and you have got it, Son of the Desert... But no, time to celebrate and rest. You deserve it.

Overnight camping. During the night Max run on while 4x4s have to stop

OUR EXPERTS

Women

n Wheels

Preparing for Life with the Pros Words by: Helle Bachofen von Echt Photos by: Usman Oluwaseyi, Annette McCusker and Pete Photographie

When I received the call in November, my heart skipped a beat. I have wondered many times what life is like as a professional cyclist. How much higher is their level over what we do in the UAE? How strong are these female riders? Is life really just train, eat, sleep, travel, race and repeat? The call came from Gerard Penarroya, Director of the Canadian female pro team SAS-Macogep-Acquisio. I froze — I didn’t know whether to feel excited, intimidated, scared, proud or just really happy. I had just received an invitation to join a pro team as a guest rider for eight stage races in California. At the time of the call, I had just recovered from an exhausting and tough season of racing. The harder I had tried, the more I had trained, the more bad luck I seemed to have had with crashes and mechanical breakdowns dominating my racing leading to many personal disappointments. Eventually after finishing the season with a final poor performance at the UAE NAS Sports Tournament, I continued my training throughout the hot Dubai summer months in preparation for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Denmark in September. Every day during my preparations I felt

powerless, I lost the enjoyment of cycling and I lost my motivation. After the World Championships I had no option but to let go. I took my bike out only for some irregular group rides and unstructured solo sessions. I didn’t look at the numbers on my device. I didn’t put any pressure on myself at all. As I made a trip to France at the end of October with a group of entry level riders, with the purpose of riding for enjoyment, for the first time I looked back at the numbers on a climb outside Nice, and to my great surprise and relief, I discovered a new 20mins max power threshold. My strength had returned. On the phone, despite my fears and doubts I accepted without hesitation – the opportunity was just too good to refuse. I met Gerard one year ago at the Dubai Tour 2015 and unbeknownst to me, Gerard

had been following my cycling journey from afar ever since. There was only one condition attached to the invitation; I was required to undergo a variety of power tests to determine if my strength levels matched that of the field in which I would be competing. The team coach to SAS-Macogep-Acquisio, David Dulude, prescribed me a number of fitness tests, setting out the threshold levels I needed to pass. The tests consisted of a 30 seconds max, 5mins max and 30mins max power test. I completed these on my road bike using a power meter which measured my watt output. I felt the pressure, as I was not sure I could reach the power thresholds that were required. I made a couple of attempts and on the days where both wind conditions and my own strength harmonized, to my great relief, I met all the requirements. Now the real work could begin; that meant four months of intensive and focused training with the goal of improving both my power and fitness, but with specific focus on my anaerobic capacity (maximal work performed during maximum-intensity short-term efforts)

Work, Training and Racing

With a clear time line and goal, Coach David Dulude was immediately put in charge of my training program; and his training methods of low volume/high intensity has proven to work well for me as I have felt strong going into every training session. This style of training also ties in well around other commitments in life as it is less time consuming. In my case however as the majority of my work

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is private fitness coaching and instructing indoor cycling classes at Flywheel Sports, the challenge has been to create and manage a schedule of all physical work. We have had to work my road bike specific training around my flywheel sessions, resulting in just four weekly outdoor sessions. In addition, we have also had to monitor the training/recovery balance well to avoid over training. With a busier local UAE racing schedule this season, there has been opportunities to practise racing skills. I have also travelled to Qatar on a few occasions to race in an unfamiliar terrain and field. And then of course, joining some selected elite male training groups is good race training. And lastly, I have been fortunate to join the Al Marakeb Pro Continental male team for a couple of training sessions. Now, four months later and in very close proximity to the races, my improvements in anaerobic capacity have increased 16-19%. This is measured in power output during training, racing and tests and the results have been obvious as I have featured regularly on the top of the podium in the last three months. In addition to my cycling training, Coach David also prescribed regular and specific leg weight training in the gym.

The SAS–Macogep-Acquisio Female Professional Team

The professional team I will be joining is based in Quebec, Canada. The team was established in 2006 and consists of nine female riders. The team competes mainly in North America and Europe. The team has previously participated in the UCI Gatineau Race (Canada), Tour of Bretagnia (France) and a variety of races in Belgium. The team’s mission is to promote women’s cycling at

the highest level with a commitment to offer young, talented Canadian female cyclists the opportunity to compete in Canadian continental and International elite arenas. It is the first professional cycling team based in Quebec. Director Gerard Penarroya has been following the growth of female cycling the UAE and has aspirations to build a female competitive team in this region.

Racing Pro Category

I guess there is no better way to find out what the level of the female pro riders are, than to get into the field and feel and witness it for myself. Equally, it is an opportunity to measure the level of a UAE amateur elite female rider against the pro riders. How does our level compare to USA 1, 2, 3 and Pro Cat? I will find out during these challenging races happening 1st – 10th April in terrains we are not familiar with in the UAE. The first challenges will happen in San Dimas; three stage races consisting of an uphill individual time trial, a classic road race and a criterium with sharp corners. The next challenges I will face whilst being a guest for the team, will be participating in The Redlands Bicycle Classic. This is the longest continuous running invitational, professional stage race in American bike racing. The race consists of five stages in and around the Redland area and has existed since 1985. This event, featuring 350 elite racers, has hosted future stars of the Olympics, Tour de France, and World Championships. The Redlands Bicycle Classic's long heritage of attracting future stars has earned its position in history. It is truly a race "Where Legends Are Born!"

Credit to the UAE Cycling Community I am a 37 year old amateur rider, training and competing mainly locally. However as we see cycling booming in the UAE; with our dedicated cycling tracks, specialised cycling

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stores, increasing race calendars, opening of indoor cycling facilities, establishments of local male professional teams and the UAE hosting professional tours, the foundations to build a higher level of competitive cycling for both males and females, are already in place. Using all these benefits as well as benefiting from the support of the UAE cycling community and of course a high dose of selfdiscipline and dedication to the sport and my training, I feel in the best shape of my life. You can follow my journey of PRO racing in California 1st-10th April live on Snapchat @hellebve or Instagram @thegirlwhocyclesinthedesert.

