OutdoorUAE Women Magazine - March 2015 by OutdoorUAE

MARCH 2015

MOTO WOMEN

RIDE LIKE A GIRL The Velo Vixens Dirt Skirts GIRLS AND THEIR GEAR

OUTDOORS’ LEADING LADIES

Special Women’s Issue

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Like a girl I’m sure you’ve seen this viral video on YouTube: people were asked to act out what it means for them to run, throw and fight like a girl. And women, men and boys giggled and demonstrated these actions in the wimpiest and feeblest ways. Then they posed the question “when did doing something ‘like a girl’ become an insult?” Younger girls were also asked to do the same, but they ran fast, punched and threw hard as they could, because their interpretation of being like a girl is, well, doing the best that you can. Simple and inspiring, especially since it was a commercial for a feminine hygiene product aired during,

Dana and Kylie goofing off in between takes.

the Super Bowl, a male-dominated sporting event. Another brand also took a stand against stereotypes with their “and commercial” conveying in spoken poetry that you can be “polished nails and polished mind”, “grace and guts”, “warmth and wisdom.” This safety razor is saying you can be anything you want and more. Well, advertisements are driven to sell products to us, but the message of rejecting labels, loving yourself and gender equality is really empowering. We at OutdoorUAE recognise that the great outdoors is not an all-boys club. More than half of the OutdoorUAE

Sune all smiles for the camera despite the warehouse heat.

team are ladies and when you go out at any sporting event there’s a good number of female participation. So just in time for the International Women’s Day on March 8th we want to give props to all the inspiring ladies of the outdoors from cycling to triathlon to horse riding with our first women supplement. We are grateful to all who shared their precious time, stories and insights regarding women and outdoor sports. According to the www.internationalwomensday. com, this year’s theme is “Make It Happen” and we think all of our female contributors have made things happen. They have shaken and brighten up the local outdoor scene and inspired us to step out of the box, be confident women, and to do more.

Glaiza

Lynette was skydiving the whole day but was game to pose for a few shots and cycle around the Skydive Dubai.

How cool are the Velo Vixen ladies and uniforms? OutdoorUAE Special Supplement

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A fitting career We learn a little more about Barbara Ihrig, the UAE’s only qualified female bike fitter Words by: Trace Rogers

riends and family were shocked when after 10 years in the hotel industry, Barbara quit her job. At the time, she was the Director of Revenue for a prominent hotel on The Palm. What surprised

people more though was her new choice in career – a massive departure from hotel management. Barbara started doing triathlons in 2011. Not one to dream small, by April 2012 she had completed her first Ironman. It was whilst training for this event that she came to appreciate the importance of having the right bike fit. She soon realised that being correctly sized on a bike that you plan on spending 180km of hard racing on, was crucial for comfort, efficiency, speed and injury prevention. This motivated her to learn more about the science and by the end of 2012, she was pleased to have officially certified (SICI) as a bike fitter. By early 2013, Barbara had decided that it was time to leave the corporate world and follow her new found passion. Through a series of events,

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Barbara opened TRI Pod, a triathlon specific shop based in Dubai catering to the evergrowing population of UAE triathletes. This has allowed her to totally immerse herself into a sport that she is passionate about and refine her skills as a bike fitter. If the public were sceptical of a woman being competent in a male dominated profession, they were good at keeping their opinions to themselves or being quickly silenced. She has developed the reputation for “knowing her stuff”. Clients are quick to sing her praises and refer business her way. One satisfied client, Huseyin Uygunpolat, commented: “I had a bike fit session with Barbara. Toe numbness, lower back pains have disappeared since then. I like her style. I recommend them to all who have been having similar problems.” When asked what she considers the key elements of a successful bike fit to be, Barbara had the following to say: “There is no singular element of a successful bike fit. It is important that all elements work well together.” Barbara inspires us to live courageously and follow our passions, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

OUTDOORUAE WOMEN’S ISSUE

omen eight ater sports

ater sports are adventurous, fun-filled, action-packed and exciting. Both, physical exertion and mental stimulation can be attained in water sports. They offer a visual treat, motivation and an elated feeling. Water sports can be played in, on, or under water. UAE is one best places for water rides and fun. Beaches and winds are in favour of marine sports lovers. UAE government, RTA, the police and marine authority also encourage and invite all water sports lovers to fulfill their dream in their own way. When it comes to any sports, women are major part of it. In the UAE, you will find many passionate female athletes and sports enthusiast. Women have turned water sports into their routine exercise in where some water activities really reflect incredible impact on bodies. Let’s share some exercising techniques which you can do while you’re on the water. PADDLE BOARDING Paddle boarding is a true total body workout. It requires you to engage your legs, bottom and core for balance and stability, while you work your arms, back and core to power yourself through the water. And the all over muscle toning isn’t the only perk. “The biggest benefit of paddle boarding is that it trains your balance and focus. There is very little room for error if you don’t want to keep falling into the water.” Pro tip: start with a long, wide board that provides stability, and gradually switch onto shorter, narrower boards for a bigger challenge. How to train: Balance is the key to paddle

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boarding, and it’s also the key to training for the sport. Single-leg lunges and single-leg squats are great ways to strengthen your lower body while honing your balance, she says. Recommended paddle brand: Jobe Sports New Bamboo SUP

WAKEBOARDING/SURFING Wakeboarder babes are glamorous and for good reason. Riding waves build strong core and legs, while swimming the board back out to water is a nonstop cardio workout. Most importantly, hanging 10 requires intense bursts of efforts. It’s like highintensity interval training class – just with a better view. How to train: Make sure to log plenty of cardio workouts to up your endurance and workouts that mimic the pop-up move of surfing. Think planks, pushups, burpees and jumps. Recommended wakeboarding brand: Jobe Sports New Grace Wakeboard for women

KAYAKING If you’ve ever sweated it out on your gym’s rowing machine, you know a good stroke is the key to rocking a strapless dress all summer long. And while you wouldn’t necessarily think that a seated workout would tone your lower body, better bottom and thighs are among the biggest benefits of kayaking. By squeezing your glutes for turning, balancing and as a source of power, you tone your lower body in constant isometric exercises. For the best workout while paddling, keep your back straight and rotate your torso with each stroke. How to Train: The row machine is the perfect full-body workout to prepare for faster and stronger strides in the water. If you’re more concerned about cramps than speed, isometric exercises like a plank or a wall sit can strengthen your glutes and minor stabilising muscles in your legs and bottom. Recommended kayak brand: Kayaks which have been designed for UAE’s weather like Feel Free

It is always recommended that you should chose quality safety items through the authorised dealers such as Al Yousuf Motors where not only quality is good but also you can find their price very competitive, above all, you can find Al Yousuf Showrooms throughout UAE. From training to provision of complete water sports with world renowned safety items, Al Yousuf Motors is always there to assist you in your adventurous endeavours by only following one rule and that is “customer satisfaction.”

Please contact us any time for any water sports assistance. It will be our pleasure to assist you. Email: saferide@alyousuf.com Contact No: 050 3790737

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On becoming a rock climber Words by: Maha Nasrallah

ne random evening three years ago when I was still living in Lebanon, a good friend of mine invited me to go rock climbing with them over the weekend. I had no idea what that meant exactly and had no knowledge or experience in climbing, but being someone who was always up for trying something new, I took him up on his offer. The day we were supposed to go, I was about to bail as I was at a wedding the night before and had barely slept, but I said to myself, “this might be my only opportunity”, and so I dragged myself out of bed. And boy am I grateful I did! I loved it. And ever since that day, my lifestyle took a drastic change for the better. That summer, we went rock climbing every weekend. I never missed an opportunity; if anything, I would choose having an early night over going out partying so I can be fresh and full of energy for the next day. My passion for this sport grew more and more with every experience. Why do I love climbing? I’m not sure where to begin, but here’s why: uTHE SPORT Let me start with the most obvious answer: the sport itself. What I love the most about rock climbing as a sport is the constant physical challenge. Let’s face it, no one likes to do the same thing over and over again, that’s probably one of the reasons people stop going to the gym. But in rock climbing, there’s always something new to learn, a new limit to push ourselves beyond, and new strengths to uncover and develop. Not to mention that it’s a full-body workout, strengthening your upper body, core and legs. I’ve always been active and sporty, but ever since I took up rock climbing I can surely say that my body has never been ever as toned and I have never been as healthy and fit as I am now. Of course your training and

sport has to be complemented with healthy eating, but when you become a climber, you are going to want to adopt a healthy lifestyle because you will want to have the energy, strength and fitness to be able to enjoy climbing and progress in it. uTHE THRILL Oh the rush! What an exciting feeling it is to be somewhere above the ground, trying to climb your way up, knowing that you might fall and making it. No one can deny the exhilarating aspect of this sport. Granted, some rocks and routes are more thrilling than others, and of course the indoors is nothing compared to the outdoors, but even when you’re training indoors on an easy route, and you know that nothing bad can happen, you can’t help but feel the increased beating of your heart. Rock climbing is sometimes perceived as a dangerous sport, and of course it can be, if you’re not careful and playing it safely. Everything has some risk to it, and so often people hurt themselves

