Dubai: Abu Al Abiyadh, skippered by Mayed Atiq Al Muhairi, cruised to victory in the second heat of the Umm Suquiem Traditional Dhow Sailing Race for 43-feet dhows last weekend.
A total of 63 dhows participated in the race held over an 8.4 nautical mile course set from Port Rashid to the Palm Island Crescent.
The long fleet that lined up for the start was keen to unfold their sails in winds of 9-11 knots.
As soon as the orange start flare was set, the dhows raised their sails and set sail furiously.
Initially, fierce competition was evident between Seda'a and Ati who finished sixth and eighth, respectively.
However, the dhow that dominated yesterday's race was the previously unheard of Abu Al Abiyadh. They were followed by the Al Adeed team led by Saif Ali Al Rumaithi.
Dhows steered by the Rumaithis secured positions two to five.
The sea was dotted with white sails that looked like eagles ready to take flight.
Seda'a, skippered by Mohammad Rashid Bin Shaheen who, on several occasions, has been termed as "the fisherman by night and sailor by day," had a tough battle with Ati, skippered by jet ski pro Obeid Saeed Al Tayer.
Bin Shaheen has, over the years, dominated these kind of races and he led his crew to the eighth position.
Saeed Hareb, managing director of Dubai International Marine Club, said: "Traditional dhow races are always an important event for us. It is something between 22 and 60-feet dhows.
"I see this as a perfect boat for beginners. Today's races were very competitive and it was enriching to see this kind of team work. The tough fight between two very experienced racers was especially thrilling."
Results:
1. Abu Al Abiyadh 400 points
2. Al Adeed 300 points
3. Serdal 225 points
4. Lutam 169 points
5. Toufan 127 points.