Tips on How to Improve your Cycling: 1. Set a goal with a time line - and have a real purpose and desire to reach it. What does reaching that goal really mean to you? 2. Get a power metre on your bike 3. Hire a coach to help you plan your sessions. Ride with structure and purpose. 4. Make a weekly plan and decide which days and times you will ride – then stick to it 99% of the time. 5. Keep track of your progress by doing regular power tests. Every small progress boosts your confidence. 6. Listen to your body. Learn to know if your body is giving you signs of fatigue. 7. Clean up your diet and make sure to eat enough carbohydrates to fuel for training. Always fuel before intense or long training sessions. 8. Learn from riders with more experiences. Grab any knowledge you can from the best. 9. Surround yourself with like-minded people who understand and encourages you in the process. 10. And remember to have FUN! Helle Bachofen von Echt is a Dubai-based sponsored Elite Road Cyclist competing in both local and international events. When she is not training, she is helping others achieve their health and fitness goals by running her own personal training services as well as giving indoor cycling classes. Helle loves travelling with her bike and you can follow her adventures and racing on Instagram @thegirlwhocyclesinthedesert.

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OUR EXPERTS

The Curse That Rules Us All Words + Photos by: Kit Belen

When you watch a very experienced angler closely, you will see the choice of lures they stick with. They only carry a few small boxes in a bag filled with lures that they know will produce for them in a set of conditions they might encounter.

Not all of the anglers you encounter are like that, a lot of us are guilty of taking more than what we need for a days worth of fishing - however, this seems to be something common with the ones that know what they’re doing – they don’t take a lot of lures with them on their fishing trips. Even the fishing guides themselves will only have a handful of lures they use day in and day out – they might have a lot of them, but they stick with only a small variety of lures. For example, you will see about five lures they stick with, but they might have about half a dozen of these lures – and they only have about three or so colors of these lures, not the full range. Mind you, these are professionals that earn a living from fishing. There are exceptions to the rule, as we see with the case of bass angler that have to prepare and adapt to the tiniest of changes, and the fact that you need to stay on top of the competition, there is a need for them to have everything they can comfortably carry on their boat (which is mostly almost a tackle sop worth of lures and rods). However, there is really no need to take a whole tackleshop with you for a weekend’s worth of fishing. Although I’m pretty sure that many of us tend to overlook the fact that we take too much gear with us when we fish. Think about this: do you ever recall a day when you needed to throw everything you had to catch a fish? Needless to say, we have to accept the fact that we must carry all that we can to give us a better chance of catching fish and with that, we need a storage system that fits our needs.

Dealing with the Clutter

To organize things, you will need a few

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boxes. There are a lot out there and after looking for a brand that suits me, I settled for the Flambeau Tuff Tainer with Zerust. These containers are waterproof and rust proof so I don’t have to worry about my hooks rusting out. I have been using these boxes for quite a while now and I keep adding more because they make a lot of sense to me – as for the Zerust, I still make sure to dry out the lures before putting them back in the box, but so far, I have had lures on there that have been rust free for more than a year of exposure in saltwater. I have been doing a lot of shore fishing lately and have been using what the Japanese call a “floating fishing vest” it’s quite a departure from the traditional fishing vest as these vests are more like tactical fishing vests - they are life vests with big pockets on them and a few accessory holders in the sides, mine has a lip grip holder as well as a holster for my pliers. Everything I need is basically just a pocket away and are always easy to access. These Flambeau boxes fit perfectly in the main pockets and as a bonus, I can fit two long slim ones (Tuff Tainer 3000 size) inside the main pockets. Two of the 4000 or one 5000 series fits the back of the vest. In total, I can carry up to four small boxes (3000 size) and two 4000s, this equates to almost the convenience of a small tackle shop – If I choose to go that way. I mostly go with a small box filled with different weights and makes of metal jigs, a box to hold split rings, snaps, extra treble hooks, single hooks, assist hooks and all other small hardware, one box of plugs and one box of soft plastics. If I am walking a long stretch of beach, I carry a few spares in two

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– I ended up with a very flexible modular system centered on the fishing vest. All the boxes are loaded in the car and I take only what I need (or think I need) for the fishing ahead.

Till next high tide,

Kit

Our fishing pro who shares his experiences and expertise with OutdoorUAE through his regular column. thefishingkit@gmail.com

NaishKites

Photos: F. Berthuot

bigger boxes stored in the back of the vest. It might sound a lot of things to carry, but when the boxes are in the vest pockets, you don’t even think of them anymore. Although it takes some juggling, you eventually settle to a set of lures that you are very comfortable with and a handful that produce well for you. I change lures a lot to find what works in a particular area and carrying as much as I could has continually proven to be a formula that works – at least for me. A very good example was when a friend invited a few of us over to fish in his backyard in the Palm Jumierah one afternoon. I was happily casting a small jig for queenfish and spangled emperors when I noticed there was a boil not too far from where I was standing, I ran over to the boil and started casting my jig, I didn’t know what they were as they were a bit of a distance away from shore, I kept on casting and was not getting bit. If I didn’t have good selection of lures on me, I would have been forced to run back to my tackle box and take some lures, run back to the boil and cast again, losing the window for a hook up within the timespan. Of all the lures that would interest them, one finally took a pink bucktail jig I had in one of the boxes. How I avoid carrying everything in the vest is an investment of a few of those boxes, I don’t need to label them because I can clearly see what I have inside them. I basically fill the boxes according to what type of fishing I would be doing in the weekend and replace the boxes in the vest accordingly

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PEOPLE

Kristian Ghedina Age: 46 Nationality: Italian Occupation: Ski school trainer and owner. Former ski and car racer Words By: Nico de Corato Photos Supplied By: Kristian Ghedina