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doing something really silly. The risky aspect of climbing is, of course, part of its appeal, but it is not to be taken lightly. I never climb or belay outdoors without a helmet, yet I see so many climbers not wearing one. Sure it doesn’t look as cool, and wearing a helmet is more important when you are belaying versus when climbing, but the way I see it is I would rather be safe than look cool, and I don’t want to risk hurting myself if I hit my head when I fall or get hit by a rock that may fall from above. This isn’t meant to scare you off, on the contrary, it’s to encourage playing it safely, and that means making sure you go in groups, preferably with an experienced climber, wear a helmet, learn the right way to tie your knots, have the right equipment, and climb routes you know are well-maintained. uTHE OUTDOORS I was lucky to start my climbing journey outdoors – maybe if I had started it indoors I wouldn’t have loved it as much. One of the most special features of

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OUTDOORUAE WOMEN’S ISSUE

climbing is the outdoor element itself and the connection to nature. I have witnessed so much beauty and have experienced Lebanon, the UAE and Oman from a completely different perspective during my climbs on their precious mountains. There’s a side to this part of the world that many people don’t experience because they simply don’t step outside their comfort zone. The outdoors is not luxurious, but when you experience the outdoors in the way that I do, luxury takes on a whole new meaning. Being able to experience the magnificent outdoors becomes luxury, but it is a privilege that everyone and anyone can experience. There is a sense of gratitude and appreciation about the world we live in, and a respect to all forms of life, that fills your soul when you become an outdoor lover. uTHE COMMUNITY The expat community in Dubai is huge, and many people living here have come alone and therefore want to expand their social circles and meet new people. One of the best ways to make new friends, especially friends you would get along with, is through a common interest, and so if you’re a climber or are interested in the outdoors, joining climbing or outdoor groups can be a great way to enrich your social life and make new friends.

And from my own experience, most people I have met through the outdoors or climbing community are very helpful and genuine people, and I have made quite a few good friends and met some extraordinary people along the way. uTHE PSYCHOLOGY Being a counsellor myself, I think what attracted me the most to rock climbing is the psychology behind it. Its therapeutic properties and psychological benefits go way beyond its physical gains. When I first started climbing, almost every time I would try a new route, I would get stuck at some point, freeze and think that I can’t do it. Fifteen minutes would go by while I would stay in the same spot saying “I can’t!” out loud until I either come back down or eventually find a way to continue. With time and experience, I realised that if I learn to relax, focus and try, I will overcome the challenge. Climbing is an incredible way to build confidence, learn to challenge your fears, anxieties and self-doubt; manage your emotions, relax and focus on the now, and overcome obstacles and difficulties. One of the key elements of climbing is to really be in the moment and concentrate on the task at hand. And as you progress and achieve, you will gradually start to believe

more in yourself and your abilities. A big part of climbing is also learning to trust, as you have to really have faith in your feet and grip, your partner and yourself. Some readers can relate to many things I wrote, whereas others may have been surprised to learn so many different elements and depths to the sport of rock climbing. I assume it’s quite clear how passionate I am about it now – I was thrilled to get the opportunity to share my experience and perspective because I hope that it would inspire many of you to get out there. You might not experience it in the way that I do, and you might not even enjoy it, but you will never know unless you try. ABOUT THE WRITER: Maha is a relationship counsellor who has been living in Dubai for almost two years. She grew up in Beirut, Lebanon, and lived for a few years in London while completing her PhD and training. She is a fitness and outdoor enthusiast and mostly enjoys rock climbing, hiking, high-intensity training, gymnastics, snowboarding and salsa dancing. You can follow her Instagram account @lifeofafirecracker.

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Pedal power :

The Velo Vixens

Words by: Emma Woodcok

fter moving to the UAE, my husband and I spent the first year gaining the obligatory “Dubai stone” and then a few more. It was only when someone posted a photograph of us taken before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Ball that we realised that we no longer recognised ourselves. I weighed myself for the first time in probably five years. 91kg was a big shock. At that point, we did the Atkins Diet. It worked brilliantly for Mark, the weight started falling off him. Although I did lose around 8kg, I’m not a meat eater, so it didn’t really work for me. My weight plateaued, and I just wasn’t motivated to exercise. The thought of going to the gym with all those fit girls was unbearable. Mark started to ride his old mountain bike around the Arabian Ranches and continued to get fitter. My father was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia and I flew back to the UK to be with him, but sadly he passed away. I stayed on to take care of my mum and when I returned almost three months later, I was back up to 90kg, was drinking too much and had started smoking again. I’d reached an all time low. So imagine my surprise when for my birthday, my darling husband bought me a road bike.

Not only that, he’d entered me in to the inaugural Spinney’s Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge that was to take place 14 weeks later! The Spinney’s Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge is a cycling event that takes place every December. Cycle Safe Dubai, run by Stewart Howison, get people from fat to fit in three months, running weekly rides on the run up to the event. To spur me on, Mark told me that we would ride it to raise money for the Leukaemia and Lymphoma Trust. On my first few rides with Mark, even getting round the Ranches perimetre (10km) was a huge struggle for me, but having an end goal and a willing training partner meant that I would persevere. Mark and I got up most mornings before the sun came up, and gradually my ride distances increased. I found peace on those rides, the roads were quiet before dawn and just the whirring of the wheels provides a kind of flow. It was like meditation in motion for me, completely immersive. I’m happy to report that I finished the Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge and have never looked back. uThe Vixens The Velo Vixens were formed after I chatted to some of the girls from another cycling club at the opening ceremony of the Dubai Cycle Course. Helen Rodd

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“I wouldn’t say there’s competition between men and women cyclists, but there’s definitely a lot of friendly banter!” is an amazing woman and a real inspiration for me. She is very involved with the Dubai Roadsters club and at the time, I was riding mainly with Cycle Safe Dubai. It seemed that the two clubs never really met, which meant that there were some great female riders that I never had the opportunity to cycle with. We committed to make a women only ride that would meet every Monday morning. We shared an absolute passion for cycling and I learned so much from riding with these strong, amazing women. I quickly noticed that riding with all women was a completely different experience from riding in a predominantly male group. Whilst I love riding with my husband and other mixed groups, I found I learned a great deal about cycling etiquette and riding techniques from these women. There is a very supportive and enthusiastic vibe about riding with just girls. Feedback is readily given and received, egos are checked at the door and strong trusting friendships are quickly built. We’d get back from our rides completely exhilarated. The aim of the Velo Vixens is to have a community Facebook

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OUTDOORUAE WOMEN’S ISSUE

page – just for women, where we can ask any questions about cycling in a closed environment without feeling embarrassed or intimidated. Nothing is too simple or too complicated. We talk a lot about our saddles! It’s also a place where you can post up when you are free for a ride and see who else is around. With over 270 girls on the page now, there’s always someone to ride with, whether it’s before work, after school drop off, evenings or weekends. Arranging to meet someone will make sure you don’t press snooze on that alarm. It’s free to join, there’s no membership fees and all our ride captains, or as we like to call them “Spokes Women” are volunteer Vixens. So far, the majority of our members are from the expat community and we’ve been growing by word of mouth. We have designed our own kit now, so we are easily recognisable in our black and turquoise jerseys with the vixen on the back. Last year, we did three mass participation rides, two for charity and one just for fun and we try to get as much coverage as possible in the local press in order to reach out to more women. We’ve started to get some interest from the Emirati women and that’s something we are obviously keen to grow, so we’re currently exploring ways we can encourage more local ladies to join us. We mostly ride on the amazing cycle paths around Dubai. There’s the 8km track out near Meydan in Nad Al Sheba. We meet there every other Monday evening and do group riding technique rides with our new joiners. We also play a little predictor game, where each rider has to guess how long it will take them to ride one loop – the rider who guesses closest to their actual time wins a prize. Every Monday and Wednesday mornings we ride either 50 or 85km around the beautiful Dubai Cycle Course on the Al Qudra Road, which is out past Arabian Ranches. There’s 136km of smooth, safe cycle track that runs

through the desert now and we ride past oryx and gazelles and get to see the locals exercising their falcons and camels, it really is a wonderful way to experience this beautiful place. uCycling for ladies In the past few years, cycling has exploded in popularity both here and worldwide. In the UAE we’ve found that typically only 10-12% of event participants are women. I’d love to see that percentage increase and I think with the introduction of equal prize money in certain events last year, like the Ramadan Night Race and the Liwa Challenge, the UAE is at the forefront of making those changes possible. We have a number of very strong women riders here now and a new vehicle to showcase their talents. On March 20th we have the Dubai Gran Fondo, the top 25% of each age group qualifies for the Amateur Road World Championships, and the UCI Masters Road World Championships, where the champions are awarded with the coveted rainbow jersey. Next year, who knows, perhaps we’ll get a Dubai Women’s Tour. Qatar has one, so I think we should too. The arrival of Liv, a women only brand, selling women’s specific bikes and apparel, is a clear indication that the region is ready for us. The Liv store has opened in Box Park, Al Wasl and is staffed only by women, which overcomes any fears women have about

Most memorable cycling moment? “That first 92 Cycle Challenge with my husband. I got a bit lost and ended up riding 105km, so I was pretty amazed at myself when I finished! Since then, I’ve ridden the Cape Argus in South Africa with 35,000 other cyclists, been on cycling holidays in Thailand and Italy and ridden the Olympic course in the UK with my brothers.”

walking into a bike shop! I think the introduction of women-only sportive and races would encourage more women to participate and the Velo Vixens are determined to influence this change. We mostly ride road bikes, but not everyone starts out with one. One of the best investments I have ever made was having a bike fit. Making sure that the saddle was at the right height for me and that I wasn’t overstretching has kept me injury free. A great pair of women specific shorts (the padding needs to be in the right place) and some good chamois cream make for a happy ride. If you are going for a post-ride coffee, it’s a good idea to take a change of shorts. Always wear a well fitting helmet, make sure it’s worn straight and not on the back of your head. We run regular workshops for women at our friendly local bike shops, where we learn to check our brakes and replace our inner tubes in case of a puncture. It feels good to be self sufficient. I have a box that I keep by the door. In it are my gloves, helmet, cycling shoes, spare tubes and pump. I know that any time I want to go for a ride, I can pick up my bike and my cycle box and I’m pretty much ready to go. Women can apply to Velo Vixens on Facebook www.facebook. com/groups/vvdxb or check out or photos on www.instagram. com/velovixens. We also have a blog www.tumblr.com/blog/ velovixensdubai where members share stories and photos from rides and events that they’ve done.

