Issue 22 October

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WAYNE GRAY REPORTS FROM TURKEY ON ThiS MOST EPic RAllY
THE FIRST OUTDOOR MAGAZINE FOR THE UAE AND THE MIDDLE EAST MIDDLE EAST
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UAE CYCLING IS
ACK ON TRrton reports straIGht Ian Gande
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2012
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Issue 22, October 2012
THE FIRST OUTDOOR MAGAZINE FOR THE UAE AND THE MIDDLE EAST
OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
On the Cover: Kieren Taylor page 52, photo by Ian Ganderton Managing Editor Daniel Birkhofer Editors Kim Perks, Tara Atkinson, Angelo Cabrera Designer Oybek Daniyarov Administration Jane Mesina Sales & Marketing (advertisement enquiries) Tara Atkinson Tel: 04-447 2030 Mobile: 055 9398915 tara@outdooruae.com Published by Outdoor UAE FZE P.O. Box 215062 Dubai, U.A.E. Tel. 04-447 2030 contact@outdooruae.com www.outdooruae.com Distributor Tawzea, Abu Dhabi Media Company P.O. Box 40401, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. Printed at Galadari Printing & Publishing LLC P.O. Box 11243 Dubai, U.A.E. 2012 Outdoor UAE FZE Issue 22, October 2012
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NO MAttER IF YOUR StEPS ARE bIG OR SMALL MAkE SURE tO NEvER StOP ExPLORING
Finally, the season is here! I made my resolution for this winter season to go outdoors as much as possible after being locked behind a desk last season for work, and spent most of my spare time studying to finish my masters degree. Its strange to go back to school after years of work and also parallel to work, but I think its always good to explore new things, widen your horizon and gain more knowledge. I did this for the past year on an academic level and now, I can finally bring back this desire to the part of my life I love most the outdoors. To never stop exploring is definitely a life attitude for all situations in your professional and private life. The talk under this topic of 3 exceptional people (see page 16) was exciting and interesting for me personally as much as for the audience. Even though Im hungry for the outdoors and full of ideas, the stories where very inspirational and gave me some insights of their individual motivations to never stop exploring and go outdoors. I will certainly not follow their examples and run ultra-long distances or climb the highest mountains, but rest assured, I will take on some adventures this season. Since sharing experiences is such a great thing, you will certainly read about it in one of our next issues. Over this season keep letting us know and share with us your plans and experiences . Its great to see the community grow and people enjoying the outdoors both here in the region and across the world. So no matter if you run 200km like Cath (see September 2012 issue for Caths Badwater race report or refer to page 16) or if you work hard for your first ever run like Jane and Angelo (page 22), it is your experience that makes it an adventure. So, not matter what size of steps you are taking, either adventures or explorations, we want to hear about them and so do the community.
Daniel Birkhofer
BETWEEN THE LINES
+ TransanaTolia 2012
WAYNE GRAY REPORTS FROM TURKEY ON ThiS MOST EPic RAllY
THE FIRST OUTDOOR MAGAZINE FOR THE UAE AND THE MIDDLE EAST MIDDLE EAST
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UAE CYCLING IS
ON TRACK straIGht Ian Ganderton reports
FROM ThE VElOdROME
2012
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Tara Atkinson Sales and Marketing tara@outdooruae.com Oybek Daniyarov Graphics & Programming oybek@outdooruae.com
ThE NEW FJ cRUiSER XTREME
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Daniel Birkhofer Founder and Editor in Chief daniel@outdooruae.com
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Kim Perks Copywriter and Editor Jane Mesina Administration jane@outdooruae.com Angelo Cabrera Junior Editor angelo@outdooruae.com
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Issue 22, October 2012
The information contained is for general use only. While we have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this magazine has been obtained from reliable sources, however the publisher is not responsible for any errors. All information in this magazine is provided as is, with no guarantee of completeness, accuracy, timeliness or of the results obtained from the use of this information. In no event will the publisher, its related affiliates or anyone else be responsible for any decision made or action taken in reliance on the information in this magazine. All contents are under copyrights and may not be reproduced in any kind without written permission. 2012 Outdoor UAE FZE Reg. at Creative City Fujairah P.O. Box 4422, Fujairah, U.A.E.
EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS
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Gordon T Smith Desert Diver and wannabe Marine Biologist
Kit Belen Our fishing pro
Pete Aldwinckle Climber and all-round adventure seeker
Mike Nott The 4x4 expert
John Basson Moto/ATV and all round adventure seeker
Tori Leckie Writer, runner, blogger, adventurer and adidas athlete
WHEN YOURE DONE READING, PLEASE RECYCLE!
Toby Foord-Kelcey
Climbing Expert WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? CONTACT US! contact@outdooruae.com
Darryl MacDonald Photographer, journalist, climbing and hiking junkie currently living in Oman.
Ian Ganderton Kayaker, climber, mountainbiker and snowboarder. Enthusiastic jack of all trades, master of none.
OUTDOORUAE
CONTENTS
ON THE COVER
28 Culture of the Paddle

52 Meet Kieren and Karina 28 Find out more about the Paddle Culture
18 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Championship
EVERY ISSUE
05 BEST SHOTS 06 EVENTS CALENDAR 36 PRODUCTS 52 PEOPLE 66 DIRECTORY
EVENT REVIEWS
12 MINI DESERT HIKE CHALLENGE 14 DIVING WITH DOLPHINS 18 RED BULL CLIFF DIVING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
TRIED AND TE STED !
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
22 BREAKING THROUGH THE WALL: A & JS TRAINING 28 CULTURE OF THE PADDLE 32 AL THANI CLIMBS TO THE HIGHEST POINT IN EUROPE 62 OMAN ESCAPES : LOCATION 64 EAST COAST INCHCAPE 2
40 Strata D Fleece
OUR EXPERTS
46 ADVENTURE CHICK RUNS THE SABAH ULTRA - TORI 47 THEN AND NOW - THE FISHING KIT 48 GETTING AIRBORNE - JOHN BASSON 50 ALTERNATIVE PADDLING - DONNA MASING 51 UAE CYCLING IS ON TRACK - IAN GANDERTON
TIPS + TRICKS
56 SO YOU THINK YOU WANT TO PADDLE ? 4
51 UAE CYCLING IS ON TRACK
OUTDOORUAE
10 2012 TRANSANATOLIA RALLY
BEST SHOTS
WINNER!
Here are The best shots sent in by
you for the monthly Want Fame? photography competition! Thank you for all your entries, they were all great and it was hard selecting the best photos this month. Congratulations to the top 3 winners (who each receive Buff headwear and 5 free copies of the magazine) Seb Porter, Patrice De Wergifosse and Ashley Kenneth. Well done!
To submit your shots simply email us at competitions@outdooruae.com with the subject Best Shots. You can submit maximum 3 image per month.
Seb Porter
WINNER!
Patrice De Wergifosse - Salalah Oman
WINNER!
Ashley kenneth
OUTDOORUAE
EVENTS CALENDAR
Stay up-to-date with the latest events
DMX Round 2 & National Championship Round 1

october 12, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. DMX Track, Jebel ali, Dubai
Adrenalin-packed motocross action goes full throttle this new racing season. DMXs dirt track and at the Emirates Motorplex in Umm Al Quwain will be roaring to life once more to the sound of gasoline-guzzling dirt bikes and the cheers of friends and families on the outer parts of the track barriers. To learn more about the details of the scheduled races, contact Laura at +97150 452 6489 or visit www.dubaimotocross.com.
Gulf Bike Week
october 18 to 20, Dubai Festival City, Dubai

Wander around and get a good look at some of the finest two-wheeled creations in the regions roadways and elsewhere. The bike exhibition will also highlight the latest in sports bikes, cruisers, custom bikes, off road and urban terrain vehicles, accessories and clothing. And oh, need we have to say that Megadeth and Chris Daughtry will make their way there for a rock concert? For more information, visit www.gulfbikeweek.com.
Featured Event!
Battle of the Paddle 3
october 20, 7:00 a.m.Kitesurfers Beach, umm suqeim 1, Dubai

OutdoorUAE asks Carl from Surf Shop Arabia about the latest paddling event happening this month, and checks out what theyve got in store for paddling addicts around town. We also want to ensure that there is a bunch of other fun stuff to do and something for everyone apart from racing. Such as demos of the paddlesport, family fun activities and spectator involvement.
PRESENTS
What can we expect from the latest edition of Battle of the Paddle?
We anticipate this to be an event that is even bigger than the last one with some hot paddle racing in a variety of categories as well as a fun filled family day on the beach. We are PADDLE-BOARD SURFSKI KAYAK DRAGONBOAT OUTRIGGER RACES expanding our race format to allow for bigger groups and are also looking to offer categories for everyone from the serious racers to the average person. We also want to ensure that there LETS RACE! The BATTLE OF THE PADDLE is the only race is a bunch of other fun stuff to do and something for everyone apart from racing. Such as demos of the paddlesport, family fun activitiesseries in and the UAE that combines various paddle disciplines in a fun and easy race format. Stand-up paddleboarding, Surfski, spectator involvement. Dragonboating, Outrigger and fun kayak races ensure
What other races have you included in Battle of the Paddle?
www.paddlefortheplanet.org
there is a healthy and outdoor inspired race activity for everyone in in Mens, Women, Junior and team categories
We are going to have further kids, tandem, and family categories to ensure there are prizes for everyone. Each race will now also include a 08:00 Onwards first to pass prize for racer who passes a certain point in the race (usually in the first 300m) which will change the game a bit as this will push Kitebeach racers to sprint in the beginning and can affect the outcome of the finish! We look forward to this addition. The races are also going to be Umm Suqeim marketed all over the UAE so we hope to have entrants from all over the country. For more info, visit facebook groups Surf Shop Arabia & Surf Shop Dubai
SIDE ACTIVITES Free Paddleboard, Surfski & dragonboat trials & demos. Climbing Wall, Jumping castle, Sandcastle competition, treasure hunt and other fun kids activities
MAIN EVENTS o Registration 8am, Race start 9am o Race entry fee 100aed per race - includes FREE t-shirt o Music, Entertainment, Kids activities and family fun o More than 25,000 aed in prizes! o Prizes for all categories including fun & spot prizes!
20th OCT
or email us for an infopack at botp@surfshoparabia.com.
Do you have a message for the outdoor community about the about event?
This event is focused on offering a variety of paddlesports in one days racing and is available to all ages, all levels of paddlers so there is something for everyone. We also have some super fun activities on the beach from treasure hunts to climbing walls and a number of super fun activities planned so come on down and have a fun day racing , watching, having family fun or just hanging on the beach.
How do our readers get involved?
If you have a kayak, SUP, surf ski or even have a group on a dragon boat or an outrigger, heres your chance to get a gauge of your performance with Surf Shop Arabias latest paddling event and have a swell time with friends and family out on the beach this month. The event is also held as part of the Paddle for the Planet initiative which aims to spread awareness of saving marine life in the worlds oceans. For more information, contact Mari at +971 50 8823 819, or send an email to info@surfshoparabia.com.
OUTDOORUAE
UAE Biathle Challenge 2012

october 12, 7:00 a.m. le Meridien Mina seyahi, Dubai
The Biathle race begins with a pack start of runners who complete one-half of the total running distance before entering a 50-meter transition area. Athletes then dive into the water and swim the required swimming distance before exiting the water, putting on their shoes and running the second leg of the run to the finish line. The top three male and female finishers in each age group will be invited to represent the UAE in an International Team to compete against over 200 international athletes from 13 different countries in the BIATHLE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP (BWC) this coming November at Le Meridien Mina Seyahi in Dubai. Visit www.biathleme.org or www.premiermarathons.com for more information.
Spinneys Build-Up Ride 3 of 4

october 26, 6:00 a.m. Dubai
Held one Friday a month, the rides are timed events and the results you achieve in each session will be used to seed the starters for the Spinneys Dubai 92 km Cycle Challenge. The seeding is to ensure that at the main cycle challenge, the starters go off in groups to make things safer and have groups of similar ability ride together. For more information, visit www.cyclechallenge.ae or sign up for the event at www.premiermarathons.com.
Sunset SUP Classic 2012
october 26 to 27, sunset Beach, umm suqeim 3, Dubai

Get those SUPs ready for a great time at Sunset Beach with fellow SUP enthusiasts in this event hosted by Surf Dubai. For more information about the event, send an email to info@ surfingdubai.com or visit their Facebook Group page.
NEWS + COmmENT
Jumeirah sceirah reopens with heightened thrill
Are you brave enough to sleep with the lights out at night? If youre courageous enough to do that, then you should try Wild Wadi Waterparks new and improved version of the Jumeirah Sceirah waterslide that was recently launched for holiday goers and visitors alike on the 4th of September last month. Those who were brave enough to try the water parks attraction which was now being built with two tandem slides made their way up a towering height of 32m where they will stand on a trap door, unable to see what the slides hold below it. They would then be flushed down within a splitsecond upon the release of the trap door, as they rapidly jetted down the 120m slide through a tunnel at speeds of over 80kph. The upgraded attraction designed Whitewater West Industries also makes use of 600 gallons of water per minute. The new slide takes the place of the Jumeirah Sceirah which was dismantled in January 2012 for reconstruction. Located between Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab, the view at the top of the slide commands 360 views of the Arabian Gulf and the city.
To THe enDs oF THe earTH BreasT CanCer surViVors anTarCTiCa eXPeDiTion 2012
Under the Patronage of her Highness Sheikha Al Yazia Bint Al Saif Al Nayhan, wife of the UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs, HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the first and only team of Breast Cancer Survivors from the UAE will leave for Antarctica on the 1st December 2012 Team members are based in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah with two team members flying in from the USA and Switzerland to join their UAE based sisters. Team members originate from the UAE, India, South Africa, America, Great Briton, Scotland, Italy, and Lebanon making it a truly international team. The team will be at the most Southerly place in the World (Ushuaia) on UAE National Day and have a flag ceremony planned to celebrate the day and the start of their ten day floating expedition aboard a purpose built ice vessel M/V Plancius.
singing rock announces recall of Via Ferrata products
Singing Rock is recalling Via Ferrata sets of types, EASY GO XP LOCK, EASY GO XP COMPLETE from the market as a precautionary measure. It has been found that, in certain cases the webbing of the elastic webbing arms (branches), after intensive use, may no longer meet the relevant safety standards. Thus the protective requirements of a Via Ferrata Set are no longer met or can only be met in part, which in the case of a fall could result in serious injury or death. There are no reports of this defect coming from normal use. Nonetheless, Singing Rock is acting pro-actively on this matter given the potential casualty hazard. To avoid any risk to the user, Singing Rock are recalling the above mentioned products from the market for replacement of elastic webbing arms (branches) with non-elastic.
During the expedition the team will complete a series of activities to include kayaking, snow shoeing, shore camping and the opportunity to summit on two mountain peaks as well as enjoy the wildlife of Antarctica penguins, whales and seals to name a few! Training is in full swing and the team can be seen power walking around the Corniche and Yas Marina circuit to compliment workouts at the gym . Ski Dubai will also be a base for training with an overnight camp out planned for November and well as early morning training sessions using snow shoes leading up to the expedition. The team will also have a few kayak training sessions before they head out. The expedition is being led by Julie Lewis of Mountain High who has been running adventure challenges, retreats and personal leadership programmes for women since 2003. A five times arctic explorer, health activist, speaker and coach Julie is a seasoned adventurer and believes this pioneering expedition to Antarctica is set to make modern day adventure history for
the UAE and for Breast Cancer Awareness. This expedition is a great opportunity to reinforce the strength and spirit of women, women as explorers and highlight the UAE as an emerging leader in the field of womens health. The team are fabulous roving ambassadors for Breast Cancer awareness and great spokeswomen to encourage more women to get into action and take charge of their health. Prevention is always better than cure so as well as awareness and education we believe strongly in the importance of regular screening and a integrated healthy active lifestyle A post expedition film and memento book is planned to share the womens experience of breast cancer and their journey to the ends of the earth. For more information on supporting the team contact Julie Lewis on
jules@mountainhighme.com or 050 6595536. www.mountainhighme.com
Follow the dedicated expedition facebook page: www.facebook/ Mountainhighme.com
Q&A
Some of the well-known camel race tracks that you can pay a visit:
+ +
Where are Camel Races held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi? The camel-racing season usually runs from October to March (being the winter season), and is held during the weekends.
Al Marmoom Racetrack (also called Al Lusali Club), Dubai - +97148326526 Al Wathba Camel Race Track (about 45km east of Abu Dhabi on the Al Ain Road) Al Ain Camel Race Track Al Maqam Track near Al Ain
If you own some of above stated products, please return it to your Singing Rock retailer or contact the GCC distributor; Global Climbing. Email distributor: info@globalclimbing.com Read complete information: www.singingrock.com/voluntary-recall-notice
Also, you might be interested to pay a visit at the Al Dhafrah Camel Festival and the Al Wathba Camel Race Festival in Abu Dhabi in December. Or log on to www.camelraces.net for more information
OUTDOORUAE
?? ?
Apex ATV predATor:
The Yamaha raptor 700r
Being named after a menacing, prehistoric predator from the Late Cretaceous Period that is known for its ferocity and killer prowess should tell you a lot about the Yamaha Raptor 700R; its an all-terrain vehicle that can put you on top of the hunt.
super-strong structure and is claimed by Yamaha to be the lightest ATV in its class. Its aggressive, stylish look makes the Raptor 700R appear as intimidating as it really is. This preying ATV is ready to go whether the destination is the dunes, trails or the track.
the 9.1 inches of front travel and 10.1 inches out on the back, the trail bumps smooth out while the rider keeps things under control. With the combination of power, solid handling, and a great suspension, this machine has to be experienced to be fully appreciated. Experience the unrelenting power of an apex predator with the newest features of the 2013 Yamaha Raptor 700R ATV model its built to get you racing ahead of the pack anywhere, any time. For more information get in touch on Tel: 04 3390621or visit your nearest Al Yousuf Motors Showroom
The ATV is powered by what Yamaha claimed as its most potent big-bore engine ever 686cc of liquid cooled fuel-injected A thick comfortable seat, adjustable suspower that produces big torque right off from being idled, transitioning into a fat mid- pension with sport-tuned piggyback shocks provide the much needed comfort while the range and monstrous top-end. dual counter balancers, electric starter, and reverse keep things nice and civilized when A combination of big power and lightnecessary, but when its time to pull the trigweight also makes this feisty ATV an ger, the big-bore Raptor 700R engine would eye-catcher for riders, which are also the standard features of the Raptor 700R. With a be roaring loud. hybrid steel aluminum frame and controlledfill aluminum sub-frame and cast aluminum swing-arm, The Raptor 700R produces a The YFZ-inspired handling of the Raptor 700R is incredible to experience blasting through the trails and dirt roads. Thanks to
Additional Features
Inner rolled wheels reduce weight while maintaining strength. Long seat allows maximum rider comfort and movement with Superb sport-riding ergonomics. Multireflector 30-watt Krypton headlights set back in the front cowl add the perfect no-compromises sporting accent, and an LED taillight provides great visibility. Large-capacity, 2.9-gallon fuel tank and Yamaha Fuel Injection (YFI) mean more time on the trail between fill-ups. Thumb throttle lever has a smooth shape for a feel riders will appreciate, with less fatigue at the end of the day.
OUTDOORUAE
TRANSANATOLIA
2012 ID RALLY RA
Day 1
REPORT
The 2012 Transanatolia Rally Raid marked the 3rd edition of the Turkish Rally. Set over 7 days running from the 4th to 11th of September, the competitors were led through some of the most beautiful and diverse landscapes Turkey has to offer, as well as some of the most technically challenging.The event is suitable for bikes, quads and cars and there were many local Turkish entrants and international participants from countries such as Holland, Germany, Italy, United Kingdom and the UAE, with Dubai based New Zealander Stephen Collie and Turkish Sermet Daneshfar competing in the bike category. There were also a number of women competing in the motorcycle category: Tina Meier, who has previously competed in the Dakar Rally, Donna Gray from the UK, as well as the Womens Turkish Enduro Champion Burcu Tugayoglu.
The route would take riders and drivers from Mediterranean coast over the Taurus Mountains, into Cappadocia and finish in the coastal town of Alanya, with the highest point in the rally being over 3,000m above sea level. Participants did an average of 300km per day with a total distance of 2,500km over the 7 days.
Words + Photos: Wayne Gray