Kristian Ghedina is a former World Cup alpine ski racer from Italy and auto racer. With his thirteen victories he's the most awarded Italian downhill specialist in World Cup history. One night in Cortina, Italy, I was looking for a restaurant I've been one year before with a friend of mine, but I could not even remember the name. So I go back to the hotel where I was staying and I ask for a tip from the hotel owner. Elisabetta suggests that I go to Ristorante Al Passetto, owned by Giorgio Ghedina. It's historical place in the city, with lots of mementos and antiques by Kristian Ghedina - the famous ski racer; and also the owner - Kristian's uncle ‐ is a former bobsled champion. "It's a restaurant having something to tell." She says. Giorgio himself is very kind and you can have a little chat with him. Unbelievable coincidence when I entered... I discovered that it was the place I was looking for! I ask for a table, I order some food and then I look for the owner. I started talking with Giorgio, introduce myself, tell him about my idea of writing some

articles about Cortina, including — one day, an opportunity of getting in touch with Kristian for an interview. And he says "He's in the other room, should I call him?" Another surprise for me. So at the end we had dinner together and with the occasion, we had a nice talk. Kristian, tell us something about yourself. Ski racer and auto racer... Since I was a child, I always loved engines and I would have liked to become a professional driver. Downhill and auto racing: they look as two similar universes; having in common speed, pure competition, overcoming of physical limits. But, living in Cortina, we can say I started skiing before learning how to walk... And going on practicing, I approached the world of skiing competitions soon enough.

my eyes all the changes after so many years. I've been to SkiDubai as well. Of course I cannot compare it with the routes I'm used to; at the SkiDubai I'm not even able to reach full speed, but it was very funny and we enjoyed a lot.

What are you doing now?

What if Kristian was born in Dubai?

I'm managing a new project called M'Over, together with some other colleagues of the Italian national team and many other professionals; it is not only a ski or mountaineering school but something welcoming all tourists and mountain lovers, a real club bringing together people with the same passions. In the latter stage of your career you twice thrilled all your fans at Kitzbuhel in Austria by doing flying splits on the legendary Streif's last breakneck jump. You are the only skier ever to perform a spread eagle on the famous course! [Laughs] Well, it was just a bet! The day before, during the inspection, my cousin Francesco (also a ski racer) did the split. As he completed the course we met and he told me "I bet a pizza you are not brave enough to do the same". Well I did it! During the race, at 140 km/h and I finished in sixth position. So I won my pizza!

Have you ever been in Dubai? Did you ever try the feeling of skiing in the desert?

Yes, I've been there in 2007. I loved that trip and I'd like to come back soon to see with

I'd become a sandboarding champion [laughs]. Also, since motor sports are very popular in the UAE, I would probably dedicate myself to my other passion — car racing, which accompanied me in the second part of my sporting career.

Aside from his 13 World Cup wins - 12 in downhill and one in SuperG - Ghedina holds the record for World Cup downhills completed (169) and became the oldest podium placer in 2005, since then, Didiè Cuche got the record. Ghedina also held the record of four wins on Val Gardena's famous Saslong Run ‐ an achievement he shared with Austrian legend Franz Klammer, before Didiè Cuche got this record too.

PEOPLE

Nigel Lamb Age: 59 Nationality: British Occupation: Breitling Race Team pilot

Participating in the Red Bull Air Race which saw its sizzling season opener in Abu Dhabi is Nigel Lam, a 59-year old race pilot with the Breitling Race Team. Despite being at the age he is now, he doesn’t let that get in the way of him earning his wings and taking on the skies. To whom (or what) would you attribute your passion of flight?

I would attribute my passion for flight to the idea of freedom. I grew up on the Highlands of Eastern Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) and was transfixed by the eagles making flying look so effortless. There is nothing quite like being able to unshackle yourself from the earth and have the freedom of three dimensions to play with.

What were some of the challenges that you faced on your way to “earn your wings?”

The first challenge I faced was my age, as I applied to the air force at the age of 11 and surprisingly I was politely told to go and grow up a little! With aviation you always have a few obstacles to overcome – living in England, the weather always plays a factor and you have to pitch your wits against Mother Nature. You have to be determined and self motivated, and the hardest challenge in the Red Bull Air Race is to keep fully focused on the task in hand. Strategy is also essential, it is an art to look at all the options in front of you and choose/develop the right strategy that fits with you and your team – then execute that strategy for optimum results. And finally sometimes admitting you’re

How intense are the demands of air racing to you? Physically and mentally? wrong is the hardest challenge, but you have to trust those around you, and sometimes be prepared to adapt and overcome whichever varying factors or unforeseen events that come your way.

We read that you used to be in the Rhodesian Air Force, what lessons did being in Air Force taught you?

Being in the air force, taught me a lot – from a relatively young age, you learn a structure and a discipline and humility that is hard to replicate in other professions. Friendships, communication and teamwork is also a fundamental to be able to adapt and deal with lots of different personalities and to be able to recognise individual’s strengths and develop those unique elements. But, what I guess I am most grateful for is learning to fly – jets, helicopters and aerobatics which is what I found the most satisfying. The range and experience allowed me to fine tune in later years the passion for flight I had since I was a child.

You have to have a very strong body-core and neck muscles to withstand the high ‘G’ forces and stress from the 420˚/second roll rate. You need to have good techniques and exercises for looking after your back and your neck. We specifically train these muscle groups to deal withthe pressure. Using the fitness techniques above to keep physically fit as well. You have to be aware and be able to handle the mental demands, having a strong strategy is paramount. You really need to free up a lot of brain space to be focused in the track to do all the minute adjustments and be able to fly an invisible 3D racing line. I have a track analysis system so we can identify where I am losing time or not precisely on the line – but to be able to execute those slight and exact instructions and changes requires a lot of mental application. Somehow you have to find a balance between being too relaxed and too “hyped up”. You need to be feeling “sharp” but not under so much pressure that you do not fly in a natural precise and smooth manner. It’s very important that when you start the engine you are looking forward to the race and that you’re mentally and physically prepared. You need to be in a frame of mind where you can get the best out of yourself and the machine and feel that you are absolutely on top of your game. You’re focused, know exactly the line you want to take and you’re not thinking about anything else.