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Words by: Glaiza Seguia-Godinez Photos supplied by: Helen Rodd

here’s a lot of adventures to be had in the Middle East, but only if we are willing to find them. This has been true for the hiking scene, and Helen Rodd, 54, has been hiking the mountains of the UAE and Oman and leads group of women (and men) on hikes on a regular basis. Born and raised in Hong Kong and of Dutch descent, Helen has had an intrepid life living in New Zealand, Gabon, Oman, Fiji, Qatar and Pakistan, before moving to Dubai some 15 years ago. Helen has always been active. She is a former gymnastics coach, an active cyclist with the Dubai Roadsters and Velo Vixens and a part-time swimming coach for M&S Sports. Helen started hiking with her parents from a young age. Even when her three daughters were very young, Helen and her family would regularly take weekend camping and hiking trips. Helen would join groups on hikes that were led by other friends. Her courageous spirit led her to want to learn routes so she could lead groups of friends herself. “Hiking routes tend not to be sign posted in the region, so it is quite easy to get lost if you don’t know a route by heart, even with GPS. When the children left home and I had more time to do more hiking, I was having to rely on other people to take me because I didn’t know the route and I didn’t like that situation,” she explained. “So I started learning the routes. The hiking season (winter) in the region is quite short and with all of the outdoor events going on over weekends, we now tend to hike during the week.” When asked what she enjoys most about hiking, Helen said, “The bareness and ruggedness of the mountains in the region is extraordinary. People don’t often associate this with beauty but everything has its beauty. I love the remoteness of the mountains. They are actually quite close to the city and a lot of people don’t realise that this is on their

“Come and enjoy hiking in a region where there are still adventures to be had in unchartered territory.” doorstep. I love the peace of the mountains, the hospitality of local people we meet in villages along the way and the friendships I have made with fellow hikers. Also, a one-day hike really feels like a proper “get away or mini vacation” from city life.” But hiking is not only for the super elite in the UAE. “Absolutely not. There are different hikes for all different levels of ability. As with any exercise, a basic level of fitness is needed no matter what hike you do.” Helen describes a typical hiking day: “We go early morning as our hikes tend to be a full day, so a 5:30 a.m. start is pretty standard. The hikes are usually a group of two to eight people and are fun and very social, but that doesn’t mean they are easy. If you have never hiked and you don’t have a good level of fitness, I would say that the regular hikes that we do would be really tough. I do both less challenging and strenuous hikes, depending on who is joining me. When I take friends for the first time the usual feedback is that they loved it and they want to come back for more. They will probably be tired with sore muscles the next day but really content and happy with what they have achieved and seen.” Outdoor activities are growing in popularity in the UAE and hiking is no exception to this. Helen sees a great future for hiking in the country. Helen comments that there are now more women, including Emirati women taking

advantage of different outdoor recreation. Based on her experience as a female hiker, it is enjoyable and safe to go hiking in the UAE and Oman. “I have often gone hiking with one other female or just with my daughter, and we have been offered tea by some villagers. They are so friendly and at no time have I ever felt that we were in danger,” she said. When asked what precautions Helen takes for safety, she advises, “I always give a kit list to people who have not hiked before. I always carry a comprehensive first aid kit, a survival blanket and a GPS. I take a mobile phone as well, but there is not always reception so you cannot rely on this. Also, hikers should never go solo. Because of the uneven terrain, small ledges, deep wadis, ravines and dry waterfalls, you could fall and break a leg, or worse, and if you are by yourself, potentially without mobile reception, you are really on your own. There is always someone willing to go hiking with so this can easily be avoided.” Helen has here favourite spots too: “My favourite hike is Leopard Wadi. We name hikes according to things we find on them – so if you Google “Leopard Wadi hike” you probably won’t find it. It derived its name because a friend found a leopard skin there the first time he did it. Another of my favourites is Cup of Tea Hike, named because the villagers on this particular hike are very friendly and always offer us a cup of tea.” But Helen still has some dream trails to accomplish. “The Musandam Peninsula from Khasab all the way to the north in Oman is unexplored terrain. No one has done it. People have been exploring trails through that region, but so far the whole trip has not been accomplished. It has extremely steep cliffs, it would have to be an overnight hike and drinking water could be a problem. It is exciting living in a region where there are still adventures to be had in unchartered territory and that is something that I love about living in the UAE.”

HIKING KIT LIST nComprehensive first aid kit nHead torch (flashlight) n3L of water nLunch and snacks nGood hiking rucksack nGood hiking shoes. They’ve got to have good sole. I always tell people that if they bring trainers and they wear them for the first hike they might rip because the rocks are so sharp, so you need something that doesn’t have that knitting mesh because it will just get torn. Because it’s warm here, lightweight is quite nice. You don’t want the heavy boots that you wear in Europe nHiking shorts nI prefer dri-fit t-shirts and bring extra t-shirts nLight coat nHiking poles nSunglasses, sunscreen and hat nReading glasses nCameras

Dana, Kylie and Sune

If you think that riding motorbikes, participating in Baja races and rallies is just a manâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thing, well think again. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not surprising that nowadays, when everything has become more unisex, women are becoming more interested in these type of sports. Here are some gorgeous ladies from the local motocross circuit sharing their beginnings and encouraging fellow females to partake in the joy of riding.

Photo by: Daniel Birkhofer

Dana Miskulnig

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had my first experience riding a motorbike at about nine years old and I almost drove an automatic bike straight into a standing car. When I was 16, my dad had just given my mum and me a Yamaha YZ250 for Christmas, and that’s when it all really started. A few weeks later, my dad got himself a brand new KTM 450 EXC and owned it for about two weeks before I borrowed it from him indefinitely (he’s gotten a 530 EXC in the meantime). From then on it was all about getting home early on weekends to go riding the next morning. Since I started riding I’ve tried out any bike I can get my hands on, from taking an R1

on the track to riding trial bikes in the forest or going for an adventure through Africa. Riding has become a huge part of my life and something I can’t go without. I’d even go as far to say that it brought me back to my senses when I needed it most. I’ve met so many amazing people through it and have learnt many life lessons, sometimes the hard way. I think the hardest part is getting back on the bike after your first big crash and trusting yourself and the bike again. Girls shouldn’t feel scared of the sport because it seems like a ‘manly’ or dangerous sport. At the end of the day, when

Kylie Slowe

have been riding since I was 13 and now 21. I started riding in the desert with a Suzuki 400 quad bike back in Doha, Qatar where there weren’t any motocross tracks or Bajas back then. I had always wanted to be involved in racing but didn’t have the opportunity to do so until my family and I moved to Abu Dhabi when I was 15. That’s when my father, Allan Slowe bought me my first dirt bike ( YZ 125 ) and he supported and got me the right training I needed to participate in the Dubai Motocross races (DMX). Back then there was never a women’s class and I was put in the 125 class where I raced against guys for a few years. This was a good Photo by: Tim Ansell experience for me at the time, the first time I was racing against I had to learn to be aggressive girls, in completely different terand fast if I wanted to do well. rain, which meant I had to change DMX was a great starting point my whole riding technique. This for me with racing as it taught was a great way to push my perme technique and safety. sonal abilities on a bike. I then moved to South Africa When I turned 19 I moved for a year to study, and that’s back to Dubai for work and where I got my first four stroke that’s when I got a SX250F for dirt bike, CR250F and competed desert riding, I had no intenin the National Motocross races, tions of racing as I wasn’t aware this was a completely different there were any woman racing in racing environment for me. For

the helmets are on, everyone’s just out there to ride and have a good time, and you even get a little more respect for being a girl who rides. One thing I’ve always kept in mind when I have an ‘oh sh*t’ moment, ‘when in doubt, flat out’. Dubai at the time. Although that all changed, when I heard that women competed in the Baja Desert races. I had never done desert racing before and I had to train myself in terms of different fitness techniques and riding style until I felt comfortable enough in the soft sand. Studying Sports Science and focusing on sports specific training for motorsports or endurance riding has benefitted me greatly. It has been the best combination being able to combine my training, knowledge and riding skills, I have seen an improvement in my racing this year because of this. Racing this season in the desert Baja is probably the best racing season I’ve ever had. Seb Sports and my family have been fantastic with regards to supporting me in each race for pitting and servicing my bike. It has been an incredible racing experience and I look forward to next year’s season with the rest of the girls. I would like to encourage any woman out there who would like to get into racing, to go for it! It has been the best decision I ever made, I couldn’t picture my life without riding. It will change your life for the better.