The ceremonial start was held in the city of Antalya, on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey on the evening of the 4th. Kizilli Ilvat: 3 short special stages for a combined total of approximately 106km of timed racing Very tough day to start this rally, 100 percent concentration and commitment was required throughout the day in the rocky mountain trails and great attention needed for the navigation as the smallest error would cost you a great amount of time and energy. Dutch motorcycle rider Willie van Wessel was on another level today, consistently quicker than his rivals over all 3 special stages, opening up a lead at the end of Day 1 of over 15 minutes on 2nd place.
unforgiving rugged terrain of this first day, he struggled with his tyre choice and lost some ground on the leaders.
1. 2. 3.
Willie Van Wessel (NLD) Mirco Miotto (ITA) Ladis Dalle Mule (ITA)
Day 2
The car category was dominated by Turkish drivers taking the top 3 positions on the day.
1. 2. 3.
Mehmet Becce / Turgut Baris Hurriyet Grit / Huseyin Avsar Yunus Ayhan / Ali Aktas
racing. Initial sections of the stage still in rugged mountainous terrain, but opened up onto gravel track roads that made the second special stage of the day a little easier, with fast flowing sections the riders could relax more, however still needed to maintain 100 percent concentration on the navigation, as a wrong turn would cost them a lot of time. Willie van Wessel again won the bike category extending his lead to over 20 minutes. Overall positions after day 2 were: 1. Willie Van Wessel 2.Mirco Miotto 3.Kemal Merkit 4.Wouter Vaarkamp 5.Ladis Dalle Mule. Car category changed up some positions in top 3. Mehmet Becce maintined the
Ilvat Meke Lake: 2 special stages, 140km of timed
Quads: South African Sarel Van Biljon, the only quad entrant in the rally this year aboard an E-ATV 690 RR was competitive with the times of the bike entrants; however, in the
10
OUTDOORUAE
Mehmet Beccewas further extended his lead by 8 minutes in the first stage on this day. Hurriyet Grit in 3rd place overall began his battle to try and make up he had lost to Yunus Ayhan on the 2nd day. He made up 6 minutes today, but was still 35 minutes down on Ayhan. Sarel van Biljon, on his 690cc ATV, was getting to grips with the terrain and was an impressive 3rd overall on the road for the days stage. Cukurbag Dagpazari The route reached over 3,000m above sea level in the mountains today, with very rugged, dusty and narrow roads leading competitors up into the mountains and all the way back down again, with a lot of switch backs on the narrow roads, riders had to be careful not overshoot any of the corners as there was huge cliffs off the side of the course that dropped for hundreds of metres. The top 3 overall in the bikes were all very evenly matched today with just 1 minute separating them after 145km of racing. The big surprise of the day was Sarel van Biljon who was quicker than anybody else by over 3 minutes. In the womens category, Donna Gray had the lead after day 5 and further extended her lead over Eva Krumbholz after Tina Meier had 2 bad days and was relegated to 3rd in the womens category. Gray had moved up to an impressive 8th overall in the motorcycle category. In the car class, Hurriyet Grit made up all the time he had lost to Yunus Ayhan by the end of the day after Ayhan had troubles on the tight, unforgiving stages and had dropped to 3rd overall, 11 minutes behind Grit. Mehmet Becce was still in the lead, by over 50 minutes.
Day 6
lead, Hurriyet Grit in the Suzuki Jimny was the quickest in the first special stage today, however had some issues on the 2nd stage and lost around 35 minutes on the leaders and allowed Yunus Ayhan to move into 2nd position overall after day 2.
the participants were understandably shaken up after the accident and 7 of the remaining bike entrants elected not to continue with the rally for personal reasons. Cukurbag Cukurbag Racing continued today with 2 special stages totaling 144.4 km. Italian Mirco Miotto has taken over the lead in the bike category, due to Willie van Wessel electing not to continue. Miotto was consistent in both stages, extending his lead by 2 minutes over now 2nd placed Italian Ladis Dalle Mule. 3rd place is Dutch rider Ragnar Keterbau who was quickest in first special today by over 3 minutes, however ran into some problems on the second special stage and lost over 20 minutes on the leaders.
Day 3
CANCELLED Friday morning, tragedy struck during Special stage 6 of the rally in the Meke area. Dutch Rider Wouter Vaarkamp collided with Italian Mirco Miotto and Turkish rider Kemal Merkit. As a result of this unfortunate racing accident, Wouter Vaarkamp and Kemal Merkit sadly passed away at the scene. Kemal Merkit, Turkeys most celebrated
Meke Lake Ilhara Valley Goreme/Cappadocia
Day 5
Day 7
Dagpazari Mut Alanya The final day of the rally, competitors were looking relieved after a tough week of racing and happy that the final racing stage was only 46km. In all classes the top positions remained unchanged, as leaders rode conservatively to maintain their podium finishes. The race finished in the coastal town of Alanya, part of the Turkish Riviera and the finishing ceremony held on the beachfront promenade.
motorcycle rider, dubbed the Desert Tiger was an experienced veteran of the sport having competed in many international rallies including the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge and the Dakar. Vaarkamp was just 18 years old and a fresh young face in the world of rally. Miotto was slightly injured and was attended to by the medical unit. The days special stages were cancelled out of respect for the riders. Goreme Cukurbag CANCELLED It was decided by organisers and riders that todays special stage would also be cancelled. A lot of the participants flew to Istanbul to attend the funeral of Merkit. The participants that remained rode in a procession of respect in memory of the 2 riders and had black ribbons tied to their vehicles. All
Day 4
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11
EVENT REVIEWS
Mini desert hIke challenge

By: Andreya Valabek
Its sandy! saId one partIcIpant,as he approached the fIrst checkpoInt Inthe MInI desert challenge 10k put on by uaeadventure racIng on thursday, septeMber 13.
The Mini Desert Challenge, supported byAdventure HQ, differed from a normal 10km event as the course took runners through the desert and it required them to find the course on their own. Armed with a GPS device, a set of co-ordinates, a light source, and water, each team set off to test their skills at navigating over sand dunes. They also had to avoid desert perils: snakes, scorpions and soft sand. Fifty-one teams of assorted abilities took part, from regular runners who completed the course in an impressive 1hour 15 minutes, to city slickers who discovered for the first time that the desert is indeed sandy. The event had a rolling start time: teams could arrive from 6:30pm until 8:00pm to begin their trek, allowing for time to leave the office. With the starting tent located just off the Al Quadra road in Dubai and easily accessible by car, participants enjoyed a view of expansive sands topped off with the lights of the Burj Khalifa subtly shimmering in the humid air, as they signed in for the event. There were two checkpoints en route to ensure everyone was accounted for and that people had enough water and other cool drinks to get around the course. Teams encountered the Big Fat Tyre Checkpoint after just three and a half kilometres, where they could take a break and test out a bicycle capable of riding through sand dunes. The second checkpoint was manned by Adventure HQ. The volunteers and organizer made sure the checkpoints were kept upto-date with the progress of the participants and provided reassurance to the teams that they were on the right track. Adventure HQ entered two teams, captained by Cassandra Stewart, Marketing Co-ordinator, and Patricia Ruiz Von Felton, a Buyer in the Water Department. Their only prior dune running experience consisted of running from beach to towel on a hot day. Stewart described the event as challenging and tough for a beginners course, but the effort was well worth it. The teams found running in the desert at night peaceful and relaxing despite the fact that one of their team members did a face-plant into soft sand as it was hard to judge the camber of
the dunes in the dark. Stewart said, Seeing the other teams dripping with sweat and carrying on inspired you to do the same. Overall the Adventure HQ teams enjoyed the friendly, non-competitive nature of the event, and would recommend it to others, as long as they are in fairly good shape and have the right gear with them. Cool shirts and hydration packs are a must, and Von Felton even wore 2XU compression pants which aided her in recovery the next day. Some teams found that just owning the gear was not enough. Karen Kruger and teammate Kisha of Team Bossie, took 3 hours 30 minutes to complete the course despite the fact that they are excellent runners. Their friend who was waiting for them at the finish began to worry as the teams began rolling in and her friends were not among them. Finally, Team Bossie appeared, coming in the opposite direction from all the other participants. Their GPS had not calibrated properly and was leading them off course. In the end, they completed 19 km which is a fantastic achievement, considering that running over sand dunes easily counts double, trainingwise, to running on roads. Another team, comprising John Rourke and Arno Kukkuk, relied on the time-tested and reliable navigational devices: a compass and a map. After Kukkuks GPS consistently led the team towards roads, as it was designed to be used in a car, Rourke pulled out his compass and successfully guided the team to the finish. They also discovered that a 1.5 litreCamelBak does not carry enough water for a hot humid hike over hills. Kukkuk said, I was exhausted, but relieved to reach the finish. Rourke, an ex-military man added, It was a genuinely good event. The night was clear enough you didnt even need to use a torch; in fact, it was easier to go without. He also stressed the importance of knowing how to use a GPS and having basic navigational skills before setting out on any desert challenge, be it mini or not.
In order to keep sand out of their shoes as they completed the hike, many participants had gaiters which are specially designed overshoes that attach to your trainers with Velcro and effectively keep out sand. Many ingeniousteams fashioned their own gaiters on the spot using duct tape and shopping bags. Regina Lombardof the Tri-Piratesteam was decked out from the knee down in yellow Spinneys bags fashioned into gaiters by teammate Tyrone Sinnamon. She said she will seek sponsorship from the large grocery chain before her next adventure challenge. When asked how the shopping bags performed, Lombard said, Excellent! No problems at all. Lombard, Sinnamon and their teammate Mark Portersaid they had had a really good time.Although Lombard is an experienced desert hiker, having completed a more demanding 20km event on bigger dunes earlier this year, it was the first time for her teammates. They are all certain that this desert adventure has helped them get stronger for the Phuket Half Ironman Triathlon they will compete in this December. Other teams, who werent among the first
to buy gaiters from Adventure HQ before they sold out, had gaiters tailor-made in team colors, some even in hot pink satin. Other teams had creative names, such as Surreal Trolls of Destiny emblazoned on their shirts. The spirit of the event was one of good fun and hard work, especially as the evening was hot and humid. Organizer Kevin West has hiked distances of 120km in the giant Liwas and dunes, which probably explains why he called this one mini. As the participants came to the finish, drenched in sweat and gulping even more water, it was clear that there was nothing mini about this event. With 105 people entered and all participants bar one (with a bad back)completing the course, it seems they were up for the challenge.
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EVENT REVIEWS
Divingwith
Dolphins
By: Daniel Birkhofer
My zodiac sign is Aquarius so I feel a deep connection and attraction to water, especially the sea. Born in the black forest in Germany, this desire could only be satisfied in my dreams and ever since I saw Luc Bessons movie The Big Blue, which reflects a lifetime of dedication, Ive been fascinated by the underwater world and the mystery of the blue eternity. Whilst my desire is more low-key I guess, its quite a common one as I have met so many like-minded people here in the free diving and scuba diving community. After fuelling my childhood desires through dreams, living in the UAE now allows me to dive into the big blue or get lost in the horizon of the open sea.
There are many fascinating creatures in the ocean and in the Arabian Gulf but there is
one creature which stands out and warms our hearts merely sighting them in the far distance. Dolphins seem to have a mysterious bond and effect on us and they fill our hearts with joy and you can only love them. Perhaps its their friendly and curious behaviour reminding us of smiling kids, so pure and honest. I have been lucky enough to spot dolphins in Musandam and many times in winter off the coast of Dubai while fishing. Usually theres not much that can draw our attention while were fishing but if we see dolphins, we take in the rods and hope to be able to get some company while cutting through the waves with our fishing boat. Usually this plan works out as dolphins seem to be not much different to us in that they enjoy our company as much as we do theirs. I have often driven the boat for up to 15 minutes in fairly large schools of dolphins which have got so close to the boat that you could almost touch them, but until recently, these few centimetres could not been overcome. Weve even stopped many times and jumped in the water hoping at least one of the dolphins would not continue cutting through the waves but would allow us to swim with them or even touch them. Sometimes I feel a little foolish and have no idea why I have this childish attraction
to these creatures but its simply something I cant stop and even my always controlled German temper goes crazy with excitement. So you can imagine, when we got the invitation from Atlantis, the Palm to try their latest attraction Diving with Dolphins I only took a second to confirm my attendance. After the initial excitement and sign up, I had some further thoughts about the invitation. Actually Im not a fan of any animal being held in captivity, especially intelligent animals like dolphins. My memories went back to the movie The Big Blue (its worth watching, though its fairly old) and a dolphin held in a small pool which almost died in captivity, with the main characters in the movie freeing the dolphin and saving him. Of course I had no such plans to free any dolphin from Atlantis but I was concerned
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that my desire to finally get close to a dolphin and physically feel this bond may not be the same in a pool with a trained animal. I was even more afraid that the conditions could be bad and the dolphins would not be healthy and happy so that it would turn into the opposite and be a bad experience. A few days later I showed up at Atlantis, the Palm for my encounter with a new friend. When I arrived I was surprised by the size of the dolphin pool and was happy to see a really big pool; nothing comparable to the memories of the small pond in the movie. The second thing to reassure me that allowed my excitement shoot up was that Sol, the dolphin our group would dive with, was waiting for us. The trainer was outside of the water with us, and although Dolphin Bay has a volume of 26 million liters of water for Sol to swim around or hide in, rather than enjoying having the pool to himself and not sharing with the other 28 dolphins, he was lying in the shallow water waiting for us. He seemed to be like a kid, waiting for his buddies to come and play; and I was ready to play. After we had been given instructions from the trainer and the guides that, in addition to the standard scuba diving signs included further signs to communicate under water, I put on all the diving gear except fins and off we went. The dive took about half an hour in the cooled pool (a real treat in the hot summer). The team from Atlantis, the Palm was highly professional and very friendly, but of course my favourite hotel employee was Sol. Underwater and close to the dolphin, my earlier doubts vanished and I can recommend this great experience to anyone who loves dolphins. With the regulator in your mouth youre not able to see the smile on your fellow divers faces but I could see it in their eyes. Its a once in a lifetime experience which doesnt come cheap, but its worth every single dirham. Yes, I would have preferred to have had this meeting somewhere in the open ocean and with untrained dolphins, but Im quite certain that this meeting will remain a fantasy forever although I dont see any reason to stop dreaming. After this experience Im even more impressed by the intelligence of dolphins and their joyful character. Im not a dolphin shrink but Sol seems to be so healthy, happy and enjoying his job that I cant imagine he isnt. Whilst I think animals should be free, I also see a high importance of education for marine life and the beauty of it. I think Sol and all the dolphins at Atlantis the Palm are ambassadors for this cause to understand and appreciate the sea, its creatures and how to preserve them. Thank you Sol
Daniel
Divers who are already certified can enjoy the 40 minute Dolphin Scuba experience at AED 1,300 per person for hotel guests and AED 1,450 for day visitors. All equipment is provided and includes complimentary entry into Aquaventure waterpark worth AED 210 per adult. To reserve your Dolphin Scuba programme or other experiences at Dolphin Bay, please call the Dolphin Bay reservations team on +971 4 426 1030 or via email: DolphinBay@atlantisthepalm.com
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EVENT REVIEWS
Never Stop
By: Tara Atkinson Photos: Angelo Cabrera
Exploring
What does exploration mean to some people? The challenge of taking on unknown environments, or even the challenge of discovering what you are capable of?
On the 25th of September, OutdoorUAE and The North Face joined forces to bring together three like-minded people with three very different stories and backgrounds in a bid to unite the outdoor community together and find out what it takes to become a true explorer. From 7 p.m. The North Face Store in The Dubai Mall was buzzing with people from all walks of life (including some of the more well known; Seven Summits achiever Atte Miettinen and Adrian Hayes who recently completed the Footsteps of Theseiger expedition). The evening included presentations from Cath Todd (world-class ultra marathon runner), Read Macadam (top resident climber in Oman) and Omar Samra (Seven Summits Challenger). Each presenter had a very different style and spoke about the ins and outs of why, what and how, sharing their experiences, adventures and challenges in 20 minutes (which was a challenge in itself!). After each of their 20-minute presentations were finished, the audience had time to ask some questions afterwards, which was a great way for them to get involved. With over 80 people walking through the bright red welcome arches of The North Face Store in The Dubai Mall, the event aimed to bring together the outdoor community from all over the UAE in an informal and intimate environment, and it did just that. After the presentations were over you felt a great energy and most of the audience stayed to meet the speakers, talk to each other, exchange notes, business cards, and share stories. It certainly created some interesting conversations about whats next, but more so, about what can I do more?! Being in Dubai, a city of superlatives, its very humbling to be a part of this growing outdoor community, and with an impressive turn out to such a small event, it just goes to show the amount of support and energy people are bringing to it. As one of the first (and one of many events to come) here in the UAE with such varied speakers, it has really brought people together from all different backgrounds which was also great to witness. Well done to Omar, Read and Cath for sharing such inspirational stories, and as they all said in their own words some of the best discoveries are on our own doorstep, so get involved! For more information about this event and when the next one will happen, email us on contact@outdooruae.com.
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$10,000 raised during Alofts Abu Dhabis third charity run for UNICEF
450 participants race through ADNECs halls in support of Road to Awareness drive
Abu Dhabi 22nd September 2012 - More than 450 enthusiastic participants ranging in age from 2 to 62 raised $10,000 at the third annual Aloft Runs for Children charity run organized by Aloft Abu Dhabi inside Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This years target of was very ambitious said Stephan Vanden Auweele General Manager of Aloft Abu Dhabi. We wanted to set a very high target so we could really push ourselves to achieve this; we are extremely pleased with what was accomplished today, he said, thanking all participants and event partners.
Awareness 2012 which aims to raise at least $300,000 to support UNICEF in the construction of pre-schools and help 50,000 children under the age of 6 to get ready for primary education in Ethiopia. Since its launch in 2008, Starwoods Road to Awareness associates fundraising campaign has raised over $1.5 million to support different UNICEF education projects in Europe, Africa and the Middle East. About UNICEF UNICEF is the worlds leading organisation working for children and their rights in more than 190 countries. As champion of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, UNICEF works to help every child realise their full potential. Together with our partners, UNICEF delivers health care, nutrition, education and protection to children in urgent need, while working with governments to ensure they deliver on their promise to protect and promote the rights of every child. For more information, please visit www.unicef.org.uk
Taking place 8:00 am 6pm on Saturday September 22nd, the run and was open to teams and individuals competing for different prizes. Besides the fantastic prizes all runners were entered in a grand prize raffle; to win one of the many prizes including trips, weekend breaks & stays in one of the many Starwood hotels around the world, dinners, health club memberships and many more. The event was held in support of Starwoods global fundraising, Road to
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EVENT REVIEWS
Red Bull Cliff Diving

World Championship
Imagine three seconds of free fall before hitting the water at a speed of 85 kilometers per hour. Now imagine trying to incorporate several twists and turns into that timeframe without landing on your face or pulling off a spectacular belly flop! The divers competing in the Red Bull cliff diving championship are some of the best in the world, performing complex acrobatics from a height of 27 meters with the utmost precision. More than twenty divers from ten countries competed in 2012 to be declared the best in the world. The competition traveled to several stunning locations including France, Norway, Portugal, Ireland, USA, Whales and, for the grand finale, the Sultanate of Oman.
The event, which I must say was one of the best organized events that I have had the pleasure to attend in Oman, took place in Wadi Ash Shab along the coast of the country. We were amazed when we arrived to see such a tremendous turnout as hundreds of people poured into the wadi. We began our trek into the canyon, wondering where there might possibly be enough water to jump from such a height, when we rounded the corner to find a massive crowd gathered in front of a large emerald pool. Onlookers filled the entrance of the pool and lined the cliffs. As I looked around, my
Words + Photos: Darryl MacDonald
gaze finally settled on the dive platform high up near the top of the canyon, and it made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. From that height, one small mistake could lead to an extremely serious injury, or worse. There was a boat anchored in the water for the judges to have a clear view of the divers. The drop zone was marked with jets sprayed into the water so the athletes can pinpoint where they were meant to hit 27 meters below and was surrounded by divers ready to deal with the repercussions of a bad landing. As the first contender walked out onto the platform the crowd roared to life then slowly faded to silence as the former British Olympic diver, Blake Aldridge, readied himself, then without hesitation proceeded to do three consecutive rotations before landing perfectly in the water below, three seconds later. The crowd went wild! The spectacle that followed over the next three rounds was jaw dropping. This years finale was particularly exciting with the scores among the top three contenders so close going into the Oman finale that any one of them could claim the world title. The competition was fierce. Orlando Duque, at 37 years of age, was definitely the man to beat in this years competition. With an illustrious career, Duque holds nine world championship titles and a Guinness world record for the only diver ever to achieve a perfect score from all the judges after performing a double back somersault with four twists during the 2000 world finals in Hawaii. After breaking his ankle in 2011 in a skydiving accident, the Columbian native
worked extra hard for this years competition.. He came back strong, leading most of the series this year. I asked Gary Hunt, the World Series champion for the previous two years and runner up in 2009, how he felt about his chances coming into the finale and he had this to say: All through the year Ive felt like it might not go my way this year. Orlando has been in the lead the whole time, and even in this competition just felt it was just slipping away but I did know that I had my hardest dive last so if it did go well it could be enough. Orlando and Gary went head to head saving their most difficult dives for last. It was a close competition, but Gary came out on top, managing a two point lead to secure the world title for the third year in a row! Orlando captured second place based on his strong performance through the year. An interesting twist of the day was David Colturi climbing the ranks and capturing third place for the Oman event. Colturi, a 23 year old US national champion, is not only a newcomer to the series but is also the youngest diver to take part in a full competition. Colturi showed the world that he has what it takes by keeping up with the seasoned, top athletes. The Red Bull Cliff Diving World Championship is a unique event that should be on everyones must see list. It was a high energy, meticulously organized event with visuals that make even the spectators adrenaline flow. The schedule for 2013 will be announced on the Red Bull website: https://www.redbullcontentpool.com/content/cliffdiving and next year will be the first year that female entrants will be allowed to compete for the World Cup. So stay tuned for the big event in 2013!
2012 Final Standings