The best aircraft you have flown so far?

For handling it for sure is the race plane the MXS because it is just the most fantastic airplane for handling and maneuverability. For nostalgia, my favorite aircraft to fly is the Spitfire.

What is best thing about being a pilot?

Back to freedom of the 3-dimensions… but being a pilot doing this type of flying is the ultimate. Being able to strap a pair of wings on your back and fly these machines, low level through a race track – and pitch against guys from around the world - with my team and the strong support from Breitling and sharing it with my friends and family - I am a very lucky pilot.

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TIPS & TRICKS

Words By: Josafat “Pitoy” Cariquitan Photos By: Avinash John

Motocross is a dangerous sports yet full of excitement, thrill, fun, and adrenaline rush. I started riding a bike a long time ago. As a child, I used to ride on my father’s Yamaha Enduro DT which was my first real exposure to what some may consider to be motocross. In the times I was using that bike, I learned how to find a spot on some elevated locations or big rocks to descend down from using the bike. I loved the feeling of taking the bike off-road and that being said, I’m usually in the countryside where rough terrain, mountains and remote villages are king; where dirt and mud become the ultimate playground for me and my bike.

adventure ride. Motocross takes a lot of time and effort to learn thus, you should have the guts to do it.

As an enthusiast and a beginner, I’ve learned quite a lot from riding my own dirt bike here in the UAE. Motocross teaches various values to each rider involved and I myself have learned a lot by being on the saddle of my own bike. Here’s what I’ve learned from the couple of years that I have been riding.

2. Determination – You should have the determination to ride, to tackle different kinds of off-road terrain, to fall down and stumble but ride again. Challenge yourself! If others can do it, why can’t you? You can do it as well.

1. Firm Decision – Always have a firm decision when entering this kind of sports and

3. Being Physically Fit – You must be physically fit to handle road stress. You must have

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the strength to be able to take control of a 250lbs machine. Be ready for the tough and exhausting rides and jumps that will surely put some strain on your body. Other than that, be ready for worse case scenarios such as bike falls. Always think, “Are you physically fit to ride today?” 4. Mental Fitness – Other than being physically fit, you must also be mentally fit for the harsh terrains and road conditions to come. A present mind is always needed to maneuver and make quick responses during a ride.

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

Learn to control your adrenaline rush and conquer your fear. 5. Protect yourself with gear – Everything from a helmet to a pair of boots. as this is an extreme sport, it is as dangerous as it sounds fun. It is extremely critical for any rider to invest on safety and protective gears (with approved safety standards), such as helmets, goggles, knee& elbow pads, chest and back protectors, neck support and braces, kidney belts, riding boots and socks, riding jersey and pants, riding gloves, performance base layers, etc. It can minimise and prevent injuries and also allows the rider to continue to ride efficiently and enjoy more. 6. Discipline and Respect – Know your limitations. Do not do extremes if you’re not yet skilled to do so, and wait until you’re good at it. Respect fellow riders, respect the trail and respect nature itself. 7. Skill and Practice – Nobody was good on their first rides. Difficulties will be

experienced but “practice makes perfect”. And for the rider to be one with his bike, know your weaknesses on the tracks and correct it. Know your bike’s capabilities and bond with it. Learn from mistakes , always develop your riding skills and techniques. Ask your fellow riders for additional advice. 8. Watch the Pros – Watch and learn from the professionals. Apply what you have learned from them to your own riding techniques. Be inspired buy your idols. 9. Pre and Post Ride Maintenance – It is essential for your bike’s condition to be checked before and after the ride. Nobody wants to be stranded in the middle of a desert and it can ruin your fun ride. Know the basics of maintenance - coolant, engine oil, fuel, brakes, spark plug, air filter, carburettor, loose bolts and nuts etc. 10. Rest and Enjoy – Plan and get ready for your next ride, be prepared. Enjoy the outdoor life, enjoy your ride, and feel the thrill. Have fun!

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Motocross Words By: Nicky Holland Photos By: Keith Pereña

There is nothing quite like an adrenaline rush. Put a person on a bike with the acceleration in their own hands, add in some hills and jumps, followed by competitors to race against… then you have a “big” adrenaline rush. Just like all sports, you need to have a basic level of fitness; that level of fitness requires strength (physical and mental) endurance (to avoid muscle fatigue) flexibility and coordination. For each sport, your training needs to be specific to your activity, in order for you to optimise performance. Riding a bike requires good upper body strength, core strength and balance. Here are some exercises that can improve that.

4) Rowing Intervals

3) Straight Leg Hold, on the BOSU

1) Pull Ups

This predominantly works the back, along with the biceps and forearms. Muscle fatigue can kick in when you are in the riding position so your forearms and grip needs to be strong. Place both hands around the bar. Narrow grip is easier and is the best position to take for beginners, whereas wide grip is a lot harder and for the more advanced. Let your body hang and try to pull yourself up until your chin is in line with your hands then lower to the hang position. This counts as one rep. Aim to complete 3 sets of 10 reps.

The stronger your core, the better balance you will have. Your balance is really tested when you are riding at fast speeds, going over jumps and flying round bends. For this exercise, turn the BOSU upside down. Here you need to sit on the BOSU, with your legs out straight. The aim is to balance and hold your feet off the floor. You should feel this working your stomach muscles and you may start to shake. If you need a harder option, try to sit with your legs bent — contracting the abs to keep your feet off the floor. Your hands should be kept by your head the whole time. Complete 3-5 sets for 30-60 seconds.