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Suné Schäffler

y father and younger brother taught me how to ride a motorbike when I was a teenager. Riding out in the fields and valleys was something we did together on holidays when we visited friends on a farm where I grew up in South Africa. I’ve been living in Dubai for just over three years now working in logistics transporting horses. I started riding bike in the desert with my husband and friends shortly after I got my first motorbike, a KTM 150SX, in August 2012. Riding in the desert was very different to what I was used to, so it took quite a bit of patience from my husband to teach me how to go about it. Starting with a less powerful bike was the best choice for me until I learned how to better handle the bike and manoeuvre in the sand. It is quite a workout riding out in the dunes and the more you practice the easier it gets. I now ride a KTM 300XC. Bike riding out in the dunes has become our Friday morning

thing to do with friends. It is the highlight of our week! It’s not only about the adrenaline rush or thrill you get when you ride out with a group of friends chasing dune after dune, but also about all the new people you get to meet and amazing views you come across. Some views are just breathtaking. A few popular spots to ride out to include Fossil Rock, Sky Dive Dubai or Rugby Sevens. One of my personal favourites is the stop at ‘Cattle Grid’ where we get to fuel up and fill our bellies with a delicious egg and sausage bread roll. Family and friends encouraged me last year to enter the 2014/2015 Emirates Desert Championship (Baja). I’ve never raced before, so I was very nervous to try it, but it’s been an absolute blast. It’s well organised and the tracks are well planned and marked. I still get nervous before a race, but for completely different reasons. There are six rounds in the season. We are now at Round 5. I finished

second place in the Ladies Cup at my first race. In Round 1, I was so stoked and then managed first place in Round 2, second place in Round 3 and first place in Round 4. I’ve managed to maintain an average overall position in the top 60 out of a 100 riders and I’m currently leading the Ladies Cup.

but amazing at the same time. I often saw surprised faces when I stopped on the petrol stations or in the mountains; girl on the bike and alone. I was often asked “Are you not worried?” In October 2014, I came to Dubai to work for Crazy Camel Racing as a tour guide, it was my first experience with bike on sand. And I would really like to thank James West for giving me this great opportunity and for his patience, because riding the bike in the desert is very different and definitely more difficult than the street bike. When you want to start riding a bike in the desert you should know at least the basics. That means knowing how motorbikes work and how to be confident on the road, because the main aim

of riding in the desert is to enjoy it! You will need to learn many new skills anyway, like what to do when you get stuck in the dunes. And trust me on this, you will get stuck many, many times and you will be exhausted digging your bike out. Many people will tell you, that it’s too dangerous for women, but don’t get discouraged. There are so amazing places in desert and you will be so amazed with all the wildlife – gazelles, camels and more. It’s just magical and stunning. It’s about self-confidence, endurance, patience and passion. Once you try it, you will never stop.

Daniela Ozanova

’m Daniela from Slovakia. I started riding bikes in 2005 and I wanted to start with motocross, but my parents were strongly against it, because I was only 16 then and I was still going to school so I had no choice. After long arguments I purchased a street bike, the Honda XR125. When I finished school, I was working hard in order to buy KTM Duke 690 and I started with longer trips. When I finished my work, I just sat on my bike, with no maps, no GPS, only a few money in my pocket, toothbrush and camera, and left my home. I’ve visited 11 countries in Europe, so I know what it means to ride your bike alone, thousands of kilometres away from my house, in the rain, in wet gear, in the dark cold and lost. It was scary,

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Maria Miskulnig

OUTDOORUAE WOMEN’S ISSUE

hy do I ride? Well, it started off as a pure ‘protection mechanism’ for myself as my husband, who in his younger days was driving Rallies, got into his ‘midlife crisis’ and our daughter simultaneously slid into the ‘teenage crisis’ phase. A way out for both of them was to let off steam by getting into motorbiking, so they have ‘meaning in life’ again. I myself had very little interest in cars, bikes or any other motorised vehicle apart from getting me to work and back. My calculation was very simple: I can either stay at home and worry myself crazy if and when they will get back safely again, or I just join them. So I started the rather gruelling attempt to learn how to stay on a motorbike as I clearly had no talent in manoeuvring my blue beast through the sand. Needless to say that our

daughter Dana got the hang of it after the first couple of outings. Thanks to the endless patience and tireless efforts of my husband Josef and our friends, Peter and Klaus, who never gave up on me and must have picked up that bike and myself a thousand times. I felt pretty confident after the first season of riding the dunes around Margham and Maleha. The second year changed my attitude and rather than being the observer, watching out for my loved ones I started to thoroughly enjoy the sport. I got faster and more confident and loved our weekend outings more and more. I enjoyed the scenery of unspoilt desert, was fascinated by the various animals we encountered on our trips and eventually felt like ‘waltzing’ through the dunes with a big smile of enjoyment on my face, a feeling that can only be topped

Abi Shepard

t all started when I asked for a motorbike for my birthday. I thought there was more chance of the birthday fairy bringing me a KTM 450 than a WRX rally car (which was what I really wanted). I was lucky enough to have a few long-suffering and patient friends that helped me limp through my first summer learning to ride, picking the bike (and me) up a thousand times until I could (finally, almost) manage without my own sweep team. There is nothing easy about learning to ride in the sand. I spent more time that first summer with my face in the sand, limping or dying of dehydration. I spent more time digging out and dragging down the bike from sand dunes than I did actually riding it. I learned what a ‘sprocket’ was only because I was so used to seeing it buried. Actually, let’s be honest - I still spend a fair

amount of my time with my rear sprocket buried! But make no mistake, when the skill set finally clicks in all the effort is so worth it. When the sun rises up over the vast expanse of the desert, the view is so awe-inspiring and humbling at the same time it affects you on such an intrinsic level. At that moment, nothing else exists or matters. Just you, the bike and the desert. It’s beauty personified. There really is nothing better in my world than riding my bike.

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by skiing through fresh powder snow. My fear of falling or being hurt was pretty soon contained as I realised that if one is sensible and knows their limits the risk is limited. You are basically in control yourself unlike driving a car on a busy road where it is not enough to be a good driver yourself as there are dozens of others around you who might not and possibly endanger your life with their inabilities. I’m not a big fan of motocross. It’s tedious, dull and bores me to tears. Round and round in circles, I can’t think of anything worse. The desert is the only place to be! I understand why women don’t generally gravitate towards riding as their sport de choix. You have to be willing to take some pretty hard knocks, you have to be quite fit and very strong, the initial money outlay can be off-putting. But on the other side, the people that you meet riding are the nicest, friendliest, most supportive bunch of mates you will ever make. I have never once lacked for a helping hand, a ride, a spare part. People have given generously of their time, their spares, their CamelBak that they don’t use anymore. Any initial intimidation any new comer might feel will be fleeting. I promise. Two things never missing from my handbag: Deep Heat and Voltaren. I would like to thank Dave (for buying the bike), Wayne (for picking it up) and Steve (the best motocross dad ever).

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World-class triathletes Words by: Cindy Stadelmann

rguably the most famous and successful triathlete ever was a woman. Chrissie Wellington from the UK was dominant in the Ironman distance and retired unbeaten. Since 2000, female participation in triathlon in the USA has grown to nearly 40% of annual members. Not many sports achieve these high numbers of female

participants. There are many factors that may have led to this growth. Maybe it was Sydney 2000, which included coverage of the first ever women’s triathlon in the Olympic Games. This was the most watched non-US Olympic Games in history with 111 million people tuning-in to all or part of the broadcasts. In this supplement of OutdoorUAE, we highlight three

world-class performers who are living and training amongst us. The UAE has a perfect virtually all year round climate for training. Carefully managed, it is even possible to maintain high levels of fitness during the summer. As a result there are many sportswomen who combine living here in the UAE with competing at an international level as well as pursuing demanding careers.