1. Gary Hunt UK 860 840 740 670 550 400 2. Orlando Duque COL 3. Steven LoBue USA
4. Artem Silchenko RUS 5. David Colturi 6. Michal Navratil USA CZE
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Outdoor UAE is keeping an eye out on whats coming up for outdoor photographers in the next couple of months! If you are a budding photographer why not head down to Gulf Photo Plus for their FotoWeekend 2012 This November 7 10, Gulf Photo Plus (GPP) will host another fantastic FotoWeekend event. Every year, GPP brings the worlds leading photographers to Dubai
Knowledge Village to give a host of unique photography workshops. The hotly anticipated FotoWeekend 2012 event promises a jam-packed schedule, with 16 workshops and other exciting events over the four-day event. FotoWeekend 2012 is set to be GPPs best yet, with workshops by GPP-favourite David Nightingale and four brand new guest instructors: Frank Doorhof, Brooke Shaden, Scott Hargis and Tony Corbell. Sadly, unless you have a cloning machine you wont be able to attend every class, so youll need to choose wisely. Weve highlighted a couple of workshops that maybe worth attending for the keen Outdoor Photographer! David Nightingale David has been a guest instructor at every GPP event for the last few years, and for good reason; hisPhotoshop expertise and has an uncanny ability to find great photos where most people cant. A perfect fit for UAE Outdoor enthusiasts ioin David as he shares his shooting and Photoshop secrets and give your portfolio a boost with stunning and dramatic images. This David will teach Landscape Photography, Shoot The CIty, and his brand new workshop The Art of Black & White Photography.
Frank Doorhof Franks legendary workshops are extremely popular the world over and his blog has a huge following, and this is his first time in Dubai. Frank will give a variety of workshops covering everything from small portable flashes to studio strobes, perfect if you want to learn how to light like proin any circumstances with a focus on gettingthe final image right out of the camera as he says, Why fake it when you can create it?
For more information on the workshops at the FotoWeekend 2012 event or to make a booking visit www.gulfphotoplus.com/fotoweekend/2012, or call Gulf Photo Plus on 04-380-8545
Abu Dhabi Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX)

The love for hunting, horses, and falcons is deeply rooted into the heritage and identity of the local people here in the UAE, as seen in the latest edition of the recently concluded Abu Dhabi Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX) last 5th to 8th September.
Some of the biggest names in the outdoor scene were present in the event, too (including us, of course!). The outdoorsman would have been a happy shopper with all the hunting and equestrian things that were around; a plenty collection of expensive hunting rifles and hand guns, some looking too good to be used purely on catching game, falcons with beaks and talons sharp as ever, everything you need with horse riding, outdoor gears and apparel, accessories
By: Angelo Cabrera
for your 4x4 or the latest all-terrain vehicle models, ADIHEX had it covered. Heritage groups depicted the Emirati peoples way of life by sharing their local crafts and trades with foreign visitors and vacationers. Noteworthy were the teas served in the ominous Arabian brass tea pot, the traditional trademark of the Bedouin peoples hospitality when treating their guests. The food they offered was good as well, especially that corner where there was this friendly stubby-looking chap who gave everyone a try of the boiled chick peas and kidney beans that he was cooking right then and there; simple, but absolutely yummy and tasty!
As for the OutdoorUAE bunch, we had our hands full with all the people that came to our stall surprised with what was on display: Ian Gandertons unbelievably big Surly Moonlander fat bike! Every time a visitor passed by, wed either hear the questions how much, can this go in desert or just the word crazy. So much attention we (or the fat-bike, rather) got from the onlookers around, and they were just as awed with the bike as we all were upon seeing it at first! A good event that was for the outdoorsman, indeed, and an even nicer time to make friends with the horses and falcons around! Catch us up in some of the upcoming outdoor-related exhibitions next time!
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Al Yousuf Motors Accessories Hot-Stepper Sessions:

More than just a step ahead
So youve bought a handy accessory for your car, motorbike or ATV, but cant quite figure it out, and are having some trouble on how use it effectively...
Not to fear you can now take a 101 in outdoor accessories at the Al Yousuf Motors Showroom on Sheikh Zayed Road. Neatly titled the Hot Stepper sessions, these free workshops are here to get you together with fellow outdoor accessory enthusiasts and the specialists in order and talk about all things accessories, mods, and improvements. The first sessions came together as a way to better inform the public about the accessories they had purchased from us for their use with the vehicles, as mentioned by Al Yousuf Motors Accessories brand manager Ahmed Elmaweid. So far the free sessions are held every
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third Monday of the month and are open for the general public, existing and interested sport vehicle customers, in addition to Al Yousuf Motors sales persons who take in all the vital information which is being asked by existing and prospective buyers. The Hot-Stepper sessions are hosted to also provide the general public and staff with specific product knowledge on the various
accessories brands that we carry, he said. We talk about two accessories brands each session and provide specific information to maximize the benefit of using the modified accessories. We help them by explaining the features of our international brands and encourage them to wear the certified gear and follow the safety rules in UAE, the brand manager added. The accessory types being tackled in each session would be selected from 40 of the international brands that the company offers, ranging from on road, off-road and marine products. A key subject on most of the accessories features would be about their safety design and the vital role that each
part plays. He also said that, The sessions moreover tackle topics of sport vehicle performance enhancing, we carry many brands that enhance the horse power and the speed of motorcycles such as Yamaha, exhausts from Yoshimura, and BMC filters. We also have big gun exhausts and FMF exhausts for ATVs. Furthermore, we are the distributor of Riva racing brand for enhancing the speed of water vehicles. We also carry brands that fit on the body of sport vehicles such as a crash protector. We talk also about racing tires and the importance of using the right size and tread for each type of motorcycle, Elmaweid added. Elmaweid is the current person in charge of organising the monthly sessions, but different lecturers representing Al Yousuf Motors offered brands will host the informative sessions as time goes by. So far, the initiative has been getting good feedback from those who are in regular attendance, and upon further discussion Elmaweid also mentioned that during the coming season, Al Yousuf Motors Accessories will be raising their game and profile in educating both buyers and the outdoor community regarding vehicle and driver safety We noticed that there is a significant and positive interaction between the receivers and the lecturer and an increase in the number of attendees in each of the sessions, Al Yousufs brand manager said. [But] we are trying to further increase the numbers of sessions and the attendees, and in the future we will try to participate with the government sector in some sessions to increase the awareness of the safety rules, he ended. Set up in 2005 as a fullfledged retail operation, Al Yousuf Motor Accessories stocks mainly on street bikes, off road bikes, marine safety gear, protection and branded apparel from over 40 suppliers in 25 countries. This includes exclusive representation for genuine parts from globally renowned brands Yamaha and Suzuki. Serving as a one-stop shop in the UAE and across the GCC for bike riders, professional racers, marine enthusiasts and sports fans, it also serves various corporate and government organizations. Their store within a store concept is set at nine locations within the Al Yousuf Motors showrooms across the UAE. If you want to get ahead of the crowd, and get a step up on the things you need to know about your accessories, or even just how to use products more effectively with your vehicles, get involved and get in touch with the Hot Steppers Programme at the Al Yousuf Motors Showroom. For more information contact Ahmed at aelmaweid@alyousuf.com
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Breaking through the wall:

a & Js training for the 10km aDniC Yas run continues (with a bit of shopping on the side!)
By: Angelo Cabrera
two and a half months for a 10km run has been a wee-bit tough for me and Jane, having never done a long distance run before. Though some would regard 10km as a fairly average length running course, with the amount of preparation and toil that we would be required to undergo, we undoubtedly considered this to be a seriously HARD challenge for us.
Getting fit and fab in
Three days worth of training every week and a different type of fitness training each day over a period of two months and a half months bring it on. Fabian, our trainer from Ignite Fitness & Wellness whos in charge of the boot camp training, was absolutely right when he told us that our first Basic Fitness Assessment was just the easy part; the boot camp training was a lot harder! Down at Safa Park on a Sunday with a group of many other fitness fanatics, the man made us do a series of intense routines that got everyone working it like soldiers. First up, a rigorous warm-up to prepare ourselves for whats to come, followed by successive sets of intense workout routines that mostly focused on our lower body and cardiovascular conditioning, examples of which are a combination of squats, burpees (one star jump then quickly drop to the ground, face first), leg lunges, running with sandbags, sit-ups, and 1-minute to 30-second bridge stance, and then a couple of more cardio-based routines to get the fat in our bellies and flabby bits burning. Each session with tough Fabian every Sunday was, well, a tough one indeed. A few aches and pains here and there during the first few days were felt, but these wore off as we moved along with our training. Our body resistance and capacity to take the intensity of each routine is improving with each successive session, even though everyone is inevitably tired and a bit worn out after the exercise. Wednesdays would be our BoxFit boxing training with Ouali (pronounced as Waly), also from
Ignite Fitness, which was also a tiring but fun exercise to take on (We finally got the chance to do what Manny Pacquiao does!). It wasnt as aggressive as the type of training that the professional brawlers do before they exchange fists in the ring, but it has its own shares of strife and struggle that you must push on through. The training that we do in these sessions is mainly focused on our upper body and core. In our sessions with Ouali, Jane and I were feeling stronger with each power punch that we landed in the glove pads as we progressed over time Jane has had to use a hand wrap because of the stronger punches that Ive been landing on her glove pads lately, and I had also noticed (felt) how her punching power had improved; I wouldnt want one to the face from Jane thats for sure! On Thursdays Matt is the overseer of our running training as we most definitely need to put some kilometres into our legs in order to get prepared and finish the whole 10km. Jane and I have been making progress with our running sessions slowly but surely, as Matt gradually increases the intensity of training in every session to ensure we are in our best running form. During our initial sessions with Ignite Fitness & Wellness, they referred us to Up and Running
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Integrated Sports Medical Centre to do an additional before and after fitness assessment using something called an aeroscan. This test would help show how much we had improved over the course of the twoand-a- half-month training regime we had undertaken provided by Ignite, and also give us an insight into the best heart rate to train at whilst analyzing our energy consumption. Sounds a bit technical? Let me explain: According to AeroFit, the fitness brand that provides the apparatus here in the UAE, the aeroscan is a fact-based analysis of your individual metabolism that shall determine your optimal training zones for weight loss, fat burn, stamina, and sports fitness improvement. It is a 15-minute computerized breath analysis conducted while you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike. You start with a low intensity run which is gradually increased in stages until your body stops burning fat this is your anaerobic zone. Every two minutes, the device measures your breath for 30 seconds at a time and your complete metabolism is accurately analyzed on the spot. Taif from Up and Running conducted the hi-tech fitness test on me and Jane. I volunteered to do the test first as I was eager to know how it was done. First, my height was measured, then we headed for the weighing scale to get my actual weight (Id lost 6kgs!), and finally after that, I was made to bite and hold the plastic breathing apparatus with my mouth, initially while sitting for two minutes, then whilst going on a gradual walk-to-run transition on the treadmill for almost 15 minutes. A clip on the breath-recording apparatus was locked to my nose and I was then advised to fully breathe through my mouth. I did the work on the running machine and felt the moderate shift
of my breathing rise from taking easy gasps, to deep and heavily-controlled ones. After my test was done, Jane went through the same routine and also ran on the treadmill with the breathing mouthpiece, but she was made to do the test below the 15-minute standard. A few moments later, our test results were ready and we were told about our current fitness state; I have a low heart rate when I am at rest, which indicated that I am surprisingly fit for my size, but I need to work on a good mix of my base training zone or TZ1 and stamina training zone or TZ2 so I can burn more fat instead of carbohydrates as my energy source during our training. Jane was given the same advice, though her record showed that she was a bit anxious after having tallied a high heart rate. A week after the aeroscan analysis at Up and Running, Jane and I went to Go Sport Ibn Battuta Mall who gladly supplied the necessary apparel that well need for our 10km run in November. This included shoes from Vivobarefoot for Jane and myself, training tops and pants for Jane from USA Pro and Shock Absorber, and training tops from Karrimor for me. (All the brands mentioned are exclusively available at GO Sport Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates and Mirdif City Centre). Jane and I were both amazed by the running shoe that the guys from Go Sport had chosen for us to use a pair of special barefoot shoes from Vivobarefoot. I was a bit skeptical at the simple design of the specialized running shoes at first as Im used to basketball shoes or bigger trainers, but soon Sheryl and Abbas from Vivobarefoot gave us a rundown on how the shoes worked. The Vivobarefoot Shoes design aims to provide injury-free running through toe to heel contact instead of heel to toe which is common in most normal running shoes due to the elevation. With only 6mm of padding separating our feet from the ground, we were advised to walk with the shoes before we make a transition to running with them as it encourages proprioception, which is the communication of your environment to your brain through the nerves in your feet.
Barefoot running is about relaxed posture and good rhythm. Being flatfooted has always been a sad fact that I had learnt to live with, but apparently running in barefoot shoes trains you to have a flat collapsible arch. So you land on your forefoot, flat arch and then heel. Having a duck-like pair gives me the upper edge to correct my running style.
Keep following us as the training for our first big run on the 24th November in Abu Dhabi continues with Ignite Fitness & Wellness. The main improvements we have seen over the course of the last month have been stamina, weight loss, overall fitness and wellbeing, and although we still have a long way to go, we feel amazing compared to when we first started out. My hopes are high that Jane and I will make even more progress as we continue on with our training before the big day. Wish us luck!
to Be Continued
Angelo Cabrera
OUTDOORUAE
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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
in September By Benjamin George

start WE made an earlyand on the Friday arrived at the Eastern Mangrove Resort at 06:45 hours. I am not sure why, but we expected it to be quiet at the resort that time of the morning but the car park seemed busy with other people dressed like us. Because we are dressed for kayaking, we followed the instructions and walked around the outside of the hotel, along the public promenade to the marina. I guess the five star resort is not yet ready for this kind of adventurer.
KayaK MangrovE Tour

two others to join our group so we chatted to some of those making their way out in the morning. Quite a mix! Two visiting businessmen and fishing enthusiasts were renting fishing kayaks to go out and see what they could catch. There was a bunch of South African ladies who rented kayaks weekly to go out and do their own thing every Friday morning exploring the mangroves and the islands. They were renting SUPs for the first time this morning to join the mix and there was much talk about the new Noukhada SUPs and SUP lessons. Our other two tour members arrived and we were ready for the group safety and paddle briefing. Roger, our guide, briefed us and then led us to the beach. It seems amazing that, on an island that boasts 8km of coastline, it is so difficult to get in the water. Noukhada told us that they have spent some AED 30,000 building a launch platform to get guests into the water safely. It looked like something out of Star Wars in massive blue plastic lego. Anyway, it worked and we set off paddling past the construction site and into nature. In the meantime, an Eco Tour and the ladies with kayaks and SUPs had set off and promised to meet us halfway round. The kayaking was at a gentle pace and Roger ensured we stayed together as a group. We passed Asian fishermen collecting clams, on an industrial scale, from the shores and then turned the corner into the mangroves. I had not expected to see so much wildlife in Abu Dhabi but we saw a plethora of birds from Stints, Plovers, Terns, Herons and even the Flamingoes in the distance. At one stage in the tour fish jumped over one kayak causing squeals and giggles. We paddled down Crab Alley looking closely for sea creatures but sadly, being September, high tide and dredging, we could not see much. The industrial drone in the distance rather spoilt the sounds of nature and we were told that this was the dredging for the Royal Place at the north-
ern end of the mangroves. Dont they have enough land mass already? The paddle was easy, not technical, but still a very pleasant, non-brunch way to spend a Friday morning. We got back within two hours and yes, we did pass the ladies and their kayaks and SUPs. I am told by Roger that I probably burned over 900
As we walked past the empty infinity pool the mangroves loomed large to our left in the high tide. The Noukhada base was easy to spot with kayaks, SUPs and a small sailing boat being the only watercraft in the otherwise empty marina. As we walked towards the small collection of people a guide greeted us. The formalities, signing the waiver and making payment, were dealt with smoothly and efficiently. We had to wait for
calories doing the tour, so reckoned we were good for a big breakfast. For the future? I am intrigued by the City Cycle Tour that goes live in September and, when I can get to those pedals, will sign up for that new Noukhada adventure. For more details, see: www.noukhada.ae, info@noukhada.ae or 02 650 3600.
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OUTDOORUAE
Downtime is a great opportunity to reconnect.
Marmot Insulated Jacket Collection Just one way Marmot helps you bond with nature.
Photography: Klaus Kranebitter and Gabe Rogel
marmot.com facebook.com/marmotpro
Thetrack of Neil andRun training updates as they get Cold Diarmuids We keep
42 k -20C
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
+40C
ARCTIC TREME
themselves fit and ready for their run in the Polar Circle Marathon
These fine gentlemen have been stepping up the intensity of their training as the countdown before the big day is nearing to a close. Arctic Xtremes Neil Munro and Diarmuid OMalley have been very keen on turning those leg muscles into steel before they take on the coldest endurance test of their lives; the mighty Polar Circle Marathon that will take place in Kangerlussuaq, Iceland this 20th October.
in the marathon sporting Roman outfits. Every 2km throughout the route the refreshment tables served the usual water and energy drinks, alongside glasses of wines and various food delicacies from the region. We managed to eat our way through apples, steaks, cheeses, oysters One of group commented that it felt like a Dubai brunch with a little bit of running getting in the way! he added. Due to a calf injury which has slowly built up through the past two months, Neil has also had a series of massages and medical assessments to treat it. He said that it can be easily remedied by taking ibuprofen and no adjustments would have to be made regarding the current pace of his training. Neil is looking forward to completing the final long training session and to get in a couple of runs over 30km. This is a real challenge in the sweaty September of Dubai and we may have to combine indoor and outdoor activity to help get our legs used to running for over 3 hours, essential for any good marathon preparation, he said. Neil noted that it is always important to give ones body a little bit of a reprieve and
Neil is faring very well with his training and has aimed to cover as much as 60km each week in his running sessions. His running training involves putting in hefty amounts of kilometres into his legs, covering as much as 20km per day, four times a week, plus the early morning runs he does over the weekends. Neil commented that the heat and humidity at this time of year in Dubai make it quite tough to manage long runs of more than 20km. Good hydration has become of vital importance for my training, he said. Neil has also been doing gym and circuit training four to five times a week that focus on muscle building and core strength for a hardened build coming into the race. He has also done hill-training with a few of his friends at Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain, where they ran 12km with a 1,200m ascent all the way to the top. He explained that this type of training is important as they have to prepare for what will be a fairly hilly and challenging course in the race. Neil also completed the Marathon Du Medoc on 8th September in Bordeaux, France, where he had loads of fun with some of his Dubai friends. Its [The Marathon Du Medoc] a truly unique marathon in that over 90 percent of the runners are in fancy dress and wine is served at each refreshment table through the route! It is safe to say that the finishing time was pretty much irrelevant and having an enjoyable run was much more important! he concluded. A group of his friends from the Dubai Creek Striders running club who participated
build glycogen stores to get ready for the big day. He added that the paradox is that fitness levels have raised during the previous training periods and your body becomes quite used to pretty intensive training. As you slow down activity there is a temptation to release all the stored energy and there is a sense of being a coiled spring waiting to go! he said. Meanwhile, Diarmuid has had to adjust his training programme a bit due to troublesome backaches that he has been dealing with for some time. On the bright side, he has found a way to get training and move forward with what he has to do to prepare himself for his run. Thankfully, through the capable hands and physiotherapy machines of many different healthcare professionals in Dubai and in Ireland Im back running again, which is fantastic if only the humidity went away so I could get the long runs in! he said. Diarmuid had spent a week in Spain during the summer and felt that it was the perfect place to start his running again on the hills of Cardona, a small village in the mountains close
to Barcelona. But of course, the gritty runner had to take extra care of himself during his running sessions to keep his back trouble at bay. I really had to take it easy with my back while running downhill. My brothers wife who is quite an accomplished runner and has the added advantage of also being a physiotherapist ran with me a bit and was a great help telling me what to do and not to do to re-aggravate my back, he explained. After his stint near Barcelona, Diarmuid had planned to do a half-marathon run in his homeland, Ireland on 2nd September but decided not to risk his problematic back. Instead, he opted for a long training run on the relatively flat lands of Killarney National Park in County Kerry to get in the mileage. There is nothing like the adrenaline of running in a race which is something that is never going to be matched on a training run, but to be back running was progress and I didnt want to set myself back after two good weeks of training, he said. Diarmuid returned to Dubai and to his running training, but like Neil, he also had to bear the brunt of the hot and humid weather and must keep himself constantly hydrated. On one 17km 5 a.m. run I lost 3.5kg which I know may sound great to some people, but it is in fact very dangerous and one needs to be very careful training under these humid conditionspeople [must] know the limits of what they can do and what runners call the dreaded bonk, he said. No matter how difficult things may get for them both, the Arctic Xtreme running tandem keeps going by thinking of the 200 Vietnamese kids that they will be able to put through school through the Christina Noble Childrens Foundations Sunshine School project. If you would like to help them out, you can make a donation via http://www.justgiving.com/arcticxtreme and support the Arctic Xtreme team in their noble cause. To Be Continued
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OUTDOORUAE
off-road for adventure, live yourwith adventure Adventure life with Safety Do not risk your life
Breath-taking motocross stunts, sensational locations and top-class tracks greatly induce the adventure lovers to get into off-road motorcycling. It is an awesome and thrilling recreational sport but more often than not, enthusiasts overlook the most important aspect of it: Safety Gear. Although safety gear can be cumbersome or intrusive, it is the only thing which can help you save your life in the end.
Motocross is an off-road sport, which takes place over very rough terrain, with sharp turns and steep hills. Professional motocross races have long durations; most of the times over thirty minutes, while amateur races are usually very short, sometimes with even less than five minutes. And throughout this duration, a rider must be able to control a two hundred pound bike, while maintaining top speed, going through mud, sand, climbing hills and taking hairpin turns. This requires high attention and extreme comfort to remain focused. To achieve this critical objective many top-notch brands are dedicatedly working to improve off-road safety with more comfort to the rider, for example the all time hit Fox 360 Ryan Dungey Rockstar Replica race wear and latest Fox Racing V4 Helmet.
This special edition is named after the off-road champion Ryan Dungey and was launched in 2011, based on its comfort and style, this design was highly appreciated among the enthusiast, therefore, Fox Racing decided to continue this model in 2012 and 2013. It is an extension of the premier gear line; the Fox 360 Rockstar Jersey blends world-class performance features with two of the most insane graphics designers have ever come up with. The 360 line sets the industry standard for purpose built race wear. High quality materials, automatically functional features, immaculate attention to detail characterize this marquee lineup, and the wide range of graphics and styles satisfy every creative craving imaginable. Whereas the 360 Ryan Dungey pants consist of more technical features such as: ergonomic precurved RAP, construction for perfect fit in ride position, double layer knee panels for enhanced durability, high abrasion resistant woven inner panel with heat and abrasion resistant outer panel, quad stretch front gusset to help unrestricted movement, vented TPR thigh, fly-Cam waist closure for easy waist adjustment and secure fit, natural cuff lower leg for less material in boot and much more. This race wear not only helps you to look good while racing, but also gives you extreme comfort in tough racing conditions. It is always recommended, while choosing the safety gear, may it be helmet, gloves or jersey, always keep in your mind the track & weather conditions, distance and stunt requirement.
REPORT
Culture of the Paddle