Cardiovascular fitness is also important. This will ensure the muscles get oxygen, which will reduce lactic acid build up and will also help the body stay mentally focused. Interval training on the rower, involves periods of work at high intensity, followed by periods of rest at low intensity. Sit on the rowing machine and set the programme to 30:30. This means 30 seconds work, 30 seconds rest. Put your feet in the footplates and strap up tightly. Then pick up the bar and push your heels away to straighten the legs as you pull the bar into your chest at the same time. Then bend your legs back to the start position. The key to this type of training is the “intensity” so you need to make sure you are going as fast as you can on the 30 seconds work. You then have 30 seconds rest after. Try to complete this 8-10 times, aiming for 100-130m distance within the 30 seconds. I hope that from reading these tips, it has given you an insight into the different exercises you can do to condition your body for motocross. Now… on your bike!

2) Barbell Shoulder Raise

The shoulders play a part in keeping the arms straight, which helps the rest of the body remain in the riding position. Pick up a barbell, overhand grip. Stand with your feet hip distance apart, with your arms straight. Lift the bar from the thighs, up to shoulder height. As you do this, brace your core and keep your back straight. Try to lift the bar in a controlled movement and complete 3 sets of 10 reps. The barbell should be between 5-15kg. 60

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Nicky Holland Fitness Manager Fitness First Beach Park Plaza

Brought to you by:

The Do’s and Don’ts The following pictures give a better indication of the havoc cross chaining can cause:

Words By: Stewart Howison

One of our most common complaints and comebacks in the workshop is the common and dreaded “cross chain”. This is a simple and innocent mistake most new cyclists make and assume its poor gear setup by the store. So here it is in a nutshell.

Cross chaining is when your chain runs at extreme angles from the chain ring to the cassette which causes that grinding noise that everyone hates. Not only is it noisy but it causes excessive component wear. Cross chaining used to be a big industry no-no, however has become more and more expected. This however does not make it mechanically ideal.

Why not Cross Chain?

• Cross Chaining causes additional stress on the drivetrain components causing additional wear on the chain rings as well as on the chain and cassette gears resulting in power loss (power going to wearing out your parts instead of propelling you forward) • Chain length must be longer to accommodate complete cross chaining (small to small and big to big). • The extra chain slapping around (in the small to small) cross chain condition can cause skips or other problems, because many derailleurs won't provide the full range of motion required. Some bikes experience this worse than others, depending on what the specified chain line is but most will rub and grind on the chain rings and front derailleur as shown below, where this is a good indication of the cross chaining most bikes experience.

The Big/Big Combo – A Bad Idea! This one shows how stretched the rear derailleur is when riding in the big/big combo: (Big chain ring and big rear cog.)

In general, is advisable to make use of the smaller 3/4 of the cassette with the big ring, and the larger 3/4 of the cassette with the small ring. Obviously, in order to get to the easy ratios, this requires shifting both the front and back derailleurs at the same time. That's not hard when you try it a few times, but we've found it's not the natural tendency for most people until they are introduced to the idea. After trying it a few times, it becomes so easy and natural. To get into this ideal ratio, you back off the power for a split second, make both shifts, and back on the power without missing a beat. Incidentally, the shifts tend to be easier and quicker when there is a dynamic change in the chain — like both derailleurs moving at the same time. This is a far better approach than cross chaining, and definitely a better option than abusing the drivetrain. After all, you're putting out the power — make it go to the ground rather than to wearing out parts.

Straight Chain vs Cross Chaining

The above pictures are taken at a very similar angle, yet the bike on the right looks askew. That’s because it is cross chaining. The photo on the left however, shows the bike with a very straight chain line. In other words, the chain is parallel to the bike, so it looks (and rides) like normal.

The Little/Little Combo – Another Bad Idea! And this shows the rear derailleur doubled-back on itself because there is too much slack in the chain, caused by riding in the little/little combo: (Small chain ring and smallest rear cog.)

The Moral of the Story: Do Not Cross Chain! Trimming your Gears

If you really have to cross chain there is a trick to reduce the noise of the chain grinding your front derailleur. This is referred to as the trim in bike shop but also as the “half click”. When cross chaining simply click your left STI (only road shifters) half a shift up. You will feel a light click and the derailleur will move over a few millimetres to allow the chain room to move by without contact.

Fore more info, please call or email: +971 4 3697441 | Info@rcdxb.com

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

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Fitness from Africa

Failing the Test or Failing to Test? Words + Photos By: Marcel Viljoen

Most people see fitness tests as scary, invasive and even a waste of time. In reality it is an extremely valuable process where your strengths and areas for improvement can be identified. And the emphasis is on PROCESS as it should be an ongoing regime of determining where you are to start off with, identifying all possible factors that would benefit your performance or goals, and then addressing them systematically. The exciting news is that there are multiple areas to be tested, which is code for multiple opportunities for improvement! It might be disheartening to find out that you scored poorly in a dozen different areas. But, just think how your performance would improve if you were to start addressing even a quarter of those areas! And it doesn’t mean you would have to focus on all areas simultaneously. The beauty of conditioning your body is that as you get the foundations in place, suddenly a lot of other areas will start falling into place as well. Please note that fitness testing is not the reserved privilege of elite athletes. We can all benefit from carefully crafted testing regimes to get to that next race or match, to gain the muscle you want for your sport, or just to establish that training routine that you have been procrastinating about!

Areas that would be revealing through assessment include the following:

• Physical fitness evaluation (body composition; range of motion and flexibility of joints; stability of joints, general and specific strength; speed; agility; reaction time; coordination; stamina; endurance; anaerobic threshold; heart rate training profile; etc.) • Technical analysis (Are your movements secure, safe and functional to the activity/sport you have chosen? Do you have the correct equipment or footwear for your body type and biomechanics?)