Jelena Vasiljevic Jelena is originally from Kula in Serbia but has been here in the Emirates for five years, two in Abu Dhabi and three in Dubai. Not all that time was spent in triathlon. Her first race was only in 2013 at the 2XU Mamzar Olympic distance. Since then she has amassed a number of high placed finishes in international races that anyone would be proud of: • Abu Dhabi International Triathlon 2014 Long Course 1st in age group • Ironman Switzerland 2014 3rd in age group • Half Ironman Budapest 2014 2nd in age group • Dubai International Triathlon 2014 – 1st in age group Jelena was always a swimmer since she was small, but never ran or cycled, so in 2012 she bought a basic, entry level

Jelena a swimmer from a young age bike and started joining other triathletes in their training. Unlike other triathletes, swimming is her favourite discipline and luckily her job is a swim coach at Jumeirah Beach Hotel. When talking about people who have inspired her, she sees Chrissie Wellington as a great role model for all athletes as she is super strong mentally and physically. Her friends would describe Jelena as active and very determined when it comes to sports and work. Positive, cheerful,

Deirdre Casey Deirdre or Didge is another Dubai resident who has been here for just over five years and she absolutely loves the lifestyle here. “They have been five fabulous years. My husband and I never take it for granted and are very grateful for the opportunities it has given us.” 18

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Deidre racing hard

social and friendly. Her favourite restaurant in Dubai is Latitude in Jumeirah Beach Hotel and amongst her dislikes are long, windy bike rides, July in Dubai, laziness and cooking. The future is bright for Jelena and she is training for Barcelona 70.3 in May this year and hopes to qualify for the World Championship. “Coming to Dubai after turning just 19 was a big step for me. But it was worth risking as it turned out as a great thing because I just love my life here.” Although Deirdre has represented Ireland at age group level in both the European and World Championships, her first triathlon was only in 2009. A modest Irish girl, Deirdre said she had never cycled more than 20km on a bike and run more than 5km before that, although she was a hockey superstar. She also tries to convince us that, in her own words: “She could swim reasonably

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well”. Anyone who trains with her on a Saturday morning at the beach would argue “reasonably well” could also mean “pretty fast”. Again with more reluctance, she admits to a few decent results in the last five years. One gold and three silvers at World Championship level in the Sprint and Olympic distances. Totally dedicated to triathlon but also working as a Financial Controller for LEGOLAND® Dubai, Deirdre has recently obtained a professional triathlon license at the end of 2014 and now lines up every race at the front of the pack. Juggling a professional sports career and demanding career is tough but Deirdre somehow manages. “LEGOLAND® Dubai is such a great project and team to be working with. I’m already excited about the park opening in 2016. It’s going to be awesome!” Not surprisingly with such a

Deirdre over Dubai busy life, Deirdre is not keen on cooking and cleaning. “I’m useless at both and always have been. I’m going to blame my mum for that one. She did everything for me.” As for the future, Deirdre decided to step up to the Half Ironman distance (1.9km swim, 90km bike and 21km run) last summer. And you’ve guessed it. Her coach Nick Tipper had prepared her well and flying over to the States she won her age and qualified for the World

Merle Talviste Merle is another world-class triathlete who was inspired to start triathlon when she moved to Dubai just two years ago. “I went to the TriDubai sea swim having no attention at all to start doing triathlon. To be honest, I knew very little about that sport.” Her first race was only in 2014 at the Roy Nasr Memorial. In her next big race in Luxembourg (Half Ironman distance) she qualified for the World Championships in Canada. Not a bad start to a triathlon career although Merle admits she had competed in track and field events for nine years before. Like all of the triathletes in this article, swimming had been a

passion for Merle and she has spent hours teaching herself and improving her technique. The challenge and the analysis of technique especially in the swim leg of a triathlon is something that really appeals to Merle. Merle is proudly from Estonia

Ironman Championship in Kona. She is competing in all three Middle East Challenge events; Dubai, Oman and Bahrain so watch out for her. You’ll probably see Deirdre out cycling at Al Qudra, one of her favourite places in Dubai. “It is such a magnificent facility that has been built and being able to cycle through the sand dunes is amazing. Sometimes I feel people don’t realise how lucky we are to have a facility like this on our doorstep.” and speaks three languages: English, Swedish and Estonian. She moved to Dubai to be a landscape architect which keeps her busy when not training. However she still finds energy to fit in time to share her triathlon passion and knowledge with others. When she manages to squeeze in some rest time you will probably find her enjoying Japanese food. Athletes have a number of common personality traits and Merle thinks her friends would describe her as “stubborn when it comes to the things that she loves and believes in.” Triathlon is a great way to see the world and testing oneself against others in competition appeals to Merle. In 2015, she has races planned in Austria, Chicago and Asia. At the end of that there will be a well-earned rest in December during the off season. No doubt you will see all of these triathletes out and about in the UAE training and racing. We hope they inspire you to get out yourself and enjoy the fantastic sport of swim, bike and run.

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GAIAM Yoga Beginners Kit 125 AED/QAR 13.6 OMR

Available at GO Sport stores at Dubai Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall and Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in the UAE; Villaggio Mall and City Centre Doha in Qatar; and Muscat Grand Mall in Oman

New to yoga? No problem. Whether you’re seeking increased flexibility or a workout that challenges your whole body, this is a great way to get started. The alignment yoga mat features guides to correctly position your body during poses. Modify difficult poses, feel supported, and increase your flexibility with the yoga block. The yoga strap invites you to increase your range of motion and deepen your stretches, and the Yoga Beginner’s Experience DVD features two yoga workouts and a meditation preparation.

GAIAM Restore Hot and Cold Massage Therapy Kit 150 AED/QAR 16.3 OMR

Available at GO Sport stores at Dubai Mall, Abu Dhabi Mall and Bawabat Al Sharq Mall in the UAE; Villaggio Mall and City Centre Doha in Qatar; and Muscat Grand Mall in Oman

The Restore Hot and Cold Therapy Kit delivers gentle, controlled tension release to hard-working muscles in the back, shoulders, glutes and feet. The kit includes two Therapy Balls, one smooth and one textured, filled with a unique compound that enables them to safely retain either heat or cold. You control the temperature, motion and level of pressure for fully customisable therapy.

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FitFlop SURFA™ 265 AED

Available at Modell’s Sporting Goods Minimal, multi-purpose, a bit addictive, our super-groovy new SURFA sandals have wide, foot-hugging webbing straps, a soft fabric toe-post and our “magic” Microwobbleboard™ midsoles, making them the ultimate in relaxed cool. Good with a wetsuit while you wax your board, with cut-off jeans at the beach bar, for to-and-from your yoga class. We engineer every pair of FitFlop™ sandals with our amazing, multi-density midsoles. They’re ergonomic, cush, pressurediffusing and totally “wunderbar” if you’re going to walk a lot! • On our original Microwobbleboard midsole • Generous fit • Relaxed, classic design for everyday wear • Fabric toe-post for comfort • Biomechanically engineered, comfortable sandals • Built-in arch contour

Under Armour Speedform Gemini 559 AED

Available at Modell’s Sporting Goods Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre Slide the UA Speedform® Gemini on and you immediately want to run. The precision-fit upper – crafted in a clothing factory – is unbelievably comfortable. New Charged Cushioning delivers every advantage at once: energy return, impact protection and adaptive support for every runner. UA Speedform® Construction. Precision-fit upper feels custom-made for your foot. Charged Cushioning Innovation. Superior impact protection and the best in energy return for amazing feel. Molded Seamless Heel Cup. The secret ingredient to fit and comfort. Smooth Ultrasonic Seams. Designed for absolutely zero distractions.

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Jobe Grace Wakeboard 2015 collection 2,050 AED (previous price 2,595 AED) Available only at Al Yousuf Motors across UAE Progress gracefully. And progressing is the one thing you will definitely do on Jobe’s all-new 2015 Grace! Maxine’s pro model is simply a match made in heaven for all you park rippers out there! With a bigger tip and tail, this board guarantees all the strength, consistency and balance you’ll need when pressing on rails. Its aggressive three-stage rocker give you ridiculous pop off kickers and this rocker combined with Grace’s long, deep channels also allows you to really dig in that edge for your air trickery. So what are you waiting for? Go hit up your local spot and shred with Grace! • Three-stage construction • ABS sidewall • Blended core • Flex • Hit base • Slider fins • Press technology

Alpinestars Stella T-GP Plus Jacket 900 AED (previous price 1,000 AED)

Available only at Al Yousuf Motors across UAE It’s ladies turn now! Taking styling cues from the Stella GPPlus Leather Jacket, the Stella T-GP Plus is exclusively engineered for girls. Pre-curved sleeves and a D-ring waist adjustment combine for a sleek fit, while the zippered air intakes help you stay cool when things heat up. • Constructed from PU coated, 600D Polyester fabric for enhanced strength, durability and abrasion resistance • Pre-curved sleeves for greater riding comfort • Removable CE certified Bio Armor elbow and shoulder protectors are slim, lightweight and offer exceptional impact protection • Chest pad compartment with PE padding (Bionic Chest Guard available as accessory) • Back protector compartment with PE padding (CE certified Bio Armor Back Protector available as accessory) • D-Ring waist adjustment and wrist flap with Velcro and textile tabs

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You gotta go to Mo’s For all your sporting goods, footwear, apparel and fan gear needs Founded in 1889, Modell’s Sporting Goods is America’s oldest, family-owned and operated retailer of sporting goods, athletic footwear, active apparel and fan gear, committed to providing a convenient and compelling shopping experience for the athlete, fan and fitness expert in all of us. Modell’s offers customers an assortment of top brands in sporting goods equipment, footwear and active apparel for every level of play year round.

The retailer operates 155+ stores. Modell’s Sporting Goods is now open in the United Arab Emirates. Modell’s Sporting Goods stores Dubai: Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre Abu Dhabi: World Trade Center Mall, Khalidiyah Mall Al Ain: Hili Mall

FITBIT CHARGE HR Every beat counts

Make every beat count with Charge HR – an advanced tracking wristband that gives you automatic, continuous heart rate and activity tracking right on your wrist all day, during workouts and beyond. See heart rate 24/7 to get more accurate all-day calorie burn, reach your target workout intensity, maximise training with simplified zones and get all day health insights. See all the best stats like steps, distance, floors climbed and sleep quality to make the most of your day. Stay connected with Caller ID and wirelessly sync to your smartphone and computer to monitor trends. Get the motivation you need to push yourself further every step, every beat, every day. Retail price of 729 AED and available at all Modell’s Sporting Goods

CITYTRAIL™ X-SCREAM 3D W Run across a diverse urban landscape with a shoe that delivers 3D Fit, 3D Grip and 3D Ride. Built on a dynamic cushioning platform, the X-SCREAM 3D W is our most agile CITYTRAIL™ running shoe. Available at Modell’s Sporting Goods Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre for 575 AED.