Photo By: Jen Scully
With a noticeable and rising trend of several paddlesport activities peppering the coastlines of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and elsewhere in the country too, you cant help but wonder what all the fuss is about. The paddle culture is not new to the UAE, as a nation with history steeped in sailing and boating, paddling was also an integral way to move through the Arabian waters. In the last 5 years however, a new-age love for the paddle has become viral. Its on the tip of everyones tongues; groups, clubs, social events, meets, competitions, and anything to do with paddling is all around us. Due to its accessible nature, paddling has not only become an important part of our outdoor lifestyles; whether youre a weekend warrior or an outdoor junkie but has contributed to a growing subculture here in the UAE that has brought the community closer together.
Over the course of this article, we take a closer look at two of the biggest paddling activities that have taken over the countrys coastlines and find out more about why the paddle culture has grown so quickly from the movers and shakers here in the UAE.
SUP Standing Tall

According to sources, Stand-Up Paddling or Stand-Up Paddle surfing (SUP) has been around for hundreds of years, and traces its roots in the islands of Hawaii where the early natives used it as an alternative form of surfing, and as a means of transport to getting from village to village around the islands. Their native term for the paddlesport is Ku Hoe Hee Nalu, which means to stand, to paddle, to surf a wave. SUPing is a relatively new sport in the UAE. Alongside with its SUP enthusiasts, Surf Dubai played a big role of popularizing the paddlesport when the shop began
selling SUP boards in the country six years ago. Since then, SUPing has been drawing a lot of interest and following in the countrys waters for good and practical reasons. Its so easy [to learn] all you need is five minutes and thats it. You can practice it everywhere: sea, river, lake even in your swimming pool, you can cruise, wave riding, racing, fishing SUP, etc. said Ronan Jolle from Yas Marina, who also organizes SUP events both in the marina and more recently at Wadi Adventure in Al Ain. [Another main] reason for the trend towards SUPs here in the UAE was the fact that surfers went without waves for weeks on end and we needed something to do to keep us fit and on the water, says Surf Dubais Dan Van Dooren, who has been one of the active promoters of the paddlesport here in Dubai and elsewhere. SUPing is a great alternative to surfing that gives you that feeling of standing on a board in the ocean! he added. Meanwhile, Jen Scully, who heads the Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle Club, shares the paddlesports all-around nature, which
Photo By: Ian Ganderton
also accounts for its popularity among its followers. Stand-Up Paddling offers so much variety which is why it appeals to many different peopleif youre looking for just plain fun, you head out with your friends paddling flat water and simply enjoy being out there, she said. Other activities that Scully told of and that can be tried with an SUP board are Standup surf or SUP whitewater for those like to try something a little more extreme, SUP
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racing for the competitive types, whereas the fitness buffs could have a go for Yoga or Pilates on a SUP and train on their balance. SUP expert Leigh Pothecary also noted the physiological benefits of the paddlesport to a persons wellness being a good form of exercise. SUP is a great core work out. Whilst paddling, you are probably using almost every muscle in your body, he said. Regular paddlers get fit and in shape very quickly; an hour a day over a month will have you seeing great results. Over the past 5 years, the community has seen a massive growth from only a handful to hundreds of boarders over the UAE, and
Photo By: Jen Scully Photo By: Ian Ganderton
with SUP racing events happening in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, you will find enthusiasts from all different backgrounds getting together and competing or just joining in for the fun of it. A great example of this was at the most recent SUP Race and Waves Master that took place at Wadi Adventure on the 28th of September, organised and supported by Wadi Adventure, Yas Marina, UAE SUP Abu Dhabi, and Surf Dubai. There were around 30 to 50 competitors, not to mention families, supporters and outdoor enthusiasts all coming together to have a great day out. The general community here has received it extremely well. If you go to any of the beaches around Abu Dhabi or Dubai you will more than likely see people enjoying paddleboarding. There seems to be a healthy curiosity to try it out and it seems that most people who try it continue on with it, Wadi Adventures Ryley Heffernan, Looking towards the bright future of SUPing in the Middle East, Jen Scully adds, It will definitely continue to grow just by the fact that is growing worldwide. I would love to see more races and athletes crossing over, using SUP astraining for triathlon, cycling, running and even including SUP in their events. Overall SUPing is a paddlesport worth getting involved in, not just for the paddling but the community camaraderie, a great day out by all can be had at these events. Most of them are free to attend and more than likely someone, somewhere will have a free SUP for you to try out. There are some key people mentioned through this article that have been really pushing the paddlesport forward and are all down to earth and very approachable. From their great efforts and positive attitude, the paddlesport is really coming together this season in terms of races, competitions and community events. If you want to find out more or how to get involved here are some handy places to start:
www.abudhabisup.com www.facebook.com/SurfDubai www.facebook.com/uaesup

(The SUP Winter League 2012-2013 calendar is now up and you can find this on the UAESUP Facebook group). The next couple of events to look out are Battle for the Paddle 3 and the Dubai Sunset SUP Classic, which are both featured in our events schedule for October.
Dragon Boat Racing Paddling as One

The stories about the origin of dragon boat racing are somewhat colorful. According to the Hong Kong-based International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF), the sport of dragon boat racing has been around for about 5,000 years ago (another source dates it back to sometime around 2,000 years ago), and began in the southern provinces of China. The idea of incorporating the image of the dragon into the boats also has its own tales, but in the widely accepted Chinese tradition, dragons have been looked upon as creatures of protection and the highest and strongest ones that the Chinese can imagine. The mythical creatures had been believed to be associated with good spirits that always strive to win. So thats why turning boats into symbolic dragons where thought to be a tactic in stimulating a winning mentality among the paddlers. And from its Chinese roots, the paddlesport had spread into the far reaches of the globe spreading to the Americas, Africa, Europe, Oceania and of course, the Middle East region and especially here in the UAE. But how exactly did this oriental paddlesport get here? According to Jason Mackenzie, head of the UAE Dragon Boat Association, (who kick-started the dragon boat racing scene here), it all began about 7 years ago when a group of Dubai-based women decided to attend a dragon boat race in Malaysia. Since that time, the sport has grown to include over 5,000 annual participants, including several teams who compete at a very high level on the international circuit. Mackenzie says that the sport has the ability to show just how a team can achieve by working together and moving as one, no matter what the outcome of their hard
Photos by Dubai Diggers
paddling would be. According to him, this ability is a great moving factor about dragon boat racing. Dragon boating is special because it allows you to share the joy of victory and the agony of defeat with a large group of teammates. It also demonstrates that the sum of your team can often be greater the individual parts, Mackenzie noted. Dragon boating has done extremely well in the UAE and is just another example that brings the community together. Anybody can take part, the demographic on the boats is diverse as Mackenzie mentions and no matter what age, gender or fitness level you are, there will always be a place for everyone on the boat. More and more teams are forming around the UAE, which is excitingall the local teams take new members throughout the year, Jill Steinke, a member of the Dubai Diggers team, said as she explains just how fast is the dragon boating community growing in the country.
Dragon-boat addicts here are not an uncommon thing, and not only do they do the sport for fun and leisure, several of them have even competed in Olympic-class events and brought honor to the Emirati banner, too. Among them was the Dubai Diggers team, who were among the four dragon boat crews who carried the UAE banner at the IDBF Club Crew World Championships in Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong, and managed to bring home medals from the Olympic-class world dragon boat-racing event that was held last 4th to 8th of July. The paddling crew led by Nick Hando bagged gold medals in the 200 and 500-meter premier mixed races. A total of three of the four UAE-based crews were placed within the top ten in the 500m category. Its nice that the UAE has been put on the map within the international community of paddling, Steinke said, as she recalls the triumph of what her Dubai Diggers team had achieved last summer. With the active dragon boating community here in the country, things are also looking good in the future of the paddlesport in a nation that is filled with maritime history. There are plenty of dragon-boating crews around that you can join and get involved with. Visit www.dubaidragonboat.com to get a view of the current list of crews and a few details about each of them. Send your queries to uaedragonboat@gmail.com for more information. Or check for the UAE DBAs latest posts (and also OutdoorUAEs online calendar at www.outdooruae.com) to check for upcoming dragon boat events around the country.
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Discover the pleasures of Desert

If you are looking to do something different this season, why not get into horse riding or polo?
At Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club here in the UAE, you can certainly get your fill of any type of horse action. With a jam-packed schedule through the season for polo, riding, hacking, show jumping, dressage and much more, itll be easy to book yourself in and get a flavor for what horse riding is all about. Launched in April 2006, the club boasts a world-class training facility so you certainly know youre in good hands and you can partake in any of the activities listed here below: Polo Academy When you enroll in the Polo Academy you can learn to play polo in just three days. The programme includes both theory and practical training, and culminates in you playing a game and receiving a souvenir from the Polo Academy. Whether you wish to try something new or have ambitions of reaching the highest echelons of the game, this is the perfect way to begin your life-long enjoyment. Perfect the skills of show jumping Bold, powerful, precise - these are the main attributes of a great show jumping technique. At the Clubs Riding Academy, professional show jumping trainers develop the one ingredient that riders need most - the confidence to be a top-class show jumper. Be thrilled by the graceful art of dressage Dressage is always a thrill whether you are taking part or just a spectator. When executed well, a dressage routine is a thrilling
catch sight of wild gazelle and be enchanted by the breathtaking views of the spectacular landscape. This is truly an experience not to be missed! Events and Activities Schedule: The Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club has a packed events and competition schedule. Here are some highlighted events you can take part in either as a participant or spectator. Promotion/activity name: Desert Hacking Date: Every day except Monday Timing: Two times a day (sunrise and sunset) for 2 hours Venue: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Price: AED 300 per person Club Contact: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Al Qudra, Opposite Arabian Ranches Tel: 04 361 8111 or email: info@poloclubdubai.com Promotion/activity name: Season Opening Date: 19th October Timing: Venue: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Price: Car access 100 DHS per Car Club Contact: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Al Qudra, Opposite Arabian Ranches Tel: 04 361 8111 or email: info@poloclubdubai.com Promotion/activity name: Middle East International Polo Carnival and World Energy Gold Cup Date: 12th to 16th November 2012 Timing: Venue: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club Price: Car access 100 DHS per Car Club Contact: Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Al Qudra, Opposite Arabian Ranches Tel: 04 361 8111 or email: info@poloclubdubai.com
performance and a magnificent tribute to the years of diligent training behind it. The Clubs Riding Academy has dedicated a separate arena that is ideal for you to hone your dressage skills. Discover the pleasures of desert hacking Nothing can compare to watching the sun rise over the endless desert dunes from the saddle of your horse. This is just one of the exceptional pleasures of desert hacking available to riders at the Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club. Setting off in the early morning or late evening, you will be able to explore the areas unique fauna and flora,
OUTDOORUAE
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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
ThE hiGhEST
POiNT iN EUROPE
RETURNS viCTORiOUS AFTER REAChiNG ThE TOP OF MOUNT ElBRUS AT 5,642M
Al ThANi CliMBS TO
Sharjah, UAE, 17th September 2012 - Tackling new heights, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Thani, co-founder of Musafir.com, has successfully summited Mount Elbrus; his fifth adventure in the past two years in the name of Reach Out to Asia (ROTA) the Qatari non-governmental organisation focused on making quality education accessible across Asia, and more recently Rahhalahadventure travel partner offering a variety of active travel itineraries to many exotic and wild destinations around the globe.
Joining him on the climb to the tallest peak in Europe at 5,642m, were Massoud Kalafchi, Raed Zidan, Ziad Al-Sharabi, Ali Jaber and Abdulaziz Kafoud, along with videographer, Elia Saikaly. Together, the group forms Arabs with Altitude, a team of adrenaline-rush seeking explorers who trek the globe in search of higher heights to reach. Mount Elbrus, a dormant volcano along the Caucasus mountain range in south Russia, has a permanent icecap that feeds 22 glaciers. While the climb is not considered the most technically difficult, it does require the use of crampons and an ice axe, while facing high altitudes, fog, wind and extreme cold conditions. Come day of the summit, the climbers were faced with a tough decision a storm was brewing that would make conditions
exponentially worse. When asked by the guide if the group wanted to take the risk or wait four days, the climbers decided to move forward. Al Thani explained that this climb is a test of stamina, The day of the summit was characterised by winds so strong (100km/ hr), it was picking up snow and throwing it at us. In the face of skies that would not clear up, and temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius; we all agreed not to turn back, and to continue to trudge forward in reaching the goal we had set out to achieve. He adds, The tricky part was the descent. With wind trying to blow us off of the mountain, we had to maintain control and balance because one slip and youre gone. With each climb, Al Thani continues to work in collaboration with organisations that motivate people to dream big and do more. ROTA, for one, continues to champion the cause of education as a right for every child. Rahhalah a recent entrant into causes dear to Al Thanis heart inspires people to look outside clich vacation ideas, moving out of their comfort zones to explore the entire splendor that the world has to offer, with a focus on eco, cultural and wellness, while always respecting the lands visited, along with their people and their culture. Al Thani, I am moved by causes that motivate people to move; to change their perceptions or the way things have always been in the search for something better. With each climb, I move out of my comfort zone but come closer to becoming the individual I aspire to be. The recent adventure joins four other challenging climbs that include Mount Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua, Blanc and Vinson. Al Thani concludes by reiterating that each climb is a distinct achievement on a rewarding journey, Along the way I have learned to appreciate each mountain for its own set of challenges. Every summit is a lesson in patience, and is a call to the notion that when the going gets tough, the tough get going.
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Sheikh Mohammed Al Thanis adventures can be followed on www. twitter.com/moealthani and www.musafir.com Reach Out To Asia is a non-profit organization launched in December 2005 in Doha, Qatar, by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, daughter of His Highness the Emir of Qatar. Operating under the auspices of the Qatar Foundation, ROTA is committed to providing high quality and relevant primary and secondary education, encouraging relationships among communities, creating safe learning environments and restoring education in crisis affected areas across Asia and around the world. ROTA envisions a world, where all young people have access to the education they need in order for them to realize their full potential and shape the development of their communities. Further information on Reach Out To Asia can be found at: www. reachouttoasia.org.
About ROTA
Founded in 1995 by His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar, and chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser Al Misned, Qatar Foundation is a private, non-profit organization committed to the principle that a nations greatest natural resource is its people. The headquarters of Qatar Foundation are located within its flagship project, EducationCity. A fourteen million square-metre campus, EducationCity is home to numerous progressive learning institutions and centers of research, including branch campuses of six of the worlds leading universities, plus a cutting-edge science and technology park. Qatar Foundation also works to enhance the quality of life in Qatar by investing in Education, Science and Technology and Community Health and Development.
About Qatar Foundation
REPORT
RIDE BIKE SHOP OPENS

ITS
DOORS
Get ready for the ride of your life!

From the people who brought the region its first chain of professional bike shops, ride Bike shop is finally opening their much-anticipated store on sheikh Zayed road in Dubai. The new megastore will be the largest bike shop in the region, with a total area just under 5,000 square feet! it will also be home to the largest workshop and service centre utilizing an area of approximately 1,500 square feet!
some of their key brands, which they distribute throughout the GCC and Middle East region. Therefore the work shop and service center of this amazing store will also be the master service center for brands such as Fox, Mavic, Giant, Crank Brothers and others. With its spacious layout that includes a lounge area to relax and watch some biking videos, whilst sipping on a cup of coffee, customers will really enjoy the overall experience. They have even set up a purpose built bike fitting room that will be the new home of the state-of-art Retul Bike Fitting System. So customers can always walk away with a peace of mind that they have also been properly fitted for their bikes. It also has a Bike Spa room, so you can also bring your bikes back for some tender loving care. The store will be making its grand opening on weekend of the 11th of October, so ride on down and pay us a visit; well be giving away goody bags and bunches of free stuff to kick-start your cycling adventures here in the Middle East! Feel free to call Ride on 04-339502 for more information about the event or anything else. You can also get the latest updates about our stores and offerings at www.ridebikeshop.com and www.facebook. com/ridebikeshop.
Covering most areas of cycling, Ride Bike Shop stocks a vast range of Bicycles, Bicycle Parts & Accessories, Cycling Footwear & Apparel, nutritional products, and much more. Brands include Giant, Topeak, Mavic, Fox, Saris, CycleOps, Shimano, Garmin, Polar, GoPro, and Oakley to name but a few. Owned by Dubai Desert Extreme, the Ride Bike Shop on Sheikh Zayed Road will also act as the Master Service Centre for
ROAD, RACING, MTB, BMX, LIFESTYLE AND YOUTH THE LARGEST SELECTION OF GIANT BIKES BIGGEST BIKE SHOP IN THE REGION FRIENDLY, KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF EFFICIENT IN-STORE WORKSHOP OPEN, SPACIOUS STORE GREAT LOCATION
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD STORE NOW OPEN!