• Tactical analysis (Do you compete with sound strategies or game plans? Do you know when and where things normally go wrong and what needs to be done to improve? Have you seen video footage of yourself in competition or during an event?) • Psychological evaluation (Are you focussed during preparation and on competition days? How well do you handle the pressure when it’s game time? How confident are you of achieving your goals?) • Health evaluation (General health including blood pressure, lung function, cardio stress test, neurological function, joint functionality, etc.) • Nutritional evaluation (Do you have any nutritional deficiencies? Are you eating enough? Are you eating the correct foods for your sporting requirements? Do you know what to eat or drink during and after competitions? Should you be taking any supplements?) As you may well imagine these tests could be time consuming and have imminent financial implications. So you need to establish when and which evaluations you need to start with, but either way, you need to start somewhere! When it comes to our online coaching and training clients, it makes perfect sense to have some set protocols in place that will allow for building a profile of each person to ensure there are no risk factors, health issues or other concerns that will prevent us from preparing an effective, challenging but safe routine. By including some physical tests, we are also assured of knowing current levels of fitness, competence and knowing what type of program would work best for a specific individual. Self-testing normally creates some varied responses from clients. Some will go out and do the tests on the same day. Others will gather their determination by building up to an identified self-evaluation day a week or so down the line!

The nature of these tests may vary from a 12-minute Cooper Test, to an all-out hill session to determine maximum heart rate. The Cooper Test is very useful to determine current aerobic competence as all you are required to do is see how far you can walk, run, crawl or sprint during 12 minutes! A more general test would be in the form of a fitness gauntlet. Some top sports teams use these to set baseline tests for players at the beginning of the season, not only to monitor improvement, but also to determine whether a player is fit for return to the game after an injury layoff. The advantage of a fitness gauntlet is that one can streamline it according to a sport or to individual requirements. An example would be a 30m sprint, 20 sit-ups, 30m tire pull, 10 push ups, agility run with ball pick-ups, ten 10kg medicine ball slams, finishing up with 3 x 30m shuttle runs. The functionality of an all-round circuit like this will give the trainer and client an overall perspective of general fitness, but without over-taxing any specific area in general. It could be most motivating to have some basic tests reserved for more regular testing, for example body measurements, waking heart rate, blood pressure, or a 3km tempo run. There are a number of apps available nowadays to help with capturing and storing personal data, training info and can even be done on social network level in the form of challenges and other interactive options. Revealing personal information for some is just that though – very personal. So it’s important to determine exactly how much you are prepared to share with the world, but with the confidence in your trainer or coach you could be well assured of discretion and keeping the focus where it should be. For every season there is opportunity, irrespective of where you live! If you don’t already have some firm goals in place, start dreaming about where you want to be. Start dreaming of how you will feel once you achieve that goal! Start planning now how you will test to see where you are right now and who will be privileged to join you on that journey!

Marcel Viljoen is an online fitness coach and a 2h39min marathon runner. You can get in touch with him at marcel@fitnessfromafrica.co.za

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

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

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, www.go-sport.com InterSport, Dubai Times Square Centre: +971 43418214 and Dubai Festival City: +971 42066581, www.intersport.ae 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, http://en-ae.sssports.com

Adventure tours and desert safaris

Alpha Tours, Off #512, 5th Flr., Al Qwais Bldg., Al Ittihad Road, Deira, Dubai, +971 42949888, 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.arabiantours.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, National Towers: Churchill Tower Suite #614, Business Bay, Dubai, +971 44221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com Element Fitness, Dubai, +971 44227352, www.element-fitness.net Explorer Tours, Umm Ramool, Dubai, +971 42861991, www.explorertours.ae Gulf for Good, 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, Dubai, +971 42628832 or 4 2686826, www.opdubai.com Rahhalah, Dubai, +971 44472166,

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www.rahhalah.com Wild Guanabana, Dubai, +971 44422946, www.wildguanabana.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Fishing, Camping, Kayaking, & Adventure Club, +971 5 04920860, mohammed.almahrouky@gmail.com

Air

Ballooning Adventures Emirates, Dubai, +971 42854949, 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, Dubai, +971 43778888, www.skydivedubai.ae

Boating & Sailing

Manufacturer Al Fajer Marine, Dubai, Al Quoz, +971 43235181, www.alfajermarine.com Al Jeer Marina, RAK border Musandam, +971 72682333 or 504873185, www.aljeerport.ae Al Shaali Marine, Ajman, +971 67436443, www.alshaalimarine.com Al Yousuf Industrial, LLC, +971 4 3474111, www.aym.ae, yamboats@alyousuf.com Elite Pearl Charter, Saeed Tower 1, office #3102, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43889666, www.elitepearlcharter.com Gulf Craft, Ajman, +971 67406060, www.gulfcraftinc.com Distributors and Dealers Art Marine LLC, Al Quoz Industrial Area, Sheikh Zayed Road, 3rd Interchange +971 43388955, www.artmarine.ae or www.artmarinechandlery.com Azure Marine Dubai, +971 4 3706886, www.azuremarine.net Luxury Sea Boats, Dubai, +971 4 3284629, www.luxuryseaboats.com Macky Marine LLC, Dubai, +971 505518317, www.mackymarine.com Nautilus Yachts, Sharjah, +971 553419494 or 503419494, www.nautilusyachts.com The Boat House, Al Quoz, Dubai, +971 43405152, www.theboathouse.ae UAEBoats4Sale, Dubai Marina, +971 508446952 or 525682129, www.uaeboats4sale.com Western Marine, Marina Yacht Club, Dubai, +971 43039744 Equipment Ali Khalifah Moh Al Fuqaei, Deira, Dubai, +971 42263220 Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,

