Mohammed Bin Sultan Bin Khalifa Celebrates Winners Of Areela 60-ft Dhow Sailing Race In Abu Dhabi

The dhow "Ghazi 103," owned by H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, triumphed in the Areela 60-ft Dhow Sailing Race. Captained by Nukhuda Ahmed Saeed Salem Al Rumaithi, it won under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The event was organised by Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club as part of the heritage racing programme for this season.

"Zilzal 25," owned by H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and captained by Nukhuda Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed Jumaa Al Marzouqi, secured second place. "Al Taber 55," owned by Rashid Mohammed Rashid bin Ghadir and led by Nukhuda Mohammed Suhail Khalfan Al Muhairi, finished third. The race featured a 25-mile nautical course starting near Khalifa Port and ending at the Abu Dhabi Corniche flagpole.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Marine Sports Federation, closely followed the race and honoured the top three winners in a grand ceremony. Generous prizes, including three 4x4 vehicles, were awarded to the top winners, with additional prizes for other high-ranking participants.

The race marked the third round for this category and saw participation from 88 dhows carrying 1,780 sailors. Sheikh Mohammed praised the wise leadership for their unwavering support of heritage, particularly maritime traditions. He emphasised preserving ancestral values and customs for future generations.

Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan's patronage, which strengthens heritage events' continuity and brings joy to participants and spectators alike. He congratulated the winners and thanked all participants for their efforts in making the race a success.

Cultural Importance of Dhow Racing

The Areela Race holds a distinguished position in the season's racing calendar due to its authenticity and competitive nature. It creates a memorable experience for all involved with large-scale participation. Sheikh Mohammed described these races as significant challenges symbolising ancestors' heroic feats.

The ceremony was attended by Saif Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairman of the Club's Racing and Sporting Events Committee; Nasser Al Dhaheri, Acting Director of Marine Sports at the Club; and Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Head of the Academy Division.

Sheikh Mohammed noted that these races portray vivid pictures of ancestors' journeys and reliance on the sea's bounty. The event featured intense competition with a thrilling group finish by leading dhows, highlighting its significance in preserving maritime traditions.

With inputs from WAM