NOTE: in white option remove the outline when using it in the creative
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WWW.RIDEBIKESHOP.COM MIRDIFF CITY CENTRE - 04-2840038
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD - 04-3395602
Home Away from Home at the Sonapani Village

in Uttaranchal, India
by: Delna Prakashan
Some of the most rewarding and rejuvenating holidays have been my trips to the Himalayan mountains. On one such holiday I visited the Sonapani Village, an eco-lodge set on a mountain ridge and amidst the backdrop of a 175-degree view of the Himalayas in Uttarakhand, one of the northern states in India. Located at a height of 2000metres and spread over a 20-acre land, the Village has 12 independent cottages interspaced with stone pathways and flowerbeds. Sonapani is a also home to plum, apple, apricot and peach orchards while oak, rhodendron and pine forest surround the area.
To arrive at Sonapani, it is a 6 hour train journey to Kathgodamfrom the New Delhi train station and then 3 hour up-hill road journey. Enroute we stopped for somegaram (which means hot in Hindi) chaiserved in smallmatkas(small earthenware cups) and enjoying the first few glimpses of the mountains. Sonapani, the Himalayan Village, is a dream come true project for Ashish Arora, the owner and over my 4 day stay at his resort, I had many opportunities to engage in conversations with him learning how he brought his passion to life which today draws people near and far, promising to offer them an experience of a lifetime. Sonapaniruns on the ethics of care for the people who work there, the community, the guests and the environment. The famous
Himalayan views from Sonapani
Pine forests
Crisp Sunlight
Reading amidst nature
At Sonapani, the philosophy of sustainability is eminent. There is hardly any factory made or processed foods. Organic and responsible farming is practiced in the area. Even the bread is made at home using grains such as wheat, millet and buckwheat. The cuisine served is mainly Kumaoni cuisine, which goes after the name of the mountain region. Mind you, this cuisine may not appealing to the eye, but it is very healthy, lean and rich in protein and most importantly, delicious! I could taste the freshness in every bite and during my stay I managed to note down a recipe or two! Sonapani is a haven for outdoor and nature lovers. Lighter activities include forest walks,local village and school visits to more adventurous activities like river crossing and rappelling. I cherish the quiet morning hours I woke up to do my yoga practice facing the Himalayan Mountains, which was truly divine and magical. Leaving Sonapani was like leaving your home for a long break. I knew I would return someday and Im really excited that this Eid-Al-Adha Ill be joining a group for a Yoga Retreat at the Sonapani Village! I cant wait to experience tranquility and magic all over again. Delna Prakashan is a Dubai-based food and travel writer. She blogs at triedandtestedbydelna.wordpress.com If you want to go on a trip like this get in touch with Delna at delna.prakashan@gmail. com or visit www.liv2lead.com for more information on the retreat.
Bricks made my hand by the local people
Indian statement of hospitality Atithidevbhavo (translated in English means Guests are next to God)- is not just a statement at Sonapani, but a reality. Everyone on the staff has been working with Sonapani since its inception and you can sense their belonging to Sonapani is as deep as the foundations of the place.
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PRODUCTS
A round-up of quality products available right here in the UAE
Fox Racing 360 Ryan Dungey Rockstar Jersey 250 AED
Available at: Al Yousuf Motors Showrooms Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Al Ain, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah The Limited Edition 360 Ryan Dungey Rockstart Replica Jersey is meant for stylish motocross racing with following key characteristics: Polyester main body fabric with mesh back panel for enhanced airflow. Articulated padded elbows. Bold sublimated graphics for fade free washing. New rib knit cuffs Athletic perforated V-neck neckband. Drop tail at back panel keeps jersey tucked in pants.
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Columbia Strata D Fleece Jacket 495 AED

Available at: Dubai: Ibn Battuta, Mall of the Emirates, The Dubai Mall, Mirdif City Centre Abu Dhabi : Al Wahda Mall Omni-Wind Block features a technically advanced membrane that provides breathable wind protection the wind chill is kept from coming in but perspiration is allowed to escape. The result is best in class breathability.
Hypnotize 4/3 D/L Longarm Shorty Women 1,110 AED

Available at: Adventure HQ, Shamal Kitesurfing Size: X-small, Small, Medium, Large , Colour: Black/Purple Details: Hypnotize Women : Back Zip Suit with 100% M-Flex neoprene, Iso-prene back panel for added insulation, GBS stitching, reinforced with critical taping and Teddy-prene lining. Its hardcore and pretty at the same time. M-Flex (Tri-span) 100%, Teddy prene (Plush), Lightweight neoprene, GBS (Glued Blind Stitched), Critical taping inside, Back zip, Double neck construction, Backup shield, Key pocket
vivobarefoot Ultra (Men and Women) 355 AED

*Price for Kids size: 185 AED Available at: Exclusive to Go Sports. Mens, Ladies and Kids The Kids range is available at Vincent Shoe Store & Stitches The ultra-lightweight barefoot amphibious running shoe. Amphibious, Coastal and Light Trail. Suitable for: light trail cross training, water sports, long runs or general beachside and urban barefoot exploration. Tech Details: Out sole thickness 6mm, Weight Mens 114g/4oz (no sock) Ladies 77g/2.7oz (no sock), Ultra thin puncture resistant sole Maximum proprioception and protection. Modular design Removable plug-in antibacterial stretchy mesh tongue and/or sock for puncture resistance and climate control. Lock-lacing system Elastic cord and lock-lacing system for a quick, secure and personalised fit. Natural foot-flex VB integrated 3D upper-outsole with perforated upper and dual density high-abrasion hex-flex outsole.
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Aqualung AirDry Snorkel 75 AED

Available at: GO Sport Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif City Centre The snorkel has a dual purge valve that ensures quick and easy clearing, and has unique splash guards in position that can be adjusted. A large volume reservoir keeps residual water out of the breathing path. The rotating mouthpiece can also be adjusted to the most comfortable position, and the Comfo-Bite mouthpiece is replaceable.
Aqualung traveller Dry 380 AED

Available at: GO Sport Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Mirdif C City Centre The Aqualung Traveller Dry Bag made with tarpolin. It has a dimension of 85 cm x 35 cm x 45 cm with 130 litres worth of Yvolume. It has two handles and shoulder strap, two screwed valves and a U-shape for the opening. CM
MY M
CY
CMY
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Available at: Jumbo House Showroom-Bur-Dubai, Ace Hardware Outlets, Adventure HQ, Yellow Hat, Lulu Al Barsha, Emax Electronics. Online Products Available at www.blingmytruck.com The CF-60 has the same optimised footprint as the CF-50, only the height has increased. This means there is a full 60 litres cooling volume available - that is enough for provisions for multiple trips. Excellent power for normal cooling and freezing. Convenient handles add to easy transport. Lockable digital control thermostat Set & Forget (Memory Function), Built in three stage battery protection. Polypropylene construction. VMSO (Variable Motor Speed Optimisation) with Soft start and Auto Turbo function. Emergency function. Flush mounted evaporator late. Interior LED light. Reinforced wire basket with divider. Strong handles act as tie down points. Danfoss BD-35F compressor with inbuilt 240 volt. Detachable lid (plug-in lid mount, variable left/right). Vertical space for 2 litre bottles. Holds 81 cans.
Waeco Compressor Cooler CF-60 3,799 AED
SHOEI vFx-W Dissent tC7 2,380 AED

Available at: Sebsports, Tel: +97143393399, www.sebsports.com SHOEI VFX-W Dissent TC7 Helmets have four shell and five liner sizes to increase the comfort fit for each individual rider. The helmet comes complete with a 3D Mac-Dry Removable Liner System that absorbs and discharges moisture 2 times faster than traditional helmet liner material. In addition to help keep the rider dry and cool is the flow through ventilation system. This is a new favorite amongst MX riders because the front intake vents combine with the rear vents to pass air through, causing the negative air pressure to escape through the rear vent. The Shoei VFX-W Helmet is one of the safest on the market making it a smart choice. Make this one yours today!
Spy Screw Sunglasses (Matthew Busche Signature Model) 544 AED

Available at: Sebsports, Tel: +97143393399, www.sebsports.com The SPY Screw, Matthew Busche Model, are performance sport sunglasses with fog-free and interchangeable lenses for your pleasure. Built from high quality Grilamid, Signature patented Scoop Venting System, 7 Base ARC (Accurate Radius Curvature), Impact Resistance Polycarbonate Lenses, Replacement Lenses Available For All Light Conditions, Hytrel Rubber Nose Pads and Temple Tips, 100% UV Protection
Marmot AEGIS Jacket 803 AED

Available at: Adventure HQ Weve combined superior weather beating performance with a wealth of creature comforts to create the Aegis jacket. MemBrain Strata fabric sheds water and breathes easily to keep you dry. Hand warmer pockets featuring water resistant zippers, DriClime lined collar and cuffs, PitZips, and an adjustable hood that rolls into the collar, all add up to an essential backcountry companion. Marmot MemBrain Strata Waterproof / Breathable Fabric, 100% Seam Taped - For Full Waterproofness, Attached Adjustable Hood that Rolls Into Collar - gives you the option to tuck-away when not needed, Handwarmer Pockets with Water Resistant Zipper Sleeve Pocket with Water-Resistant Zipper - Sleeve Pocket with W/R Zipper, Angel-Wing Movement - Allows Full Range of Motion in Arms so Jacket Doesnt Ride Up, The back print pattern is carefully designed to achieve the maximum durability and breathability.
Naish trainer kite 599AED (1,3sqm) & 799 AED (2sqm)

Available at: Go Sports The Dubai Mall Naish Trainer Kite Excellent for training! Fun for kiters and families. The best quality and performing stunt foil stunt on the market! This stunt kite is built solid, with super strong lines, flies like a real traction kite. Can be used for land purpose or trainer for kite surfing. Comes complete with kite, control bar, line set, shoulder kite bag, and manual.
Pakula Softease Fang Lures 120-220 AED