The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43808616 or 553899995, www.bluewatersmarine.com Extreme Marine, Dubai Marina Branch, +971 43992995, www.extrememarine-me.com Japan Marine / D1 Marine, WS # 110, Dubai Maritime City, +971 4 4426395 or 55 1666035, www.japanmarine.co Rineh Emirates Trading LLC, Al Quoz, Dubai, +971 43391512, Repairs and Maintenance Extreme Marine, Dubai, Dubai Marina, +971 43992995, www.extrememarine-me.com Rineh Emirates, Sheikha Sana Warehouse 1, Al Quoz, +971 43391512, SNS Marine, JAFZA Techno Park, Jebel Ali, Dubai, +971 501405058, www.snsmarine.ae The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz, +971 43405152, www.theboathouse.ae Cruise Operators Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi, +971 26665491 Al Marsa Travel & Tourism, Dibba, Musandam, +968 26836550 or 65441232 Bateaux Dubai, Dubai Creek opposite the British Embassy, +971 48145553 Bristol Middle East, Dubai Marina, +971 4368 2480, www.bristol-middleeast.com Captain Tony’s, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, +971 26507175, www.captaintonys.ae Delma Industrial Supply and Marine Services, Al Bateen Jetty, Abu Dhabi, +971 26668153, www.delmamarine.net Eden Yachting, Dubai Marina, +971 504586171, www.edenyachting.com Emirates Yachting, Dubai, +971 42826683 El Mundo, Dubai, +971 505517406, www.elmundodubai.com Four Star Travels and Tourism, Dubai, +971 56 1012599, www.4startravels.com 4 Yacht Arabia, Shop No. 5, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, 800 92248, www.4yachtarabia.ae Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa, Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah, +971 92449888, www.rotana.com Ghantoot Marina & Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971 529933153, www.ghantootmarina.com Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai, +971 48706668, www.happydaysdubai.com JPS Yachts and Charter, Room 225, Emarat Atrium building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43437734, www.jpsyachts.com Khasab Divers, Oman, +971 567255889, khasab.diver2@gmail.com Khasab Musandam Travel & Tours, P.O. Box 411, Khasab, Musandam, +968 93350703, info@tourkhasab.com LY Catamaran, Dubai, www.lycatamaran.com Marine Concept, Dubai, +971 559603030, www.marine-charter-concept.com Nautica1992, Dubai, +971 504262415, www.nautica1992.ae Noukhada Adventure Company - P.O. Box 73373, C/O Ali & Sons Real Estate LLC, Plot No. 29, Abu Dhabi – Al Ain Rd, Um Al Nar, Abu Dhabi, UAE - +971 25581889 www.noukhada.ae RAK Marine LLC, Ras Al Khaimah City Hilton Marina, +971 557934525 or 507682345 Sea Hunters Passenger Yachts & Boats Rental, Dubai Marina, +971 42951011 Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +968 26836551, www.sheesabeach.com Smoke Dragon of London Yacht, Abu Dhabi International Marine & Sports Club, +971 507011958 or 504546617 Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai, +971 42573084 The Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26731111, www.the-club.com The Yellow Boats LLC, Dubai Marina Walk – opposite Spinneys, Intercontinental Hotel Marina, 800892, www.theyellowboats.com Marinas Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, Abu Dhabi, Breakwater, +971 26815566, www.adimsc.com Abu Dhabi Marina, Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area, +971 26440300 Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam +971 72682333 or 504873185, www.aljeerport.ae Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman, +968 24534554, www.almoujmarina.com Al Wasl Charter & Fishing, Airport Road, Al Qwais Bldg., Off. 207, Dubai, UAE, +971 42394760 or 42959477,

www.cruiseindubai.com Dubai Creek Marina, Deira, Dubai, +971 43801234, www.dubaigolf.com Dubai International Marine Sports Club, Dubai Marina, +971 43995777, www.dimc.ae Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai, +971 43627900, www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com Dubai Maritime City Harbour Marina, Dubai, +971 43455545 Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, Dubai, +971 43941669, www.dosc.ae Emirates Palace Marina, Abu Dhabi, +971 26907725 Four Seasons Marina, Doha, Qatar, +974 44948899, www.mourjanmarinas.com Fujairah International Marine Club, Fujairah, +971 92221166, www.fimc.ae Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Marina, Al Bateen, Intercontinental Hotel, Abu Dhabi, +971 26666888, www.intercontinental.com Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Marina, Jebel Ali, Dubai, +971 48145555 www.jebelali-international.com Lusail Marina, Lusail City, Qatar, +974 55843282, www.mourjan-lusailmarina.com Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Muscat, Oman, +968 24737286 (ext 215), www.marinaoman.net Pavilion Marina, Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +971 44068800 The Pearl–Qatar Marinas, Doha, Qatar, +974 4965801, www.ronauticame.com 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

SPE

CIAL

OFF

Dubai - Tel: 04-3809647 Abu Dhabi (Musaffah) - Tel: 02-5588890 Sharjah - Tel: 06-5388666 | Ajman - Tel: 06-7410004 R.A.K - Tel: 07-2351592 | Fujairah - Tel: 09-2221188 www.aym.ae

OUTDOORUAE

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 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 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 Peak Performance, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Dubai, +971 43413056 or 43308023 Probike, Dubai, Al Barsha 1, +971 43255705, www.probike.ae Rage Shop, 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, Festival City, +971 43395602 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,

OUTDOORUAE

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

www.trekbikes.ae Trikke uPT, Dubai, +971 45081202 or 556096757, 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 Scuba Dubai, Al Barsha, Al Khail Road, Dubai, +97143414940, info@scubadubai.com 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, 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, Fujairah, Rotana Al Aqah Hotel Resort & Spa, +971 92370299, www.diversdown-uae.com Emirates Divers Centre, Abu Dhabi, near Meena Fish Market, +97126432444, www.edc-ad.ae Euro-Divers Oman, Muscat, Oman, +968 95035815, www.euro-divers.com Extra Divers Zighy Bay, Oman, Musandam, +968 26735555, www.extradivers.info Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, +971 506130486 contactus@freedivinguae.com, www.freedivinguae.com Freestyle Divers, Al Wasl & Dibba, Royal Beach Hotel, Dubai, +971 43944275, www.freestyledivers.com 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 Moonlight Dive Center, Madinat Qaboos, Oman, +968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com Neptune Diving, +971 504347902, www.neptunedivingcentre.com Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai, +971 44068828 Scuba Oman, Oman, +968 99558488, www.scubaoman.com 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

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 558961276 or 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 26503600, 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

MIDDLE EAST’S OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 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, flipme@flipfloparabia. com, www.flipfloparabia.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai +971 48829361, www.globalclimbing.com Highbury Trading, Dubai, www.highburytrading.ae 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

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Wild X, Dubai, Um Al Ramoul Industrial Area, +971 42852200