SHOCK ABSORBER ACTIVE SPORTS PADDED BRA

• Removable padding to enhance shape and comfort • Plunging neckline for feminine look • Soft, non-rub hook and eye • Moisture-wicking, high performance fabrics • Available in 70-80A, 70-85 B/C/D • Retail price: 235 AED SUN BUM ORIGINAL SUNSCREEN LOTION Sun Bum sunscreens are carefully formulated to protect those of us who live and love in the sun. • Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB Protection with Parsol 1789 • Water Resistant 80 minutes (the highest possible rating) • Paraben Free no harmful ingredients • PABA Free that will not irritate the skin and safe for kids • Oil Free that will not clog the pores that lead to breakouts • Vitamin E anti oxidants that promotes younger looking skin • Hypoallergenic will not cause allergic reaction • Completely Vegan and Gluten Free made from plants and friuts • Not tested on monkey or any other animals. Very rich in Vitamin E, aloe vera and coco butter. Retail price of 141 AED and available at Modell’s Sporting Goods. OutdoorUAE Special Supplement

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Taking the reins Words by: Martina Boor

f you had called me an outdoorsy girl a decade ago, I would have laughed. Well I guess I am still laughing now as my days are spent in places most of the Dubai residents have never heard of and never will. I can easily rack up 800km in two days and I worry about sun protection a lot. I keep spare change of clothes in my car and always know what time the sunrise starts the following day. While being from a sort of ‘horsey’ family, after all, my uncle is an Olympic show jumping medallist and the rest of the family being somewhat connected to horses, I have never considered a career in the sport or anything remotely related to it. It was only after spending15 years in a corporate world when I began to think about not only changing the career path, but the actual lifestyle. I have decided to break the cycle of office-sandwich-office-hometravel with the occasional outing before it breaks me and makes me numb, boring and fat. Don’t take me wrong, I did enjoy my life enough; the office with a view, efficient PA and business class travel. Above all, I enjoyed the pay landing in my bank

account with almost military precision. The focus is on the schedule here, it wasn’t the money, it was the assurance of having the money. Every. Single. Month. Leaving behind a successful career is not easy and rather than plain stupidity, I’d like to call it gutsy. Although there are days where I also call it crazy and irresponsible. It calls for sureness, conviction, belief in maybe not yourself but in knowing that everything will, ultimately work out. And it did and I did end up working with horses, much to my family’s horror and delight. More of the horror part, really. I now own a tack shop called Horseworld where we specialise in quality equipment for both horse and rider; specially for dressage and show jumping although we can really kit out any rider be it a ‘happy hacker’, first-time horse owner or simply a riding school student. The shop is based inside the Falcon & Heritage Centre in Meydan and I also operate a mobile retail

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unit inside the Arabian Ranches Polo Club. I specialise in saddles and spend my days ‘saddle fitting’. What I do is make sure that the saddle, being the most important piece of riding equipment, fits the horse and rider equally well. Saddle too narrow for horse’s back? Is the saddle too wide for the pony and not distributing rider’s weight equally over the saddle area? Imagine yourself running RAK Half Marathon in a pair of shoes one size too small. Or running Spartan Race in shoes that are simply too big for you, they slip every time you take a new step. Too small or too big, both of these will not only hinder your performance but also contribute to future injuries When you start compensating for the pain, shifting your balance, using your body inefficiently. The ill-fit will affect your mind and morals. The horses are athletes and we ask them to perform over jumps in dressage arenas, over long distances or simply cantering around the dunes; we, as their human trainers, owe them pain-free experience while performing at our chosen discipline. And this is what I do; ensuring the horse’s comfort when fitting a saddle while making sure the rider’s balance and position are optimal for the type of discipline he or she is concentrating on. I apply physics, really, work with

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balance, pressure, weight distribution and horse’s conformation and rider’s biomechanics. Lots of playing around with ponies and (mostly) really nice and equally minded people. I’m outdoors, most of the days of the year. Yes, even in the summer, at first dawn, before it gets too hot for the horses to exercise. I am on my second coffee when breakfast presenters start their shows. In addition to the retail and saddle fitting, I also run corporate Leadership & Communication training seminars that follow a globally recognised and well proven technique referred to as Equine Assisted Learning, whereby my colleague and I guide trainees through a series of specially designed groundwork activities with horses. You don’t need to be a rider to take part in these; you don’t even have to have a previous horse experience. And how does it work? Horses are herd animals and need to know who is leading at all times. They simply need to have a leader and they need to trust him. They don’t care about a person’s title; they are inspired by a person’s clarity of intent, presence and actions. With the capability of seeing through the smallest of inconsistencies in emotion and intentions, horses help individu-

als to re-examine their habits and patterns so that they may connect in a true and authentic manner. We work with middle and top management levels and you would be surprised how many of the top ranks expect the horse to respond based on what’s printed on their business cards. Normally, natural leaders emerge, authoritarians go home with food for thought and the best part is when people pause in their tracks and think about their abilities and weaknesses. Horses are wonderful animals that bring the best and the worst in us, teach us about ourselves; how to control our emotions, how to respond with calm, they make us think about small things within the full scenario situation. A famous horseman once said, “Horses are like mirrors, sometimes you like what you see and sometimes you don’t.” I enjoy running these seminars intensely. It combines the best of my previous corporate life and my current self-employed status. I could not recommend the workshops enough to any company who wants its management to focus on true leadership and communication in their daily schedules. With our lives resembling a long-distance race, we need to

take a pause from time to time, take a deep breath, analyse and ultimately realise how good we really are. So this is how I spend my days. Running a retail shop, fitting saddles and working with stressed managers making their lives more efficient. I drive for long hours, get to visit the humblest desert stables and also some beautiful palaces with five-star equine accommodations, talk to people from all over the word who have the common interest as I do, which is the welfare of the horse. I am also a single mum to a 20-month old boy and while being self-employed motherhood does have the tendency to keep me awake in the middle of the night worrying a lot (and worrying about everything). It also gives me an opportunity to take my little son around the country and raise him (while on the job) to be a kind person with love for people and animals. My advise to anyone wanting to start their own business in the outdoor field is that it is ok to be afraid. It is ok to feel your heart stop about a hundred times per day. But the only way is to go ahead and do it because the day will come when you will regret not giving it a go. But have a Plan B. Martina Boor is the Managing Partner for Horseworld Trading. Contact her at www.horseworld.me, www.thehorseconnection.me and martina@horseworld.me.

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Words by: Angelika Whitaker

irt Skirts MTB is a group of women who love to ride their mountain bikes in the unique landscape of UAE mountains. Our mission is to empower, inspire and encourage more ladies to join in and grow local community of women mountain bikers who ride unique trails of the UAE. Mountain biking is one of the most dangerous sports around. Conquering steep rocky climbs and gnarly descends, winding up and down loose gravel tracks and constantly facing unpredictable changes in terrain, oh and did we mention you are doing all this on just two wheels? In spite of being a high-risk sport, mountain biking teaches women to believe in themselves, overcome fears, keep negative thoughts at bay and be the best they can be on the bike and in life. Why in life? Because it is a sport that forces you to persevere, face fears and only allows positive and encouraging thoughts into your brain. Connection is unmistakable. Mountain biking is rewarding in so many ways, and we truly believe that

more women need to know this sport exists and is in fact incredibly popular amongst female population in so many countries. The idea to start a ladies MTB club was born long back when one girl from a beautiful mountainous spot in Arctic Circle, who was very passionate about outdoors, moved to Dubai. Here she followed the encouragement from her husband (advanced rider) to try mountain biking as a way of connecting with nature outside the city of Dubai, and also staying fit. She ended up riding with male dominated clubs by following endless four-wheel drive tracks and (at the time) hardly developed single trails. More often than not her rides ended with feeling discouraged, often injured and simply frustrated. But instead of giving in to her insecurities, she understood she has something to work toward. “We all know that men and women learn differently. When it comes to learning the skill of mountain biking, ‘just go faster’ or ‘point and shoot’, really doesn’t cut it. Women often communicate, interpret and digest information that is presented differently from men. So riding in

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a female only group can be a revelation and a relief for so many.” So that girl started to look for a female ride buddy, and she persevered by constantly asking people to spread the word that she is looking for someone to ride mountains with that can relate to her problems on the bike and share thoughts and overcome the obstacles. She was looking for a ride buddy. And yes, she found one. After a quick introduction and a chat about