Available at: Dubai Gardens Centre, Sheikh Zayed Rd. Ocean Active : +971505022924 Pakula Softease Fang lures are an update of our highly successful and innovative Softease lure range that was introduced in 1997 and ceased production in 2007. Developed by Peter Pakula, they were the first soft lure heads made from Polyurethane, the first soft lure heads to include inserts and the first soft lure heads to be hand made using a process developed by Peter Pakula that ensured that each lure was identical. The Softease also included the UV and other additives that helped make these lures one of the most famous ranges and brands in game fishing lure history. Perfect lure to entise any Bill fish if they nearby and loads of other Big game fish.
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Cruiser
by: Ella Mae Powell
Bikes
Times have changed and the variety of bicycles available today is huge but the Cruiser bike reminds me very much of my big red bike. Cruiser bikes were first made in America in 1933 and they were the most popular bicycle in the United States right through until the 1950s. They were built for comfort and to be durable. They have wide wheels, a heavy frame, an upright seating posture with a big wide seat, large handlebars, pedal brakes and no gears. In the 1970s the Cruiser frames and balloon type tyres formed the basis of the newly developed mountain bike. This ignited a resurgence of Cruiser bikes and with their comfort, style and affordability (compared to
One of the happiest days of my life was on my tenth birthday waking up in the morning and at the end of my bed was a big, red bike. The bike was much bigger than me but that didnt stop me learning how to ride it and riding it every day until it fitted me so to speak. of course in those days you only got one bike which lasted you a lifetime.
Mountain and Racing bikes) has lead to renewed popularity in recent years. The seat and handlebars can be adjusted which is great because to get the most out of cycling you need to be comfortable and that means making adjustments for your leg and arm span. They are a leisure bike and really good fun to ride. Cycling is one of the easiest ways to exercise and it has many health benefits which even in leisure riding can apply.
Builds muscle tone and strength especially in the lower half of your body. Excellent for mobility of hip and knee joint especially if you have had an injury in these areas.Improves co-ordination, arm to leg, feet to hands, body to eye. A good way to build stamina, when you are cycling you dont notice if you have gone further than the last time you were out. Improves co-ordination, arm to leg, feet to hands, body to eye. Your heart pounds in a steady manner which improves cardio-vascular fitness Burns calories and increases metabolism even after the ride is over, of course this depends on how fast and how long you cycle.
The best benefit for me though is just being outside, feeling the breeze on my face and looking at the different people and scenes that you pass on your ride. After a stressful days work it is the most relaxing workout for my mind. It is an exercise where you can talk so that if my partner wants to come with me we can discuss anything in a very conducive setting which is relatively private.
So where can you leisure ride in Dubai? The Lakes, Springs, Meadows and Arabian Ranches all have speed bumps, which helps in reducing the speed of the cars if you want to ride in the street. Mashreq Park, Al Barsha Park, Mamzar Beach Park, Meydan Cycle Park and Creek Park all have facilities for riding bikes. Dubai Marina and Jumeirah 1 Open Beach you are allowed to ride bikes. Organised riding venues are Motorcity Autodrome Wednesday nights 6pm - 9pm and the Dubai Roadsters ride in groups from Lime Tree Caf Jumeriah Friday mornings 6.00am (5.30am Summers) The Dubai Garden Centre stock Men and Womens Cruiser bikes and they are available in four amazing colours. Bright Pink, Fluorenscent green, Cream and Red (You can guess which colour I have.) They retail at only AED 995.
TENTS | SLEEPING BAGS | RUCSACS | TRAVEL BAGS | CAMPING ACCESSORIES
OUTDOORUAE
Available at: Go Sport in Dubai Mall, Adventure HQ in Times Square Center Distributor
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PRODUCT REVIEW
Columbia
Strata D FleeCe
I have to be honest. I have a problem. I am a gear junkie; my wife knows it, my friends know it, I know it. I have a storage room that would give Batman gear envy, but in all of the bins, boxes, shelves and closets, I dont own anything made by Columbia. So when I was asked to do a product review for a Columbia jacket, I was curious and up for the challenge.
The product in question is the Strata D fleece jacket,which incorporates Columbias new Omni Wind Technology. First, I want to talk briefly about the Omni technology from Columbia. In 2008,they developed their first line called Omni Shade, a lightweight line of clothing that offered breathability and maximum sun protection, at the time not they were not the only company doing this, but certainly, one of the few. In 2009, they released two new products, Omni Shield, which repels stains and smells, and Omni Freeze, which provides active cooling when it comes into contact with sweat. Then in 2010 came Omni Heat in passive format, which incorporates small metal reflective dots similar to the technology used in space blankets to reflect heat while providing breathability, and active format, which incorporates warming using electricity as well. Omni Dry came out in 2011, a waterproof breathable which again, at the time was not anything new to the market. Finally, in 2012 came Omni Wick, wicking moisture away from the body allowing rapid
evaporation, Omni Freeze (new and improved) and Omni Wind, which blocks wind while still allowing breathability. The reason I am telling you about all this technology is not because on their own they are ground breaking technologies, but when Columbia starts to mix and match these technologies into single items of clothing, the possibility for something unique and innovative certainly exits. According to the label on the jacket,three technologies are incorporated into its design; Omni Heat, Omni Shield and Omni Wind.
The jacket is a blue bonded fleece with elastic cuffs on the wrists and drawstrings in the bottom hem for trapping heat and keeping the elements out. On close inspection, the stitching inside the jacket is excellent. Poor stitching in an item of clothing is a sign of poor production quality and equals short life span of the product. The zipper has quadruple stitching, all the edges are sealed and the reflective layer is double and triple stitched in places.In fact, I couldnt find any weak areas in the build of the jacket. Even
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the zipper has a specially formed plastic grip textured on the outside and designed to lock down in place when not in use. I am very impressed with the attention paid to detail in the design and manufacturing quality of the product. Trying the jacket on for the first time, it felt comfortable and had a very sturdy, solid build. Zipping it up fully, the collar is just big enough to cover the bottom of the face, and the fabric that comes into contact with the chin is a different, softer fabric from the rest of the jacket, guarding your chin and face from the zipper. Over the weekend my wife and I decided to take a quick overnight camping trip in the nearby mountains to test out the jacket. At night, temperatures on top of Jebel Akdhar reached around 8 degrees Celsius with winds around 7 to 10km p/h. In a pair of hiking trousers, boots and short sleeve shirt under the Strata D fleece, I was comfortable sitting outside during the evening. One thing that definitely stood out was the wind resistance of the jacket. I own several other fleece jackets from various companies that are fantastically warm, as long as there is no wind. The following morning, we went for a short hike before the temperature rose too high. Again the jacket was warm; to the point where I started to overheat and had to leave the jacket open. The jacket was certainly breathable but might be better suited for hiking in cooler conditions. Arriving back home, I decided to run a few more tests before making my final decision about the jacket. First the water test, using a spray bottle on the jacket, the droplets rolled off immediately. Even pouring water on the jacket while horizontal, nothing soaked in; the droplets sat on the surface which looked and felt completely dry after removing it with a cloth. Next to test the stain resistance I used ketchup, mustard and soya sauce (because thats what I had in my fridge) and let them soak on the jacket for one hour. I removed the condiments using running water and a damp cloth.Everything came off immediately and after drying there were no residual smells on the jacket. I fin-
ished with the wind test. Mounting the jacket on two of my camera tripods with a high speed fan on one side and some lit candles on the other side (not too close),the candles were not affected by the fan at all. Pass. Over recent years it seems Columbia has been working hard to redefine itself in the outdoor industry, and in my opinion, they have done an excellent job. I am very impressed by both the innovation and the attention to detail put into this jacket. Not only will I be bringing this jacket out on my next big mountain adventure, but, out of curiosity, I may be giving a few of their other products a try as well.
Darryl MacDonald
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PRODUCT REVIEW
ToyoTa Fj Cruiser
When Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributor of Toyota vehicles in the UAE announced the expansion of the Xtreme product range at the 2011 Dubai International Motorshow, Andrew Squires, National Sales and Distribution Manager said in the announcement: The UAE offers some of the best off-road experiences with interesting destinations, sometimes extremely isolated with a challenging terrain. In the Xtreme range we have introduced the necessary modifications to enable advanced off-road drivers to explore the remotest and toughest areas without compromising the exemplary comfort ride those vehicles traditionally offer.
This statement was enough for us to check if the FJ Cruise Xtreme keeps its promises. The FJ Cruiser is definitely a statement, its design is out of the box and opinions differ on whether if its an updated look of the old FJ Cruiser, or a new car setting out new design standards. Being special polarized opinions, some people will love it, while others wont.
XTReme
But there are some points on which we focused that are more objective than the design. The interior of the Xtreme is well organized and easy to use and understand, but surprisingly, the manual model we drove had no electrical and manual adjustments for the mirrors and you had to open the window and adjust the glass with your fingers. This is a small detail, but should not be missed in a new car these days. The overview in the car is something you need to get used to and the view from the rear is also limited. This is criticized in many other reviews but in my opinion, as soon as you are familiar with the car, you will have no issues. Also the
seats, especially for off-road driving, could have a better side support and the steering should be adjustable. The entrance in the back is not easy but this is mainly based on the innovative door which opens like a big gate and/or course the height of the car. And personally, I think the finishing could be a bit better in the interior and that the use of plastic inside the car is just too much. The sound system in the car is great, with huge speakers built in the door. This will entertain you not only on the road, but also on long off-road expeditions. The modifications by Artic Trucs for the Xtreme series include 33-inch wheels to
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provide higher ground clearance and large footprints that result in minimal disturbance when driving in off-road conditions. Taking into consideration the passengers comfort, the front and rear suspension was lifted by 40mm in total with additional trimming to get the necessary wheel space for the larger tires, which improves driving view whether city driving or off-road dune bashing. All of the vehicles are fitted with heavy duty front and rear shock absorbers, and a speciallymade torque wrench. The cars modified by Arctic Trucks have been used on expeditions on the Magnetic North Pole with Top Gear, the South Pole, over the glacier of Greenland and on the Icelandic volcano, Eyjafallajkull. Even with the 40mm lift, the suspension works great on normal road condition with a lot of comfort and good performance in curves. The manual 6 gear transmission of our test car was a real treat for me and the 270HP, 4L engine is fun to drive. The option to drive the car in two wheel drive instead of permanent 4wheel drives is also more fuel efficient even though that its heavily used in the region for burn-outs and doughnuts (with traction control off). The noise of the
big off-road tires while driving on the highway is also on a low level. The most important points for us are the off-road and outdoor use. The trunk of the car is big enough to put a lot of outdoor gear in it, the only down point is that you cant make the back seats evenly flat. The engine and the transmission with different drive options as well as differential lock and traction control are all great features for experienced and inexperienced drivers. The FJ Cruiser Xtreme has 28cm of ground clearance, 34-degree approach and 30-degree departure angles, and a 27.4-degree break-over angle. The FJ is also designed to ford up to 68cm of water and has a 5,000lb towing capacity. Since the car was brand new, we didnt push it to the edge and did just some easy dune drives. To get a better feeling of the cars abilities, we did not even deflate the tires. I usually drive an automatic transmission 4x4 and was positively surprised how direct the feeling of the car and the connection to the ground was. The huge tires are a great support on sand I didnt manage to get even close to getting stuck on the stand. The car went up and down the dunes like
driving on rails. With the traction control off, you can control better RPM and enjoy throwing some sand in the air. Im 100 percent convinced that the car took easily on most of the challenging rock and sand routes in the region. The clearance is great for a car directly from the show room; the bottom especially the engine is covered with a solid metal shield which is very important in bashing over dunes or taking on rocky routes to avoid severe damage. The OutdoorUAE and my personal verdict for the FJ Cruiser Xtreme is that for 163,200 AED, it is one of the best off-road cars with good comfort and urban city drive abilities that you can get in showrooms in the UAE.
Daniel
This test shows only our opinion during the test drive of the model we drove. Your opinion and experience might differ from ours. In any way, we recommend making a test drive with any car you consider to buy, this review should just highlight some points you might want to look at.
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PRODUCT REVIEW
The Camping Freezer
If you are like me, you are desperately waiting for the temperatures to drop and the winter season to really kick off. Im willing to accept any compromise to start the season early.
There are loads of activities you can do by just reducing the time span or shifting the time of day you do them. BBQs and camping unfortunately dont fall into this category of physical challenges, where a little bit more suffering will not matter much and can even increase the challenge and the satisfaction after completion. Camping or BBQs are relaxation and fun, and any effort that is taken is to make it as enjoyable as possible. Especially now, with the temperatures still above the 40C mark, BBQs are possible and if you dont mind sweating, so too is a mountain camp. Whilst camping or barbequing in these temperatures it is important to keep well hydrated. Although its recommended not to drink cold drinks to rehydrate as the body requires more energy to bring the liquids to body temperature, many disregard this medical advice and enjoy cold drinks much more. Enjoying drinking makes it easier to stay hydrated rather than forcing yourself to get more liquids into your body. So my choice
will always be to ensure there are some cold drinks to make the heat bearable and to enjoy the time outside even if its still boiling hot. This leads us to the challenge of how to keep your drinks cold when you are outdoors. We have already dedicated a few articles to this topic but not looked into the use of electrical cooling boxes or transportable fridges. The common way of cooling stuff around here is a big cool box loaded with food and drinks, with the remaining space filled up with ice cubes. To extend the cooling time frozen water bottles are a common and very useful way of not wasting space and generate a good cooling effect. The downside of the whole thing is, after a few hours you will have melted ice water in the bottom of your cool box. This might not be a problem if you only have drinks in the cool box, which is rarely the case for me, but if you also have food in the same cooler, you might face some other problems. If your food is not sealed properly you might end up with a disgusting soup of soaked bread and BBQ flavours from the meat which will not go down well when the time comes to eat. We have often packed the cool box perfectly in layers to avoid this happening until someone took a can from the bottom of the cooler and all the order was gone. So the solution would be an electrical cooling system where no ice is required. To use a system like this there are two main things to consider. Firstly, is the cooling system strong enough for the extreme temperature over here and secondly, how can you ensure a power supply for the cooler? Before I moved here I had often camped in the Mediterranean using either a tent or mobile home. The mobile home had a great
system which could also run on gas which ensured independent cooling for days, but also required a lot of space and to be fixed permanently in the car, so this solution was excluded. While camping with a tent I used a small cool box with a heat changer and a volume of 20 litres. This system worked well in colder areas since the cooling system was only able to cool down about 10C below the outside temperature and was depending on a 12V power supply (or a 220V to 12V converter). This was no problem whilst driving but when camping the small car battery was drained within one night. In the Mediterranean the cooling effect of 15C below outside temperature (25C) created a good temperature in the cool box of about 10C, so this would also not be an adoptable solution for the region with higher temperatures. Since my last trip in Europe was about 10 years ago and with all the recent technical developments, there must be a more ideal answer to the cooling problem. WAECO compressor cooling boxes (fridges) seem to be very promising so we put them up to the test. As the bigger is better principal is embraced and popular in the region, we decided to try one of the big solutions in the CF Series the CF-50. The CF series consists of 6 models with the CF-35 (31l volume), the CF-40 (37l volume), the CF-50 (which we tested with 47l volume)the CF-60 which with its 57l volume the size of a small standard fridge and additionally to the range the, CF-80 & CF-110 The specs of the compressor cooler
Gross capacity: Voltage: Temp.range: Power input: Current consumption: approx. 49 litres (incl. 8 litres for fresh food) 12/24 volts DC 100 - 240 volts AC +10C to -18C approx. 45 watts 0.56 Ah/h at +20C ambient temperature, 0.71 Ah/h at +32C ambient temperature, both at +5C interior temperature Fully hermetic compressor with integrated control electronics, electronic thermostat, low voltage protection / electronic fuse, automatic reverse pole protection. CF special electronics: Intelligent, automatic turbo cooler - 3-stage battery protection, set using the digital display - 4-digit display display readout in Celsius or Fahrenheit - Temperature freely adjustable using the display - Display of current interior temperature - Status and error indication by 2 separate LEDs - memory function saves the last settings pale grey/dark grey approx. 18.0 kg CE, TV/GS, e-certified (Automotive EMC Directive) Removable wire basket, detachable carrying handles CoolFreeze CF 50 CF-050AC
System:
Colour: Weight: Test mark: Supplied with: Item designation: Ref. No.:
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showed potential. The cooler guaranteed to be able to freeze content with a minimum temperature of -18C which is deep freezing. The maximum outside temperature is given at 43C which should also suit our conditions in the shade. The system can directly be run on 220V which is great to initially cool down the contents at home using the house power supply before leaving civilization and switching to 12V. The cooler has an in-build battery guard to avoid you waking up the next day with cold food but no power left in the car battery to start the car, which happened to me once in Europe. This is not a problem on a campsite with other cars but in the remoteness of the regions outdoors you wont want to risk your car not starting. The guard can be set on 3 different levels of load voltage of the battery before switching off. A big advantage here is that the 4x4s usually have bigger dimensioned batteries (given in the ampere hours Ah/h) than a normal car which might be enough to run the cooler for a day; perfect if you do trips where you move to another spot each day which will recharge the battery. We tested a battery (90 Ah/h) in the trunk of the car during the heat of the day with 45C in the car and the
Where to buy :
Jumbo House Showroom-Bur-Dubai, Ace Hardware Outlets, Adventure HQ, Yellow Hat, Lulu Al Barsha, Emax Electronics. Online Products Available at www.blingmytruck.com
WAECO CF 50 set to a temperature of -6C
Space requirement is another consideration. If youve ever been on a long camping trip, especially here, you will know any cooler you take will occupy a lot of your storage space as does the CF-50. As there are compressor and electrical parts in the cooler, the space is not efficiently used as with a normal cool box. The cooling system takes up some space equating to about a 5th of the possible volume (meaning you have 47l instead of possible 59l) with dimensions of length 630mm, width 360mm and height 480mm (you will need to deduct for any cooler electrical and insulation thickness). The weight of the cooler itself is about 18kg. Whilst the big handles are useful to carry the cooler, they do take up additional space and as I wasnt planning on carrying the cooler I took them off to save space.
The freezing test was impressive; a cup of water was completely frozen within 90 minutes (-14C) of starting the cooler with an outside temperature of 32 C (as well as starting temp inside the cooler)and set to -18C. So its not just an empty promise, the cooler really does have enough strength to produce ice cubes. One more thing you might consider is the noise. Compressors are usually noisy (just listen to your fridge in the kitchen) but the WAECO CF-50 is very quite so the silence of the desert will not be disturbed by a buzzing cooler. Our verdict: The CF series of WAECO is a tough friend who can take on the heat of the Middle East and ensure your drinks remain cold and your food fresh. You can even serve some scoops of ice-cream in the middle of the desert if youd like to. By investing in the purchase price of the cooler, you will be a happy owner of a fully autarkic cooling system. Personally I would choose one of the smaller systems like the CF-35 or CF-40 as I do not have a large family to feed at the moment. To keep a big family happy on a long trip, the CF-50 or the CF-60 would be the best choice.
Measuring Battery Voltage
fridge set to 6C interior temperature. (Initial voltage 12,97V, after 1,5hrs 12,92V after 3hrs 12,86V after 8hrs 12,13V). If the cooler switched off the compressor to save the battery, the insulation of the cooling box will do its part so there is no need to worry. With an inside temperature of 4 C and filled with drinks at the same temperate and an outside temperature of 36C the temperature change in 10hrs without opening the cooler is only 13 C (inside temp. after 10hrs 18C) (!!!! Hint: You should not drain you battery too much since it affects the lifetime of the battery set the battery monitor to medium 11,4V or 11,8V high.) If you are planning a long trip you might have a power generator with you so that a 220V power supply is ensured. Im not a fan of power generators while camping because of the noise and prefer other options. The CF 50 requires only 45W making it suitable for solar power. The Goal Zero Extreme Adventure Kit with solar panel, power pack and inverter is one available option on the market and is 100% autarkic and eco friendly, so the price of 4,000 AED is a worthwhile investment.
WAECO CF 50 in the trunk of an Hummer H3
Daniel
OUTDOORUAE
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OUR EXPERTS
venturiek Ch c Ad
ltra runs the Sabah U
writer, runner, blogger & adidas athlete PS. My email address is tori@fitchicksandfastwomen. com for thoughts, ideas, and suggestions or just to say hello!
Tori
The last time I was on Mount Kinabalu in Sabah, Borneo was when I was 11. I wont tell you how long ago that was but long enough! Scaling South Asias highest peak at 13,435ft / 4,095m was a grand adventure embarked on with my dad whilst my mum and little sister chilled by the pool at a nearby resort.
This time on the 15th September I returned to run instead of walk to compete in the Sabah Ultra, an event aptly named The Most Beautiful Thing. My expectations were low after a trying week involving looming deadlines and a con artist posing as a legitimate landlord, I had slept little and had thought about the race even less. On
the eve of the race and continuing until the early hours, the heavens opened like only Asia rain knows how and the winds were ferocious. Combine these with the tin roof of our hotel hut and it sounded like a giant fireworks extravaganza. I feared our little abode would be trashed by sunrise. But by morning, the rains had all but gone. I got up, readied myself, read my affirmations and gathered with the others to wander the kilometre or so to the race start. The route was stunning think villages and fields, rice paddies and cabbage crops, rivers and bridges, red dirt tracks and lush green jungle. The entire course seemed to swing between insanely vertical climbs and technically steep descents, with the mighty Mt Kinabalu summit never far from eyeshot. The weather remained windy but the sun was shining and the temperature a very civilised 30c or so. The course markings were great I only got lost once and the ribbons in the trees, unlike in Nepal, remained on the trees. In Nepal, you can lose sight of the ribbons for ages, until of course, a pile of little girls pass you on their way to school wearing them in their hair! As is always the case with trail run events, within hours of arriving, new friendships were forged and bonds built over chat about past runs, current plans and future hopes. A wonderful characteristic of the trail running community is the complete lack of elitism accomplished runners with extensive achievements under their belt mix perfectly with virgin ultra runners and by looking at them hang out before and after the race, youd often be none the wiser re whos who. I finished the race to a musical serenade from local girls in custom dress. Second female and sixth overall. The best part of course was my little sister being there with open arms. We spent the rest of the day lying in bed, laughing about nonsense and eating treats. Bliss. We all gathered in the evening
for some comical karaoke made all the more entertaining thanks to the local brew to top up our hydration levels. I write this from Singapore having spent a lush afternoon with my big sister, nieces and nephew. I now sit in the airport resting my weary legs whilst awaiting a flight to sunny Sydney. The hard work is done and now I can relax and unwind with some much-anticipated down time. Of course, it would be rude not to find time for a long run or two what with the glorious Blue Mountains on my doorstep and as luck would have it, a dear friend and team member for Hong Kongs OTW 100 in November will touch down in Sydney next week so we shall head into the wilderness and spend a couple of days running, camping, laughing and no doubt getting terribly lost. But back for a moment to the Sabah Ultra this should definitely be one for the bucket list. Sabah is gorgeous and if you can combine this race with a trip to the top of South East Asia, then surely thats time well spent! 2012 will fast close in on us which signals time to plan grand adventures for 2013. I whole-heartedly recommend that Sabah be included in your plans whether it be to run a race, compete in the adventure challenge, try out via ferrata or just hang with the orangutans.
Writer, runner, blogger & adidas athlete.
Love Tori x
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OUTDOORUAE
OUR EXPERTS
then and
then
My fishing didnt start as glamorous as it did for others. A small pond, a ditch and anything that had fish in it was enough to wet a line in. When I first tried saltwater fishing, I was so amazed at how much weight was needed to reach the bottom. The Fishing with Dad made me feel like a kid again and reminded me that fishing doesn't have to be complicated to be fun bait was different; the hand-line I was holding was totally alien from the cane pole Im so accustomed to. This long piece of nylon terminated with a big weight (or so I thought) and it had above it, a few hooks. The very first saltwater fishing trip I experienced was almost a failure; I didnt catch anything, except for one silvery fish, which I thought at that time, was pretty decent; a Sand Whiting. That fish is forever engrained in my mind as not only the fish that saved my first saltwater trip, but also has come to be my most favourite fish to catch. Fishing for Sand Whiting is as simple as it can get and till this day, is Half the world away, Im still at it - fishing for something a bit more challenging, but
my favorite fish to catch loving every bit of it
now
frying pan. (I forgot to mention that these fish are very tasty, even for someone who doesnt eat fish like me, these fish, butterflied and rolled in tempura batter is a treat). The real treat for me in this trip however, was to spend time with Dad. Although we fished only for half a day, it has been such a long time since weve fished together. I used to be his regular fishing buddy in the weekends, after learning a few tricks I started Sometimes the fishing isnt really about the catching to go out on my own and chase after fish I liked catching. Dad has always been consistent in his fishing and is a master at bait fishing, scoring some pretty impressive catches along the way. He is however, most comfortable fishing for pan fish such as these Sand Whiting. He could spend the whole day catching fish for moms dinner. As it always is on our fishing trips, only a few words are exchanged. Before, the conversaThis scene was repeated a few times till we had a kilos of fish in 4 hours of fishing tion was mostly concerned about The Sand Whiting is an eager biter, which how I was doing in school, or what my friends I think is one of the best fish to go after and I are up to, this time though, it was about when youre trying to teach kids how to fishing in the UAE. I shared my experiences fish. Although you are able to catch them with him about fishing in the UAE and how I readily, Ive learned a few things along the cant wait for him to visit so I can show him way that have made fishing for them more the spots I fish and experience the same productive. In my recent trip to the Philipthings I have, both fishing here and abroad pines, I got to fish with my dad and a chance over the years. to catch one of the fish of my childhood. I always say this to my fishing friends, I have Although initially, I was after bigger fish, I mostly of all the toys I want, but almost never succumbed to the temptation and borrowed have anyone to play with. Growing up is provone of his rods. As always, fishing for these ing to be more complicated than I thought it little scrappers is not only very productive, would be. but it was just downright fun! Dad scored the most and before the trip was over, we had a few kilos of fish in the cooler, ready for the
and now
As I am writing this, I cant help but notice all the gear Ive accumulated over the years Ive stayed here. All the toys and gadgets that were previously so hard to get back home. The high-tech rods and reels, braided line and lures that are not only challenging to find, but were too expensive to order from abroad. I have gear I dont even like using; Im just waiting for my fishing buddy to visit so I can have him use them. Coming back to the UAE, I went out on my own and went to fish my new favourite flat, the winds were up and sailing the Hobie Mirage Adventure Island was such a treat. I reached the spot and set up my flyrods to fish for grunter, another favourite fish. The conditions looked good but the winds which made going there an easy task, made conditions for fly fishing a bit more challenging. The water visibility was low but the fish were around. I spent most of the time walking and reflecting on my last trip home. I couldnt wait to show this to dad, he would love this spot. Staring blankly at the scene in front of me, amidst the gawking sounds of flamingos flying by, I saw a tail breaking the surface in a patch behind a rock that shielded the water behind it from wind and current. Tying a new fly to my tippet, I struggled with a cast against the wind and the fly landed where its supposed to. A gentle tug on the line and it came tight. The fish bolted to open water and the fight was on. Growing up isnt that bad after all. Till next tide change,
Kit Belen
thefishingkit@gmail.com
OUTDOORUAE
47
OUR EXPERTS
Neither the author nor OutdoorUAE is taking any reasonability or liability if you follow these instructions and get hurt. If you follow the instructions given, you do it on your own risk!
Words + Photos: John Basson
This article is NOT intended to qualify you for the Red Bull X-Fighters free style championships. It is only to give some BASIC guidelines for those who would like to start jumping some dunes on their Quads or bikes. We have many riders who would like to learn to jump, but are often too scared to even attempt a jump.
If you stick to the basic guidelines and keep things within limits, you should be safe and enjoy many jumps without incident. I will use some photos where I am teaching John-John (aged 9) to illustrate my explanations: You need to know what dune you can and cannot jump. The pros, or riders that race on MX tracks, can just about jump any dune or hill they like. Their ability to control the bike once it is airborne allows them to compensate if the launch was not perfect. For the rest of us, we must look for a dune that will allow for a good smooth launch and landing. Just like I teach a student pilot that he cannot do a good landing from a bad approach, I teach people that we cannot jump any dune if the run-up to the dune was not smooth and steady.
etting G Airborne
extension of the dune. Control your attitude. If the launch was good then controlling the quads attitude is fairly easy. To start with you want to have no acceleration or deceleration as you launch from the dune. You should reach the speed you are happy with (will discuss speed a bit later) before you launch from the dune and then keep that throttle position as you get airborne. If you are accelerating as you leave the dune the quad will have the tendency to increase its nose up attitude. (Pitch back). The opposite if you are decelerating when you leave the crest the quad will pitch nose forward. Again the pros can compensate for this, but these pitching motions (due to
Smooth curved entry to the dune.
get airborne. Also ensure that the dune is long enough so as to ensure that you are stable in the climb before you leave the crest. If the dune is very short and some of your momentum is still in a horizontal direction then control is very difficult once you leave the crest. The more time/distance you spent running up the dune the better. This will ensure that you are steady, your momentum is in an upward direction and in the same direction as the dune. If the run-up and entry to the dune was smooth, and you have stabilized going up the dune then you are bound to have a good jump. You can see from the photo that the launch is perfect and it is just and
You need to look for a dune where the sand does not start at an angle, but rather flow with a curve into the dune. If you approach and suddenly hit the dune rather than there being a natural curve, it puts you off balance and immediately you will feel uncomfortable. Initially only jump dunes that are flat on top. This helps with the landing and they are a lot more comfortable to jump than dunes that slope down during landing. Guys that get a lot of height prefer (must) landing on a down slope, but again that is for guys that really
acceleration or deceleration) are normally dominant and will determine the final results/attitude of how you will land. If you launched with no acceleration then you can, by means of the throttle, control small attitude changes to ensure a good landing. By opening the throttle once in the air, the bike/Quad wants to pitch-up, and by closing the throttle it wants to pitch forward. Body position also assists in controlling the bikes attitude. To far back = nose up and to far forward = nose down. For initial jumping just jump from your normal standing position. You will soon get a feel for what works for you and can then slightly adapt.
48
OUTDOORUAE
Closing the throttle during the launch!!
Tiennie is a tall rider and prefers to jump with his arm extended. This puts him far back and in almost all his jumps his front end is high during the jump and landing. I sit a lot more forward and in general land with the quad in a level attitude. (See the photo with me left and Tiennie right) If you have launched with a neutral body position, and with zero acceleration or deceleration, the quad should follow and curved trajectory and will have the tendency to touch front wheels first. On the initial jumps, where your height was not a lot, this
should be ok and you can start to compensate for this by opening the throttle in the air or slight acceleration during the launch. If you hit the jump a bit fast and close the throttle before you launch, and keep it closed during the jump, you will have excessive nose forward. (Beware, see photo.) There is a lot regarding body position, throttle control and even brake application, but for now, and hopefully the level of jumps you will start with, these are the basics. Also remember that you need to hold the bike with your boots/knees. By clamping onto
Speed. What is the correct speed?? When I see a dune that looks like it could be good for jumping I cross the first time very slow. Often my rear wheels would not even leave the ground. This attempt is only to feel the entry. Then on the second run, if the entry and the slope felt good, my second jumps would be only a couple of feet. Again just to get the feel for the dune. It is only on attempt three or four that I would go for height or distance. The golden rule is repetition!! Do it over and over, starting slow, and only increasing the speed if on several jumps the launch, flight and landings were perfect. Never attempt to jump a dune at an offset angle (only at 90degrees), with a Quad, until your experience level is such that you control the bike with ease once airborne. You will land at an angle and often on one wheel and offset to the direction of travel!! You are bound to roll the quad on landing!! Take it one step at a time and do it to enjoy it, not to show-off. (Ha-ha says the preacher.) Ride Safe and Go for Gold
the frame and tank with your knees and boots you will ensure that you dont end up in a situation where you separate from the bike during the jump.
John Basson
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29/05/2012 11:0
REPORT
Alternative Paddling
With Donna Masing
Words: Donna Masing
Dan at surf Dubai introduced stand up Paddle Boarding to me about 18 months ago. Before then, i only used running as a way to get fit. now, i take to the water nearly every day as suPing, in its various forms, encompasses everything i need to do to stay healthy. its not only fun, but also a great full-body work out.
As my friends will tell you, sticking to the norm just isnt me. So I went looking for some different ways to enjoy my favourite water sport. This is how I came across Board Balance (otherwise known as BoGa). As the name suggests, Board Balance involves performing yoga poses on a board. This challenging exercise requires concentration and exceptional core stability. If youre up early enough, youll catch my friends and I down at Sunset Beach on a flat Friday morning going through our Sun Salutations!
Photos: Clint Davis
Using the SUP as a yoga mat, you must sync your breathing and be totally relaxed in order to stay on top of the water. Standing just forward from the middle of the board, start with mountain pose. Lean back slightly, from here move into a forward bend. With hands flat on the deck move one foot back and push your chest up. Allow your front foot to reach the other and push into downward dog. Stepping the first foot forward, come into proud warrior. Bringing both feet together, sit back into intense pose. Rise up, pushing your pelvis forward to begin again with the opposite leg. Besides Board Balance I cant go past a night paddle. Only for the experienced, paddling at night is the best way to enjoy Dubais coastline. At the right time, you can catch the light shows on both Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab from the water. This is a great alternative during the summer, once the sun has gone down the temperature drops and often theres a breeze coming off the ocean, which can really
How to do Board Balance
cool you down. As it can sometimes be difficult to see where youre going, nights with a or full moon are best. However if its dolphins, stingrays and turtles youre after then first thing in the morning is the way to go. Theres something very special about paddling through a glassy ocean just after sunrise, having dolphins playing around you. Its fantastic to experience the wildlife slowly returning to Dubais waters. I use SUPing for my fitness regime because I can simply adjust my paddling speed to either work on explosive strength, or hit the optimum fat burning zone with an aerobic endurance paddle. My personal favourite endurance route is from Sunset Beach to the edge of Palm Jumeirah and back again. If youre out on a long paddle, always remember to take a camelbak and to protect yourself from the sun. Tell someone on shore where youre going, and how long you will be. Most importantly, keep an eye on the surf report at www.surfingdubai.com so you dont get stuck in bad weather. However you enjoy it, SUPing is a great way to exercise while having fun. So get out there, get wet and have a go trying something new!
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OUTDOORUAE
Uae CyClIng
Photos + Words: Ian Ganderton
is on track
In an exciting development in uae Cycling last month i found myself doing laps of the Zayed Velodrome in sharjah. an open invitation from the uae Cycle Federation to all local cyclists was issued via the various cycling Facebook groups and with much excitement it was an enthusiastic group that gathered. it turned out that several folks had got little done at work that day due to the anticipation and unbelievably some folks already had their track bikes in country. The facility has been on the expat cycling communitys radar but has only been available to nationals recently.
This initial open evening at the Velodrome, the home of the UAE Cycling Federation, signals another change of gear within the governing body and appears to be a continuation in the recent drive of support for the sport here in the region with word of further developments to come. The evening at the Zayed Velodrome came hard on the heels of my recent ecstasy sitting in front of the telly watching Team GBs cycling heros storm to gold after gold in the London Volume-o-drome which just added to my anticipation of doing laps again myself. For those of you who havent experienced track cycling Ill try and explain what it is I find so enjoyable about going round and round in circles. For me I find track cycling to be competitive cycling boiled down to its essential essence. Cosmetically the bikes look like conventional road bikes with drop handle bars but a track bike differs from a normal bike in a number of key ways. Most notable is that there is no freewheel, if the back wheel goes round then the pedals go round. If the pedals stop, the back wheel has to stop, no sitting there spinning along with the freewheel clicking away, feet still. Its a direct connection that saves weight, increases simplicity and reliability. However forget this direct connection at your peril, to stop pedalling while youre going like the clappers can at best feel distinctly uncomfortable or at worst can fling you mercilessly down the track. Along with the fixed hub is the lack of brakes. Speed is controlled only with your legs. Again unneeded mechanics have been removed for the sake of reduced weight plus
steep when you havent been on a track for a while. Once you have got your eye in though and are up to speed steep banking quickly translates to fast banking. There is no slowing down for the corners at the track, power through them and feel the Gs. Once everyone had started to get settled on their bikes lines quickly started to form. I doubt there is much in the world as efficient as a group of cyclists powering round a track, wheel to wheel, in a line, taking turns at the front. The person at the front punches a hole through the air and everyone else slips through with massively reduced effort then at regular intervals (1 lap or less) the front cyclist peels off up the track letting the line pass under them before accelerating back down the banking to join the back of the group and rest before their turn comes up at the front again. Its beautifully simple but requires practice and trust amongst the group. It requires close cycling and an even speed. If wheels overlap a sudden swerve can easily clip a wheel which causes riders to go clattering down like a very fast moving row of dominos. Part of the excitement of riding at the track is this heady mix of speed, efficiency, teamwork, skill and trust. Oh yeah, and of course it just feels FAST!!
increased simplicity and reliability. The Zayed Velodrome has about 30 track bikes available for use on the track. I took my own pedals and shoes plus of course helmet, gloves, shorts and jersey. The track in Sharjah is a 250m lap with steep banking at either end. The banking takes a bit of getting used to and feels very
Interestingly its not just the Velodrome the UAE Cycling Federation has opened the doors to; its membership is now available to UAE residents regardless of nationality. The UCI recognized AED250 membership brings a number of very useful benefits including injury insurance no matter what form of cycling you are participating in, even Unicycling according to Stewart Howison of the Cycle Safe Dubai project and who now sits on the federations board. So this winter is setting up to be another fantastic year for UAE cycling. With support from the UAE Cycling Federation there are a growing number of facilities and groups for cyclists of all abilities. The new Al Quadra bike lane is used a lot by Cycle Safe Dubai on Fridays and Saturdays with groups going out to suit any level of cyclist, the Spinneys Cycle Challenge in December has build up rides going on once a month at the new Meydan Nad Al Sheeba cycle park which is open for all cyclists every day and is floodlit. There is also the Dubai Roadsters rides famously held on a Friday morning starting from the Lime Tree Caf in Jumeirah and now starting to get back into the hills too as the weather cools. With the Velodrome becoming available and the Cycle Federation races due to start its all starting to spin along quite nicely indeed. If youre not already, then now is surely the time to get involved!
Ian Ganderton
OUTDOORUAE
51
PEOPLE
Kieren Taylor
Occupation: Pilot Nationality: Australian
Why did you come to the UAE, and how long have you been living here? I arrived in the UAE Febuary 2010. I had been working as a cloud-seeding pilot in Saudi when the opportunity to fly here came up, I jumped at it because it allowed me to be closer to the ocean and waves, even though the position is based inland in Al Ain. However within six months of moving here I found out that the worlds best surfing wave pool was being built just up the road from my house, I couldnt believe it! Whats your passion and how long have you been in to it? Surfing, in all its forms is my passion. Although after getting on a stand-up board about five years ago, I have been primarily focusing on SUP because of its versatility. I found myself having a lot more fun on the SUP when the waves are smaller and it is great to be able to enjoy flat water from the perspective of standing up. How did you get into it? My father is a friend of Laird Hamilton and when Laird started doing it my dad jumped on a SUP as well and was immediately addicted to it. I was only into short boarding at the time and I thought all long-boarders were kooks so I wouldnt go near a SUP at first. However, after months of watching my dad having more fun than me, I decided to give it a go and I havent looked back since. Why do you enjoy most about the outdoor sport (what makes it enjoyable)? Well in my opinion, the best thing about standup paddeling is the versatility. All you need is a body of water and you can do some form of SUP. I also find that it keeps me fairly healthy and it is an excellent way to interact with nature. I love paddling in the mangroves at high tide and checking out the fish, etc... With the surfing aspect of SUP, I love the long sweeping arcs that you can only do on a wave with a paddle in your hands, and I have a lot more fun during the down time between waves when Im supping because you dont really stop. You are paddling and balancing the whole time. What is your most recent achievement with it (Major competitions won, great feats achieved, etc.) I have had some competitive success with SUP surfing and before moving to the Middle East I had won a couple of large SUP competitions in Australia, but since that time competition has had to take a back seat while I focus on my career, although I did take second in the trials event at a stand-up world tour event in France last year. As far as great feats go, I would say I have the
highest wave count of any landlocked SUP surfer in the world! Of course, thanks to the many hours I have spent surfing at Wadi Adventure. So thats something! Where do you go to practice the sport? In the past twelve months I would say that I have done 95 percent of my SUP surfing at Wadi Adventure. I flat water paddle in Abu Dhabi on occasion but mostly I go to the lake in Al Ain. What would you recommend to our readers if they wanted to start doing it? I would say to go and hire a SUP board. There are places in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi to do so and maybe link up with a group doing a social paddle at Yas Marina or Sunset Beach in Dubai. After that if you decide you enjoy it go and buy one! Its also a great thing to do as a family. So you may have to buy more than one!
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OUTDOORUAE
Karina Bensemann
Occupation:
Surf /SUP Instructor, Fitness Professional and Hydrographic Survey Engineer
Nationality: New Zealander