Motorcycling

Horse Riding

Equipment Al Asifa Horse Equestrian & Requisites Trading, Al Khawaneej 1, Dubai, +971 554733110, www.asifa.ae Black Horse LLC, Abu Dhabi, +971 26428338, 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 506229004, 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, +971 42822114, www.libertykawasaki.com

Motocross & ATV’s

Dealers Al Badayer Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, +971 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 Just Gas It, Hatta Rd., Al Aweer, Dubai, UAE, +971 561379323, www.JustGasIt.net KTM, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, exit 42, +971 4323151, www.ktm.com Liberty Kawasaki, Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 42822114, www.libertykawasaki.com Motoventure, Hobbies Club, Al Awir, Hatta Road, Dubai, +971 555437392, www.motoventure.net mxDubai, Al Ain Road Dubai, +971 55 2090832, www.mxdubai.com 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 Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai, +971 551532550, www.goldendesert-dubai.com Sebsports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 Dubai, +971 43393399, www.sebsports.com Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai, +971 48321050 Equipment Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza – 503, Dubai, +971 42959429, www.arabiantours.com 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

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 Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz, +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, +971 42822144, www.libertykawasaki.com Polaris UAE, Al Ghandi Complex, Nad al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor, +971 42896100, www.polarisuae.com Tristar Motorcycles, +971 43330659, 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 Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, 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 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 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.arabiantours.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

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

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 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, www.facebook.com/UAE-Sup-and-SurfAssociation-358311720952873/

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, Abu Dhabi, + 971 25588990, www.adgolfclub.com

OUTDOORUAE

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

APRIL 2016 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.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 44260000, 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 Sadiyaat Beach 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 Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, +971 26577777

Health, Safety & Training

+971 553724670, www.bespoke-wellness.com Original Fitness Co., C6 Tower Al Bateen Bainunah St, Abu Dhabi, +971 2406 9404, www.originalfitnessco.com Orthosports, 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

OMAN DIRECTORY

Sultanate of Oman, +968 26836550, www.almarsamusandam.com 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 Divers, Oman, +968 99883345, www.khasabdiver.com

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 Seaoman, P.O. Box: 2394, RUWI PC 112, Oman, +968 24181400, www.seaoman.com Sub Aqua Dive Center, Hilton Salalah Resort, P.O. Box: 699, Salalah 211, Oman, +968 23211234, www.subaqua-divecenter.com

P.O. Box: 117, Postal Code 421, Bediyah, Ghabbi, Oman, +968 99310108, www.safaridesert.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 92449444, www.discovernomad.com Oman Dive Center, Muscat, Oman, +968 24284240, www.omandivecenter.com Oman Dive Center Resort, PO Box: 199, Medinat Sultan Qaboos, Oman, +968 24824240, www.omandivecenter.info

Stand Up Paddeling, Kite & Surfing, Wakeboarding

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

Equipment Az’Zaha Tours, +968 99013424, www.azzahatours.com Water World Marine Oman, P.O. Box: 76, Muscat, 113, Sultanate of Oman, +968 24737438, www.waterworldoman.com

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, PO Box: 123, P.C. 811, Khasab City, Musandam, Oman, +968 26730813, www.dolphinkhasabtours.com Go Dive Oman, Capital Area Yacht Club (CAYC), Sidab Muscat, +968 97899094, 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

Diving

Equipment Al Marsa Musandam, PO Box: 44, Dibba,

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 4837815, 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 East Marine, West Bay, Doha, Qatar, +974 55200078 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, 29, P.O. Box: 18180 Qatar, +974 4315555, 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, Doha, Qatar, +974 55776679, www.qatar-ventures.com

Clubs

Cycling, Running & Triathlon Doha Sailing Club, Katara Beach +974 44439840 or 55649995 Qatar Chain Reaction, www.qatarchainreaction.weebly.com

OUTDOORUAE

Camping & Hiking Tour Operators Safari Desert Camp,

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 44935183, www.qrec.gov.qa

+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, Poseidon Dive Center, Ras Abu Abboud Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2, P.O. Box: 11538, Doha, Qatar, +974 66084040, www.pdcqatar.com Poseidon Dive Center, Ras Abu Abboud Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2, P.O. Box: 11538, 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, Souq Al Najada cnr of Grand Hamad and Ali bin Abdulla Str.; Al-Odeid Aisle numbers 129-132, +974 55319507, 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 44313331, www.qatardivers.com Qatar Marine, Go Sport City Center West Bay, P.O. Box: 16657, Doha, +974 553199507, www.qatarmarine.net Qatar Scuba Centre, 187 Al Mansoura Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar, +974 66662277 or 44422234, www.qatarscubacenter.com Qdive Marine Center, P.O. Box: 16657, Doha, Qatar, +974 44375065, www.qdive.net World Marine Centre, Old Salata Street, near the Qatar National Museum, Doha, Qatar, +974 55508177

Diving

Fishing & Kayaking

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

Horse Riding

Equipment/Centres Al Fardan Marine Services, Najma Street (near Al Fardan Exchange), Doha, Qatar,

Add your free listing to the 66

Safety Lessons Marine Concept Yacht Charter & Sea School, Rania Business Centre, Dubai, +971 559603030, www.marine-charter-concept.com Safety & Leisure Training Middle East, Dusseldorf Business Point, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, +971 48879958, www.sltme.com Sport and Health Centres Bespoke Wellness, Dubai,

Equipment Al Kashat, Fishing and Hunting Equipment, Souq Waqif, next

Caving

Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman, +968 24543002, www.holiday-in-oman.com Oman World Tourism, Oman, +968 24565288, www.omanworldtourism.com

Fishing & Kayaking

Boating & Sailing

Manufacturer Saphire Marine, PO Box: 11, Post Code 118, Muscat, Oman, +968 99877243, www.sapphire-marine.com 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

Motocross & ATV’s Dealers

Qatar Adventures, Barwa Village, Building # 9 Shop # 11, Doha, Qatar, +974 77700074

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

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