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OUTDOORUAE WOMEN’S ISSUE

struggles in finding someone who understands the technicalities of a female riding these two girls (Angelika Whitaker and Canadian rider Nadia Petrossi) have formed the first UAE ladies mountain biking group, the Dirt Skirts MTB. The Facebook group page has become their social outlet. “We knew there must be other girls like us that maybe looking for company and motivation”. And yes, there were many! With Dirt Skirts it is a lot about sharing time and connecting with other women riders. Overwhelming number of ladies view mountain biking as “too hardcore”. During our rides women are exposed to riders of varying capabilities and everyone is still called and treated as a mountain biker and appreciated for being courageous. With correct practice and a supportive and encouraging environment, participants then attempt and achieve the so feared skills. And with their success, their view of mountain biking opens up – and that is precious! We often get asked: I just bought a mountain bike and I’m really excited to get out on the trails, but I’m brand new to sport. Do I need more experience to join the group? We say the best way to get experience is to ride. We organise Saturday beginners ride on a monthly basis in Hatta Trail Centre, where you can find groomed, smooth and flowing

beginner-friendly green single track route and a skill practice area. Women frequently get concerned with the fact that they might not be able to keep up. In cycling terms, when you can’t keep up with the group you are riding with and they ride on without you, it’s called getting “dropped”. It’s no fun. And nothing discourages a new rider faster. We have an agreement within the group that we do not “drop” our riders, whatever level you are at. Our group is all about camaraderie and support, we push each other to go faster, ride further and try new techniques. We cheer each other on whether it’s at the finish line or taking on that rocky descent for the first time. What matters to us on our rides is your attitude. Are you ready to try something new and have some fun? Come and join us, get on your bike and discover what a thrill mountain biking can be. What you will find with Dirt

Skirts is encouragement and support. You’ll find a network of women to ride with. You’ll find fun, fitness and friendship. Zero intimidation. Zero pressure. Let’s bring UAE community of women mountain bikers together, ride together, and learn together with and aim to add power to women’s cycling movement, as it is beginning to gain traction it deserves! We hope to see more women riding bikes on their own terms without being intimidated. You can join our group on Facebook, Dirt Skirts MTB, to get all the updates on location, time and type of rides. Distances we ride: Our beginner group rides could be anywhere from 5-15km. Faster rides may run from 15-30km. Rides maybe shorter if group stops to work on specific skills or challenging areas. The rides may be longer if groups are training for a race. Where we ride: Hatta MTB Trail Centre offers fast flowing smooth single tracks that make you smile as you ride down. The trail centre currently offers green (beginnerfriendly), blue (for intermediate riders) and red (for advanced riders) trails. Showka network of trails that has been built purely by volunteers is also our playground. What to bring: Please, if you come for a ride with us, bring a good working mountain bike (if you don’t have one, plenty of Dubai bike shops have mountain bikes for hire), a helmet is a must, plus water (hydration pack). It’s a good idea to have a snack. Cycling shorts, not strictly a requirement, but sure makes those longer rides a whole lot more enjoyable!

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Noura for yoga N oura El-Imam, the founder of Yogalates Bliss in Dubai, is a registered yoga and pilates teacher, outdoor enthusiast, a foodie fanatic, a rock climbing adventurist, a travel addict and an entrepreneur at heart, constantly dreaming, visualising and planning. Born and raised in the multicultural hub of the United Arab Emirates, Noura graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration & Integrated Marketing Communications and worked as the Senior Marketing

Executive at one of Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest publishing houses, ITP, before landing into the health and fitness sector, which is her absolute passion. With that realisation, she was able to confidently embark on her own and launch Yogalates Bliss in Dubai after returning from an inspiring yoga and surf retreat in Bali and seeing the need, niche and craving by residents to flex and strengthen outdoors. The biggest challenge she faced was not knowing where to start, but she trusted her organic approach in launching the business from running her consistent and popular signature Yogalates sessions across beaches and parks. Fast forward to five years, she now meticulously organises top calibre yoga teacher trainings led by international senior guest teachers, retreats to Bali, adventure trips to Oman, organic foods delivered to your doorstep

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and gorgeous lightweight clothes to train in. She truly believes in a 360 overall health and wellness lifestyle while preaching the outdoors as much as possible. She is now the Wellness Brand Ambassador for Fraser Suites by Dubai Media City, managing a strong team of two exceptional Yogalates teachers, combining effective core strengthening and stability exercises to build endurance, strength and tone while dissolving muscular tension, improving flexibility and mobility in the joints. She strongly encourages ladies to take the leap and step into her outdoor friendly Yogalates session by the pool, for a head to toe invigorating workout while soaking in fresh air, releasing anxiety and muscular tension all at the same time.

Check out www.yogalatesblissindubai.com

n recent years there have been more and more women getting on the water and competing at the top level of water sports around the world. It is encouraging to see more women at the forefront of achievement in water sports, such as Iballa Moreno in windsurfing, or the Team SCA ladies currently racing in the Volvo Ocean Race. Watercooled have been encouraging women’s participation in water sports since starting in the UAE in 2012. The Watercooled team has always been diverse, covering a wide range of nationalities, qualifications and gender, helping to make the activity centres welcoming and inclusive. Olivia Reilly has been with the Watercooled team since November 2012, originally working as a sailing instructor, she is now sales executive and schools coordinator. Olivia started sailing from a young age, and was quick to experience the impact the sport had on her confidence, ultimately deciding to pursue a career in water sports. Olivia has been a key part of implementing some of the key women only activities at the centres such as Ladies Sailing, as well as helping to build and

promote some of the other activities popular with women, such as the stand up paddleboard yoga and fitness classes. When asked about women’s participation in water sports in the UAE Olivia had this to say: “There are some really great activities on the water that more women are getting involved in. Certainly since I first came to the UAE, I have seen an uptake in water sports from women at our centres, particularly our Abu Dhabi location. However, I don’t think there are enough women getting out on the water. We have worked with some really great paddleboard yoga instructors over the years, these women have always been very encouraging to the participants, and it has helped create a really strong group feel for our regulars, most of whom are ladies.There are so many options for all kinds of people from extreme sports to gentle enjoyment of just floating on the water, and the best thing is you can enjoy it alone or with friends, even as a family. You just have to give it a try!” Everybody is of course welcome to join any Watercooled activity, but the team have always

accommodated ladies only groups to help participants feel more comfortable when starting out. There is also the cultural aspect in the UAE, which traditionally has seen segregation of men and women. Watercooled have always had a female instructor on staff to be able to meet with these requests to ensure that the training is open to everyone. Watercooled run regular SUP Yoga sessions at their Abu Dhabi activity centre, at Hiltonia Beach Club, every Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 120 AED per session. Also at Watercooled Abu Dhabi is weekly Ladies Social sailing every Monday morning from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at 250 AED per boat. Watercooled will shortly be running these same activities from their new site in JBR.

Watercooled Jebel Ali: bookingsdxb@watercooleduae.com; 04 8876771 Watercooled JBR: bookingsjbr@watercooleduae.com; 055 9137152 Watercooled Abu Dhabi: bookingsauh@watercooleduae.com; 02 6395997 www.watercooleduae.com OutdoorUAE Special Supplement

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Lynette Warn Occupation: Senior Tandem Instructor at Skydive Dubai and triathlete Nationality: New Zealander

When did you move to the UAE? I came to Dubai in 2011. My husband had just passed away from cancer so I needed to run away and be busy where nobody knew me. It was just how I had to deal with it at the time. Were you always into outdoors and sports growing up? All my four brothers were into rugby but I liked to run so I raced at school and did very well.

Photos by: Abrito Rosellosa Jr

What do you especially love about skydiving and triathlon? With skydiving it’s the feeling of flying and the beauty you see and the thrill of it, actually there isn’t much that isn’t amazing about skydiving. With triathlon it’s the challenge of pushing myself hard to achieve a goal and always seeking that perfect race. How did you get into skydiving and triathlon? I got into skydiving the very first time to tick it off my bucket list, but loved it so much that I didn’t stop and now it’s been 23 years and over 14,000 jumps. With triathlon I was living in Taupo and working at Taupo Tandem Skydiving in NZ and that is where the NZ Ironman is held so I saw them race and thought I’d like to challenge myself to do it. Congrats on the Ironman 70.3 Auckland (Asia Pacific Championship). I feel great that I got to race in Auckland over the iconic Harbour Bridge and around the bays as it’s the last race being held there and the last Asia Pacific Champs in NZ. My time wasn’t as good as last year, but the swim course was incorrectly marked 32

Do you feel intimidated or pressured competing in triathlons? Any of the pressure I feel is what I put on myself as I always want to do better and am always hoping to have the perfect race. I also want to do my sponsor proud. Intimidation doesn’t come into it as I’m trying to race the clock and do my own race and can only control my race, nobody else’s.

and so it was longer than it was meant to be. My official time was 5hrs 30mins. How are you preparing for the 70.3 Ironman World Championship this August? I have plenty of races to do prior because now it’s the peak of the local UAE season. I’ll build up for that race after I come back from Texas in May where I’ll be competing in the North American Ironman Champs.