Why did you come to the UAE, and how long have you been living here? In 2010 I relocated to Dubai, to work as a Base Surveyor in the Oil and Gas Industry. Whats your passion and how long have you been in to it? Following my heart, life is my passion and I feel most alive when Im surfing or amping on some sort of adrenaline rush. I also love to encourage others to push for more fun in their day-to-day lives. How did you get into it? From a youngish age, I would bike about 15km during the school holidays to hang out at the beach, I soon noticed all the surfers, and as a tomboy and go getter, was naturally drawn to the freedom of the sport. A school friend had her boyfriends surfboard, so I borrowed it, jumped off some rocks into the water, just about drowned, and I was hooked! Why do you enjoy most about the outdoor sport (what makes it enjoyable)? Surfing is all about drawing lines on the wave for me, each individual has his or her own style. I love the fact, that the fitter you are the more you can express yourself on the wave. A perfect combination of discipline and freedom. If you keep your body fit, and at its maximum potential, theres nothing to stop you doing what inspires you. Also beach culture stands on its own, everywhere in the world you will find the same positive outlook on life, a drive to enjoy life, work hard, and play hard. What is your most recent achievement with it (Major competitions won, great feats achieved, etc.)? At the beginning of 2012 I entered 2 SUP races, the first one I placed 3rd, and the second one I placed 1st. Where do you go to practice the sport? Sunset Beach, Dubai. Tell us more about what Girls Go Surfing is Girls Go Surfing began last winter, Scott and Dan [from Surf Dubai] asked if Id be interested to teach a girls-only surf group. Its amazing! I love teaching the girls/ladies anything I have to share about the ocean and watersports. Friday mornings, depending on weather, wind and tide, we meet for an hour and enjoy the sun and ocean as a group. Whether it be Stand Up Paddle-boarding, Surfing, Board Balance, Surf fitness, I try to ensure that everybody takes away a little more knowledge and confidence each week. We have the most amazing playground right outside our door. The concept of ladies only is to be comfortable while learning, and not feel intimidated by lack of physical prowess. What would you recommend to our readers if they wanted to start doing it? Starting October we have a wide range of group sessions running each day. Sun Mums, Surf Fit, Girls Go Surfing, Surf Camp are just some of your options, check out our Facebook pages (Surf Dubai, Girls Go Surfing) and website (www.surfingdubai. com).
OUTDOORUAE
53
TIPS + TRICKS
Whether you are a hiker, boater, fisher, camper or just an all-round outdoor enthusiast, we always mention here at OutdoorUAE that gear is paramount. It is important to be prepared no matter what the occasion. And as the winter season is steadily approaching, we can often find ourselves in situations where we may not have enough warm gear or protection from the elements. You wouldnt think this is the case here in the UAE, but as temperatures start to drop, we may often underestimate the cooler months.
We caught up with the team from ZSI Trading LLC (official distributors of Marmot in the Middle East), and also fellow outdoor adventurers, to find out more about what gear to look out for this season and the situations you may need it for. As we all know in parts of the UAE and Oman during the winter months, and even during the summer, it does rain! Frequent rainfall happens all over the Hatta and Oman region throughout the year, and when camping, one must always keep an eye out on the weather. Not just for flash floods, the occasional rainfall, but also during those winter mornings where you wake up drenched in mist and fog which greatly adds to low ground precipitation and moisture in the desert and of which can be cold and get you ill. Finding something to resist the moisture for these occasions proves useful when sleeping. A great example of great moisture and rainwear protection is the PreCip Collection. The Marmot PreCip Jacket is constructed to be light, compressible, technical, waterproof and breathable all in one. Ventilated yet waterproof, it keeps you dry from the inside and on the outside. Considering how much you sweat plays a big part when thinking about buying any waterproof jacket and its important that you dont feel soggy on the inside! Also a great tip for the PreCip Jacket is once youve finished with it, you would be able to stuff it into an empty water flask due to its compressible nature, and it doesnt take up much room.
Another couple of items to look out for in this collection would be the combination- PreCip Pants, with a full zip on the side for quick-on and quick-off; it also acts as ventilation when it gets too hot. Also the Precip Cap, perfect for those hot days, with the DriClime sweatband that keeps you comfortable and is a rugged outdoor cap.
Everyone knows that gear is important, but what is more important is asking yourself what you will be using it for and how you will be using it. Doing your research plays a very important part in buying the right gear. You need to take the time and make sure that the technology each piece of gear has fits the amount of support that you need when going outdoors. Luckily, most outdoor enthusiasts here in the UAE will pick quality over quantity, but as a rule of thumb, you dont want your gear breaking on you in the middle of nowhere, so stay safe and be prepared.
mot For more information about Mar ot. ldwide logon to: www.marm Wor com. For more information on Marmotw. in the Middle East, log on to ww zsicorp.com or contact ZSI Trading LLC on, info@zsicorp.com Images supplied by Marmot
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www.point65.com
Paul Rosenqvist paddling XP18 Spyder , off Sandhamn, Stockholm Archipelago, Sweden
A lean, mean, touring machine
The XP 18 Spyder is identical to the proven, decked XP 18 in all aspects but the cockpit. The XP 18 Spyder enjoys all its characteristics. Its fast and stable while highly maneuvrable. The XP 18 Spyder has exceptional glide, consuming mile after mile with little effort. The combination of both speed and stability makes the XP 18 Spyder truly unique. With its open cockpit, it is one of a kind!
Like Point 65 Kayaks on: facebook.com/Point65Kayaks Like GO Sport on: facebook.com/gosportqatar Watch the film about XP18 on: youtube.com/Point65TV
Magnus de Brito - using highly advanced hydrodynamic design technology, combined with experience and extensive testing has managed to create a unique craft that is faster than most, while comfortably stable even in the roughest conditions.
Point 65 kayaks are available at GO Sport stores in Dubai: The Dubai Mall, Level 2 | Qatar: City Centre Doha, 2nd Floor
TIPS + TRICKS
So you have realized that you want to get into paddling or kayaking and you are looking to buy your first watercraft, but do not know where to start. In this short piece, we will try and give you some thoughts and pose some of the questions that you should consider answering before you start spending. Hopefully, this can provide a starting point for your research and assist you in making the correct choice that will lead to many happy years paddling.
Supplied By: Thea van der Westhuizen
So you think you

to
By: Pete Aldwinckle
paDDle ?
want
Photo: Peter Thompson
Photo: Intikhab Alam
Lets start with a few questions; where do you plan to paddle or kayak? What will the water and weather conditions be? How far do you plan to go, and what will you carry? What is your adventure? Firstly, its good to know that there are two basic kayak designs; sit on where the legs are exposed and sit in where the legs are enclosed in a cockpit. The sit in boats potentially offer more protection from the elements (water and wind) and through better seating and bracing against the kayak body greater control of the boat. While a sit on boat leaves you and your equipment exposed to the elements, potentially less control of the boat, the basic models are easier to get started in. For both designs of kayak, sit in and sit on, the greater the ratio of length to beam (width where you sit) the faster the boat will potentially go but the more unstable it will be; the shape of the hull, the height the boat sits out of the water and position of equipment are also factors in the stability equitation. For sit on tops, the entry level boats are generally made of rota-moulded plastic and come in seating configurations from one to three people. Water that fills the seating area (and it will) self drains out through scupper holes built into the boat. The boat should have recesses for the feet and a moulded or add on seat that allows the body to be braced in the boat. The more secure the position the easier paddling and control will be. Additions such as thigh straps and a skeg will improve performance. When selecting a sit on top boat, look for screwed fittings and avoid rivets as they are points of potential weakness the sea will exert significant forces on your boat. The cleaner the boat is around the seat position, the easier it is to get into it from the water. There are several more specialist variants of basic sit on top, from fishing platforms to hybrid pedalos. The more complex the boat the more there is to go wrong, so it is worth doing extensive research before purchasing a specialist boat and be prepared with a tool kit for running repairs.
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At the top end of sit on tops there are the surf skis, long (up to 6m) sleek and fast with the right person paddling them; the dragsters of the sit on tops. They are not as stable as the entry-level boats and have limited equipment carrying capacity. They are great as part of a fitness programme and with experience can be paddled over long distances.
Photo: Thea van der Westhuizen
Sit in boats have two general sub-categories, touring and whitewater. The single seat touring boats start from around 3.5m in length with a cockpit where the paddler sits and can seal themselves into the boat with a spray deck. Construction materials start with entry -level boats of rota-moulded plastic, then double wall plastic composites, fibreglass and high-end boats of carbon fibre. These materials provide increased boat rigidity with associated speed increases (and costs).
Photo: Peter Thompson
Touring boats will initially feel less stable than an entry level sit on top due to the generally greater curve of the hull. However, with practice, the feeling of stability increases and they can be rolled in the event of a capsize (training recommended). There should be adjustable foot rests and thigh pads allowing the paddlers to lock themselves into the boat. Touring boats will have several sealable hatches for storage of equipment forward and aft of the paddler and may have a day hatch that is accessible from the paddling position. Deck lines allow for the securing of additional equipment and essentials such as a GPS, pump and spare paddle. The advantage of a sit in touring boat over a sit on top is the relatively high load carrying capacity and the distances that can be covered in comfort combined with the potential to journey through more challenging conditions. The choices for whitewater boats are numerous and investigation of Wadi Adventure at Al Ain would be a recommended starting point for investigating the options.
Photo: Ian Ganderton
If you are still in two minds about what to paddle and sit down paddling isnt for you, Outdoor UAE has highlighted some additional stand-up paddling watercrafts for you to have a browse through below:
Still not sure what to paddle?
LEISURE SUP Fly Wood Edition 106

Heavier riders or those who want a board for all conditions will fall in love with this timeless thruster shape. Soft rails up front and sharper edges in the tail give the grip and feel of a smaller board with all the grace and glide of the ancient Hawaiians. Thanks to a flatter nose rocker and more pronounced curve in the tail, you gain easy paddling and turning ability for effortlessly catching rides with more balance and stability.
Photo: Ian Ganderton
INFLATABLE PADDLEBOARD- Naish Mana 100 Air

All-around, wide-style design for learning, recreational paddling and small wave riding. The 100 has substantial width and thickness for paddling comfort and stability. The progressive rocker provides turning performance and maneuverability for the surf. Ideal for riders up to 240lb (109kg)
As well as a boat you are going to need a buoyancy aid (make sure EN certified and designed for kayaking unless you enjoy extensive chaffing under your arms). A paddle, a books worth of questions to answer in selecting paddles but you will get what you pay for. This is your motor so make sure you do not skimp and it is correctly sized and suitable for what you are planning to do; remember that you will be repeatedly lifting and moving the paddle so weight is important. Other equipment considerations are paddle leash, helmet for paddling in the surf or rocky areas, spare paddle for longer journeys, and waterproof bags for equipment, especially mobile phones and cameras. Trying before you buy is always a good option: Noukhada Adventure Company conducts sit on top tours and sit-in sea touring expeditions around Abu Dhabi. Adventure HQ (Times Square Centre Dubai) also has a number of sit on top boats and sit in touring boats for hire.
RACING SUP - Naish Glide 126 GS

Performance flat-water design for downwind ocean runs, recreational racing and fitness training. The 126 has a penetrating V nose and a flat rocker for phenomenal gliding performance. Compared to longer race-oriented boards, the 126 is incredibly fast and easier to maneuver and carry. It has ample thickness and width for stability and early planing on the open ocean. Ideal for riders up to 230 lb (104 kg)
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n Daeser,t the D
Gardener
loves
Fly
the
Kentia Palms
The Kentia Palm is not only elegant but it is majestic with its dark green, slender, smooth trunk and its feather shaped fronds falling in swooping arches.
Kentia palms are perfect Indoor plants as they are durable and will tolerate low light levels, they dont require a lot of watering but do need to stay moist. They do prefer bright, indirect light and will grow best in these conditions. They are normally not bothered by pests and are slow growing so can be looking amazing in the corner of your lounge for many years. Kentia Palms are native to Lord
(Howea forsteriana)
Howe Island (small island off Australia) and is considered vulnerable by the World Conservation Union. Wild seeds are collected and cultivated for export worldwide as an ornamental garden or house plant. The trade in the seeds and seedlings is tightly regulated as germination of Kentia seeds are erractic. They became fashionable in Europe during the 19th and early 20th century not only in homes but in the foyers of Banks, Hotels, Palaces, Opera houses, and Public buildings. Kentia Palms today would still be one of the most popular Indoor plants around the world. Kentia palms are available from the Dubai Garden Centres and the Desert Garden Centre in Khalifa Park, Abu Dhabi.
Light wind? No problem.
The Fly goes in virtually no wind and is incredibly fun to ride. Its exceptionally light weight is primarily the result of removing the center strut. In doing this, the center section of the canopy performs like a spinnaker and generates incredible power in light wind. The Fly uses the Parks proven easy-handling design, which gives it superior turning ability, but it incorporates more overall sweep, which helps the Fly relaunch in marginal wind conditions.
Key Features: Exceptionally lightweight Based on the proven Park platform The power of an 18 with the turning of a 12 Two strut design Amazing low-end Superior water relaunch in light winds Includes 10m extension lines
OCEAN SPORTS FZE +971 (0) 55 935 2735 enquiries@kitesurfsup.com kitesurfsup.com > Facebook.com/NaishKiteboarding
Photo: Mike Duhaime
EVERYTHING YOU CAN DO OUTDOORS IN DUBAI

Attracting thousands of visitors, Dubai International Outdoor Show is a great opportunity to meet new customers, develop relationships, build your brand, sell products and generate sales leads. This exciting three-day event offers a large selection of exhibits, spectacular features and interactive demos. If you are involved with the outdoor industry in the Middle East then you NEED to be a part of the Dubai International Outdoor Show.
Limited spaces available. BOOK YOUR STAND NOW! For sponsorship and exhibitor enquiries contact: Mosaab Abdo - Event Manager - E: m.abdo@turretme.com - M: +971 50 817 9727
Supported by: Ofcial outdoor magazine: Organised by:
Sebs Riding Tips.