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What’s your mindset during a race? Try to stay calm and stick to my plan. During the swim, concentrate on swimming straight through the course and if I can find some fast feet to draft off. During the bike well I’ve just got a power metre so I’m learning to race on the numbers. For the run, it’s just to try to keep a rhythm and keep my core temperature down and my head up. There’s only one way to the finish line and that isn’t by stopping. What has triathlon taught you? Discipline in eating healthy. Also to push myself more than I thought I knew I could. And just because I’m getting older

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doesn’t mean I have to stop doing what I was blessed with the ability to do. What is your advice for other women who are getting ready for their triathlon journey? Start with a goal race to work towards and find others who are on the same journey as it’s a great way to keep yourself motivated by going out training with others that are preparing for the same race. As a skydive instructor, what’s a typical day at work for you? Each season is slightly different as to the number of jumps each instructor performs each day. Currently we are each doing about 7-8 work jumps a day and occasionally we also get to fit in a couple of fun jumps at the end of the day’s work. When it’s a bad weather day we do a few maintenance jobs and go through safety refresher training. We are always looking at ways to improve our skills and procedures. I’m only one of many female instructors here. Skydive Dubai employs the most female tandem instructors at a single drop zone, than any other in the world. We have seven qualified female tandem instructors and also with our other drop zone the Desert Campus we have female Accelerated Free Fall Instructors and Coaches. There are also female load organisers and camera jumpers too. Fondest celebrity skydive moment? Yes Dubai is a place that attracts many celebrities indeed. But my memorable celebrity passenger was back in NZ and that was Ricky Martin who I took up for four tandems. How are you encouraging more ladies to participate in more outdoor activities? Without realising it I suppose just by being seen doing triathlon and skydiving is what is encouraging others to try them. When you love doing what you do, it just shows and you can’t

help but talk about it all the time. I’ve had plenty of females ask me about getting into both and I will always steer them in the right direction to start. How do you see the sport of triathlon and skydiving progressing in this country especially for the women? It’s one of the fastest growing sports in the Middle East and around the world as it caters to all levels and that includes children. Skydiving is growing as well. When I started skydiving I was one of only 25 female tandem instructors in the world. Now I wouldn’t know just how many there are, but there’s a lot. Here in Dubai we have a local UAE female relative work skydiving team that are doing really well

and getting the chance to travel around the world to compete. Also we have a female freestyle team who are busy training for international events. With all the female tandem instructors we have at the Palm Drop Zone we get to take up the local ladies and introduce them to a sport they never dreamed in the past they could be a part of but Skydive Dubai have made it an attainable goal with the female instructors we have at both drop zones. Your top triathlon tips for women? Give it a go. Find an event to work towards, a coach and some good training companions. Get professional advice prior to purchasing your bike and any other equipment. Just because it’s in the shop doesn’t mean it will be what you need. Some shops only want the sale. For a triathlete, you need the correct sizing and fit so ask the professionals. I’ve seen too many new triathletes on a bike that is too tall for their frame or shoes that give them no support. Research before you buy. With nutrition, it’s a trial and error method as we all have different digestions and what works for me may not work for you. There is a saying, “never try something new on race day!” We try out new types of nutritional products while training so we can see if our stomachs will cope with it then.

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SUPer Women Words by: Jen Scully

here’s something special about Stand Up Paddling. Experienced paddlers are empowered by their accomplishments and their development on the water, but everyone started the same way, in the same place, with a first stroke. There’s nothing I love more than teaching a new person to Stand Up Paddle who is nervous to stand up on a board for the first time, apprehensive of falling into the water, underestimating their ability to balance on an 11-foot board and is convinced they will make a fool of themselves. However, with all this reservation they are still keen to give it a try just hoping to be able to stand up for a fraction of a second before toppling over. Perhaps this is generalising an entire group of SUP students, but the above description fits many of the women I have taught over the years and their first time trying SUP. In my five years of teaching Stand Up Paddling and sharing this amazing sport with others, the greatest reward is the huge smile you get from the faces of these ladies who, almost always, let their fears completely subside as they start to cruise around, “walking on water” and realising “Wow! I’m doing it!” While many men assume they can run and jump on a board, balance right away and forget

“reading directions” or listening to instructions. They soon find themselves flat on their back sliding off their board in an entertaining moment which is followed by “I meant to do that”. Women, however take a much more cautious and calculated approach in their first attempt. They carefully listen to instructions; they ask questions and inevitably need a little push (literally) to get moving. Encouragement goes a long way and is essential to ensure that within a few minutes of standing up their confidence is soaring. Add additional instruction on specific technique and typically women pick up the art of paddling more quickly than men. Why women should SUP? A guaranteed confidence booster Even if you explain to a first time female paddler that SUP has an easy learning curve and within 20 minutes with the right board and conditions you’ll be up and paddling no problem, most won’t believe you and will probably just laugh. Until they do it. Then it’s like magic, yes perhaps their toes are still clawing the board and knees might be a bit shaky, but give them another 20 minutes and all will start to relax. Have them fall in the water, climb back up on the board and voila, they’re beaming! I can’t think of many other first time sports that women

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can take up these days that provide an almost instant confidence booster that can be shared with all your friends upon stepping off a board via an Instagram pic with the following caption: “First time SUP-ing. I did it! So much fun and so much easier than it looks! #standuppaddle #paddleagainsoon #whoisgoingwithme?” You’re stronger than you think A good instructor not only teaches you the basics, but they break down the paddle stroke, explaining the key muscles used and the major benefits that putting it all together provides. Proper technique can improve your paddling, but it’s also about the encouragement given. Being told you are strong and

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powerful (you are a woman, of course) and putting that into each paddle stroke produces a graceful glide across the water and allows one to feel that total body workout, but with ease, that SUP is guaranteed to provide. Women need Vitamin D and Vitamin Sea The sun beating down on a beautiful winter’s day in the UAE while paddling across the clear turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf taking in the coastline by Stand Up Paddleboard seems just like what the doctor ordered. This is guaranteed to fend off a handful of diseases and improve overall mood. I can’t think of a better day when out of the corner of your eye you see a pod of dolphins rise above the surface. The addition of the dolphins might not be an everyday occurrence, but the sun and the sea will definitely do your body good. Healthy mind and healthy body Speaking of doing the body good, it’s pretty simple. SUP is good for both your body and mind. At a minimum it can burn 300 calories an hour and really, it doesn’t even feel like a workout! We’re also busy increasing serotonin levels helping to boost our mood, provide more energy, and clearer thinking. Combine this with those firing endorphins and it’s easy to find yourself on cloud nine. Form a new perspective (in life) Standing up provides a new perspective on the water. Gliding over the water looking out at the horizon, the distant shoreline or down at the deep blue water affords paddlers a different view and an ability to look at life in various ways that may affect individuals differently. Regardless, when you step off the board finishing your first paddle, something changes. Yes, you might be hooked on the actual sport of SUP, but the experience can provide clarity for some, a desire to relax and slow down for others, or fire up slowly dying embers that start burning bright again.

Whatever your experience on a SUP may be, you’ll be surprised when you realise it was more than just learning to glide through the water. Versatility awaits After that first lesson, the options to continue paddling expand significantly as you learn how versatile the sport can be. You might search for new locations to paddle, try yoga or pilates on a SUP, or challenge yourself in windy conditions and try out a few small waves. Then you’ll hear about the opportunity to compete in an event and that confidence that came with standing up for the first time is realised again when you complete your first beginner race. You’ve taken all that you’ve learned, your strength is unleashed and you’re ready to show your power from both mind and body. It’s a fun, yet competitive way to test your limits amongst other women and in the end is a lot more enjoyable than you thought. This is even if you might have had your arm twisted to participate in the first place. You leave this experience wondering when you you’ll be able to do it again. Again and again, now that’s starting to sound familiar. Get out there and paddle all you SUP’er Women What are you waiting for? If you’ve got Stand Up Paddling

on your bucket list then get out there and make it a date. Grab a handful of your friends and get out there and learn, most likely, you’ll never look back. You’ll be busy scheduling the next paddle before you even step off the board. Then, afterwards, you might even find yourself Googling where to SUP in the Maldives as that upcoming trip is just around the corner. Now that sounds like a perfect idea! Where to SUP? Check out Surf House Dubai, Oceanman UAE, Watercooled and SeaYou Watersports in Dubai for rentals and lessons or join in a weekend paddle with SUP Dubai group. In Abu Dhabi, visit Hydro Marine, Oceanman UAE, Watercooled or Saadiyat Public Beach for rentals and lessons or join in a weekend paddle with the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddlers (www.abudhabisup.com).

Jen Scully, an Abu Dhabi resident, has shared her passion of Stand Up Paddling (SUP) with hundreds of people since starting in 2009. Her passion for SUP has evolved over the last five and a half years and continues to grow not only locally, but globally as well. She started the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddlers group in 2009, a community group that organises regular paddles and events, as well as a blog called Live Love SUP documenting her SUP travels around the UAE and the world. In 2012, Live Love SUP the company was launched, which promotes Stand Up Paddling through a fundraising focus, helping to provide clean water to those in need through Charity: Water. As of 2015, Jen and her Live Love SUP partner and husband, Nick Yates, have travelled the world paddling in 22 countries and connecting with others who also share the same language of SUP. She is a sponsored team rider in the UAE for Naish Middle East and a driving force of the UAE Stand Up Paddling scene. She not only enjoys introducing people to this great activity, but loves getting others involved in racing no matter their age or ability. She has participated in races worldwide and enjoys experiencing the variety of SUP disciplines in locations near and far. From racing to surfing, downwinding to rivers and simply cruising with friends – you can do it all on a SUP. OutdoorUAE Special Supplement

HERE’S TO EVERY ACTIVE

WOMAN OUT THERE. HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S MONTH!

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