With the summer nearing an end, and riding season coming up, it is time to get yourself and your bike prepared and ready to ride enjoyably and safely. Here are some tips from the experienced ATV racer Sebastian Husseini, who has been preparing himself for the UAEs conditions for many years.
Firstly and most obviously, weve got to get the bikes serviced and ready to go. If your bike has been sitting around for the whole summer then you should change the fuel, oil and coolant and ensure that all the rubber hoses are not perished from the heat. Electric start bikes may need to have their battery charged. As well as basic maintenance, having your suspension set up professionally will ensure a comfortable and smooth ride which will be less tiring and
generally more enjoyable, which at the end of the day is all that really matters. As the weather is still quite hot, it is a good idea to get well-ventilated riding gear to keep you as cool as possible, however it should never come at the cost of safety.
High quality, lightweight and ventilated helmets like Shoei, makes for a more comfortable and less fatiguing ride. As well as a good helmet, make sure you invest well in additional safety equipment such as a neck brace, chest protector and boots. Alpinestars is world renowned for its leading technology in motorcycle safety equipment. Finally make sure your body gets the same treatment as your bike. Spend some time in the gym or work on your cardio, as motor-
cycling in the desert is often more physically demanding than people think. You need to eat healthy and at least a few hours before you plan to ride and stick with what you are used to. Start hydrating the day before and keep a camelback topped up while you ride to make sure you always have water available. Be wary of energy drinks that have high sugar contents as they can lead to a sugar crash and cramps, you dont want that in the middle of the desert!
OUTDOORUAE
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Oman escap
LOCATIONS
es

The name Snake Gorge conjures up exciting images in the minds eye,like a scene out of an Indiana Jones or Tomb Raider movie. Aptly named for the winding, slithering path it cuts through the Al Hajar Mountains, this canyon offers several adventures that do not disappoint.
On our most recent trip, my wife, I and a few friends decided to undertake Big Snake Gorge, a three to four hour journey depending of the fitness and experience level of the group. The night before our venture I checked the weather online to ensure there was no chance of rain as flash floods in this canyon have taken many lives over the years and under no circumstance should the canyon be attempted if there is any hint or possibility of rain. In the morning, we departed from Muscat and drove west towards the village ofRustaq, turning off the main highway towards the village of At Tikhah. We continued another 25 minutes down this dirt track until we reached the end of the canyon. Total drive time from Muscat was just over two hours. We left one vehicle at the bottom of the canyon and shuttled everyone to the starting point, which is about a ten minute drive up beyond
In preparation for our trip we packed the following essentials:

Sunscreen Emergency first aid kit Drinking water Camera in a pelican case (or waterproof camera) Dive light Towel Snacks Rope bag containing: 40M half rope 20m full rope 8 locking carabiners Micro pulley Reverso Various slings
Harness
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the tiny village of Az Zammah. From the parking area its about five minutes to the first pool, where the adventure really begins! The first pool is approximately a six meter jump into a deep body of water. Once committed there is no turning back as climbing back up the smooth algae covered rock is near impossible unless you put ropes in place. This was my third time through the canyon and,as always at the first pool, I hesitate. I search the sky for any sign of clouds or rain, peer through the emerald green water below for assurance of its depth, then take a deep breath and step over the edge. Once the first plunge is taken, the journey that follows is one of dramatic and breathtaking scenery. The walls of the canyon reach beyond 80 meters in places and can be so close together in areas that you can touch both sides at the same time. Floods have carved out this canyon for thousands of years and smoothed away the rock walls, exposing all the colors of the layers underneath. We continued to hike, climb, jump and slide our way through the rest of the canyon. We found plenty of places to stop for pictures or to climb back up to jump into one of the pools again or go back down one of the many natural waterslides. We passed small waterfalls, and as we neared the end, we arrived at the cave. Over 30 meters long and residence to a colony of bats,the cave is certainly one of the highlights of the gorge. You must swim the entire distance, and as you enter, you can just make out the light of the exit on the far end. Swimming through, you see the stalactite formations overhead, and if you bring a waterproof light, you can make out the bats sleeping among them. Beyond the cave, there are a few more pools to jump, slide and swim through before the canyon widens into a larger valley near the end. From thereits a short 15 minute hike back to the car that we left at the bottom. Snake Gorge is definitely one of my favorite treks in Oman and can be accomplished by almost anyone if they have an experienced guide. Trips through the canyon can be booked with many of the local guiding companies in Muscat. The best time of year to go is April until November; the gorge is accessible year round but, as most of the hike is in the shade, the temperatures can be quite cool in the winter months requiring a wetsuit to stay warm. If youre looking for something more adventurous,the canyon can be accessed further up where a 40 meter absail is required during a portion of the trek. Along the road in is little snake canyon, which is a shorter route with some pools for swimming and jumping. If you want something totally different, Snake Gorge also has a Via Ferrata offering explorers a place to climb across the cliffs and zip over the canyon with the same spectacular views from a more frightening angle! If you undertake this weekend adventure, dont forget you are hiking through a wadi where the water levels can vary greatly. You need to be prepared to test the water depth before jumping and keep an eye on the weather. Its always more fun when everyone finishes with no broken bones! As we like to say in Canada, get out there, have fun and keep your stick on the ice.
OUTDOORUAE
63
LOCATIONS
oUAE s DIVE SITES G rdon LOCAL
INCHCAPE 2
Words + Photos: Gordon T. Smith
EAST COAST
Following the successful sinking and creation of the artificial reef Inchcape 1 in December 2001, a second boat was offered by the Inchcape team, and after suitable preparation, was sunk in April 2002.
Located fairly near Martini Rock, Inchcape 2 is situated in an upright position approximately 22M of water at N25 20.347 E56 22.827 with access by boat only. This makes the wreck suitable for most divers, however some experience would be useful for novice divers as frequently the surface current can be strong and a swim to the mooring line from the boat can be tiring if other boats are already there. Conditions should be checked first, and in the case of a late arrival it is best to drop off the boat up current and drift to the mooring buoy instead of swimming
Location
Lionfish
against the current. After Hurricane Gono in June 2007, the boat moved and the wheelhouse disappeared. It now lists slightly to port with the deeper seaward side on starboard. It is possible to swim through this wreck by entering through the aft engine room hatches and exiting via the stairs forward, however please do not attempt this unless you have been suitably trained in diving in overhead environments. Additionally the use of standard A-valve first stages is not recommended for penetration dives as they can be dislodged or damaged during penetration by unskilled divers and if no other alternate air source is available, this could lead to a fatality. There is plenty to see on the outside however, a large shoal of resident snapper are always around, as well as some fusiliers which frequently dive into the forward hatches when the Jack or Trevally swoop on them looking for lunch. Descent onto the wreck is via the mooring line. Recently the visibility in the upper layer has been very poor and the wreck is generally not visible until around 10 meters depth. The line is attached to the starboard side ap-
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Seahorse
Chromodoris anulata
proximately about 5 meters from the stern. The length of the wreck is around 21 meters and 5 meters wide and 3 meters deep. It does not take long to swim around it, however take your time as there is plenty to see. Given the depth and that this is a square profile dive, the maximum time on air is going to be limited to around 36 minutes, so watch your time and your air supply. If you dive on Nitrox you will enjoy a 70-minute dive with EAN36 or 60 minutes with EAN32.
This site has a lot to offer for the macro photographer and has attracted a host of smaller groups of fish besides the shoaling fish mentioned earlier. Personally for me this is one of two best dive sites for spotting and photographing nudibranchs on the east coast. Start your dive by dropping off the mooring line to the starboard side to the sand and maintain neutral buoyancy about a meter above and slowly circle around the wreck using a frog kick rather than a flutter in order not to disturb the sand. Check out the sandy area for rays and crocodile fish. On the port side there are a couple of old fishing pots about 3 meters from the wreck, always worth investigating. After your deeper circumnavigation ascend to the deck level and check out the sides of the wreck for nudibranchs, according to Karin of Divers Down, the maximum number of species recorded on one dive was 13, but I am afraid I have only seen a maximum of 6 different species on any one dive. At the stern and around other locations there are many small groups of fish mainly Anthias, Chromis and Damselfishes. Moray eels may be spotted too lurking in the tyres that hang around the side of the wreck or in crevices between what remains of the superstructure. Bring a torch and be amazed at the colours. There are many scorpionfish
Marine Life
Thecacera pacifica
around too, although not as prolific as Martini Rock, so take care if you have to touch the wreck for any reason. On the starboard bow, there is some blue soft coral, occasionally you may see a seahorse hanging in there. Additionally there are a couple of resident Lionfish on the wreck too, again be careful as they have poisonous spines and fear nothing. Check the deck area for small creatures and dont be surprised if an inquisitive filefish swims up to you and looks you in the eye before swimming off. Once you have reached 70 bar pressure you should be back at the mooring line ready to ascend, and remember your safety stop at 5 meters. Should you for some reason fail to find the mooring line, deploy your SMB (you do carry one dont you!) and ascend using it, as there may be other boat traffic on the surface.
Access: Boat Experience Level: Experienced Beginner to Advanced Max Depth: 22M Dive Profile: Square Profile Dive Hazards: Occasionally strong surface currents, and scorpionfish. Other Notes: Do not do a penetration dive unless you and your buddy are trained to do so. Best dived using EAN36.
Gordon T. Smith
OUTDOORUAE
65
DIRECTORY
General sports equipment Megastores
www.wildguanabana.com Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Decathlon, Dubai, Mirdiff City Centre, +97142839392 Go Sport The Dubai Mall, Dubai, +97143253595 Go Sport, IBN Battuta Mall: 04-368 5344, Mall of the Emirates: 04-341 3251, Mirdif City Centre: 04-2843034 InterSport, Dubai, Times Square Centre & Dubai Festival City, +97142066587, www. intersport.ae Sun and Sand, Most Shopping Centres +97143504444, www.sunandsandsports.com Go Sport, IBN Battuta Mall: +97143685344, Mall of the Emirates: +97143413251, Mirdif City Centre: +97142843034 InterSport, Dubai, Times Square Centre & Dubai Festival City, +97142066587, www.intersport.ae Sport in Life, Nad al Hamar Rd., Ras al Khor, Dubai, +97142896001, www.sportsouq.ae Sun and Sand Sports, most shopping centres +97143504444, www.sunandsandsports.com
air
Ballooning Adventures Emirates, Dubai, +97142854949, www.ballooning.ae Jazirah Aviation Club, Ras Al Khaimah, +9716139859, www.jac-uae.net Seawings, Dubai, www.seawings.com Sky Dive Dubai, Dubai, +971501533222, www.skydivedubai.ae
Boating & sailing
adventure tours and desert safaris
MMI Travel, Mezzanine Floor, Dnata Travel Centre, Shk Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 4 4045888, www.mmitravel.ae Alpha Tours, +97142949888, www.alphatoursdubai.com Cyclone Tours & Travels, Abu Dhabi, Khalifa Street, +97126276275, www.cyclonetours.com Dadabhai Travel, Sama Bldg. next to Al Mulla Plaza, Dubai-Sharjah Road, Dubai, +97142209393,www.dadabhaitravel.ae Desert Rangers, +97143572200, Dubai, www.desertrangers.com Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503, Dubai, +971-42959429, www.arabiantours.com Dream Days, +97144329392, www.dreamdays.ae Dream Explorer LLC, Dubai, +971433198801, www.dreamexplorerdubai.com Dubai Relax Travel, Dubai, +97144221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com Element Fitness, Dubai, +971 050 2771 317 www.element-fitness.net Explorer Tours, Umm Ramool, Dubai, +97142861991, www.explorertours.ae, Gulf for Good, Dubai, +97143680222, www.gulf4good.org Gulf Ventures, Dnata Travel Centre +97144045880, www.gulfventures.com Net Group, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +97126794656, www.netgroupauh.com Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +97142628889, www.opdubai.com Rahhalah, Dubai, +97144472166, www.rahhalah.com Relax Tours Travels, Dubai, +97144221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com Wild Guanabana, Dubai, +971 056 7954 954,
Manufacturer Al Fajer Marine, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143235181, www.alfajermarine.com Al Shaali Marine, Ajman, +97167436443, www.alshaalimarine.com Gulf Craft, Ajman, +97167406060, www.gulfcraftinc.com Distributors & Dealers Art Marine, Dubai, +97143388955, www.artmarine.net Azure Marine, Dubai, +97143404343, www.azuremarine.net Leisure Marine Beach Street, Dubai, The Walk JBR, +97144243191 Luxury Sea Boats, Dubai, +971505589319, www.luxuryseaboats.com Macky Marine LLC, Dubai, +971505518317, www.mackymarine.com Nautilus Yachts, Sharjah, +97165576818, www.nautilusyachts.com UAE Boats 4 Sale, Dubai Marina, +97144471501, www.uaeboats4sale.com Western Marine, Marina Yacht Club, Dubai, +97143039744 The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143405152, www.theboathouse.ae Equipment Ali Khalifah Moh Al Fuqaei, Deira, Dubai, +97142263220 Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Blue Waters Marine, +97142232189, Dubai, www.bluewatersmarine.com Extreme Marine, Dubai, + 97143992995, www.extrememarine-me.com Rineh Emirates Trading LLC, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143391512, www.rinehemiratesme.com Repair and maintenance Extreme Marine, Dubai, Dubai Marina, + 97143992995, www.extrememarine-me.com Rineh, Al Quoz, +97143391512, www.rinehemiratesme.com The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143405152, www.theboathouse.ae Cruise Operators 4 Yacht Arabia, Shop No. 5, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, 800 92248, www.4yachtarabia.ae Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi, +97126665491, www.marinaalbateenresort. com Al Marsa Travel & Tourism, Dibba, Musandam, +96826836550, +97165441232 Leisure Marine Beach Street, Dubai, TheWalk JBR, +97144243191 Bateaux Dubai, Dubai Creek opposite the British Embassy, +97143994994 Bristol Middle East, Dubai Marina, +97144309941, www.bristol-middleeast.com Delma Industrial Supply and Marine Services, Al Bateen Jetty, Abu Dhabi, +971 2 6668153, www.delmamarine.net Eden Yachting, Dubai Marina, +971504586171, www.edenyachting.com
Emirates Yachting, Dubai, +97142826683 El Mundo, Dubai, +971505517406, www.elmundodubai.com Four Star Travel and Tourism, Dubai, 04 2737779, www.fourstartravels.net Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Al Aqah Beach, Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah, +97192449888, www.rotana.com Ghantoot Marina & Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971529933153, www.ghantootmarina.com Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai, +971558961276, +971503960202, www.happydaysdubai.com JPS Yachts and Charter, Room 225, Emarat Atrium building, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 4 343 7734, www.jpsyachts. com Khasab Divers, Oman, +97156 7255889, khasab.diver2@gmail.com Khour Shem Tourism, Oman, +96826731919, www.khourshemtours.com LY Catamaran, Dubai, +971505869746, +971566506683, www.lycatamaran.com Marine Concept, Dubai, +971559603030, www.marine-charter-concept.com Nautica1992, Dubai, +971504262415, www.nautica1992.ae Noukhada Adventure Company, Villa 332/7, Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi, +97126503600 , www.noukhada.ae RAK Marine LLC, Ras Al Khaimah City Hilton Marina, +971504912696, +97172066410 Sea Hunters Passenger Yachts & Boats Rental, Dubai Marina, +97142951011 Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971503336046, www.sheesabeach.com Smoke Dragon Of London Yacht, Abu Dhabi International Marine & Sports Club, +9715070 11 958/+971504546617 Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai, +97142573084, www.summertimemarine.com The Club Abu Dhabi, +97126731111 The Yellow Boats LLC, Dubai Marina Walk opposite Spinneys, Intercontinental Hotel Marina, +8008044, www.theyellowboats.com Marinas Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, Abu Dhabi, Breakwater,
+97126815566, www.adimsc.com Abu Dhabi Marina, Abu Dhabi, Tourist Club Area, +97126440300 Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam +971 7 2682333 or +971 50 4873185 www.aljeerport.ae Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman, +968 9423 9777, www.mourjanmarinas.com Dubai Creek Marina, Deira, Dubai, +971 4 380 1234, www.dubaigolf.com Dubai International Marine Sports Club, Dubai Marina, +97143995777, www.dimc.ae Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai, +97143627900, www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com Dubai Maritime City Harbour Marina, Dubai, +97143455545 Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, Dubai, +97143941669, www.dosc.ae Emirates Palace Marina, Abu Dhabi, +97143388955 Festival Marina, Dubai, Festival City, +97144498400, www.igy-festivalmarina.com Festival Marina, Dubai, Festival City, +97142085100, www.mourjanmarinas.com Four Seasons Marina, Doha, Qatar, +974 4494 8899, www.mourjanmarinas.com Fujairah International Marine Club, Fujairah, +9719 222 1166, www.fimc.ae Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Marina, Al Bateen, Intercontinental Hotel, Abu Dhabi, +97126666888,www.intercontinental.com Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Marina, Jebel Ali, Dubai, +971 4 814 5555/5029, www.jebelali-international.com Lusail Marina, Lusail City, Qatar, +974 5584 3282, www.mourjan-lusailmarina.com Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Muscat, Oman, +968 24737286 (ext 215), www.marinaoman. net Pavilion Marina, Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +97144068800 The PearlQatar Marinas, Doha, Qatar, +974 4965801, www.ronauticame.com Umm Al Quwaim Marine Sports Club, Umm Al Quwaim, +9716 766 6644, www.uaqmarineclub.com Dragon Boat Groups Dubai Dawn Patrol Dragon Boating, Dubai +971508795645 (Michael) www.dubaidawnpatrol.org Dubai Diggers, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, pier next to 360, Dubai,
66
OUTDOORUAE
To list your company for free or to advertise, please contact us: 04 4472030 contact@outdooruae.com
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AL YOUSUF MOTORS E-Bike out door ad.ai
GoSport The Dubai Mall Tel: 04-3253595 Fax: 04-3253590 gosport_dubaimall@almana.com
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+971501547175 (Nick Hando), www.dubai-diggers.com UAE Dragon Boat Association, +971507634008 (Jason), www.dubaidragonboat.com
Dubai, +971-42959428, www.arabiatours.com
Caving
Camping & Hiking
Equipment Blingmytruck.com, +971505548255, www. blingmytruck.com Jack Wolfskin Mirdiff City Centre Dubai, (04) 2840228 Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi (02) 4437802 Picnico, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +97143941653 Tresspass The Dubai Mall, 2nd floor above ice rink +971 4 339 8801 Tour Operators Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900, www.adventure.ae Libra, +971559228362, www.libra-uae.com Mountain High Middle East, Dubai, +97143480214, www.mountainhighme.com Sheesa Beach, Musandam, Dibba, +97150336046, www.sheesabeach.com Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503,
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman, +96824543002, www.holiday-in-oman.com Mountain High Middle East, Dubai, +97143480214, www.mountainhighme.com Oman World Tourism, Oman, +96899431333, www.omanworldtourism. com
Climbing
Equipment Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, +97148829361, www.globalclimbing.com Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai, Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +97143466558, www.barracudadubai.com Jack Wolfskin Mirdiff City Centre Dubai, (04) 2840228 Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi (02) 4437802 Services Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900, www.adventure.ae Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi, +97126429995, www.alshaheenme.com Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Dorell Sports Management, Dubai World Trade Centre, +97143065061, www. climbingdubai.com E-Sports UAE, Dubai, +97142824540, www.esportsuae.com The Club, Abu Dhabi, +97126731111, www. the-club.com Information UAE Climbing, +971506456491, www. uaeclimbing.com
Dubai Festival City, +97143369007, www.rage-shop.com Ride Bike Shop, Dubai Mall, Festival City, Oasis Centre, Mirdiff City Centre, +97143750231, www.ridebikeshop.com Sportz Unlimited, Sheikh Zayed Road & Jebel Ali, Dubai, + 97143388644 Tamreen Sports LLC, Khalifa Street, Abu Dhabi +97126222525, www.tamreensports. com Fun Ride Sports, Rm no. 4, Mezzanine flr, C-13 bldg. Khalifa A City, Abu Dhabi, +97125566113,www.funridesports.com Peak Performance, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, Dubai, +97143413056/+97143308023 Wolfis Bike Shop, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143394453, www.wbs.ae Clubs Abu Dhabi Tri Club, www.abudhabitriclub.com Cycle Safe, Dubai Autodrome www.cyclechallenge.ae Dubai Roadsters, www.dubairoadsters.com
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www.element- tness.net
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam, +97172682333, www.aljeerport.ae Al Mahara Dive Center, Downtown Abu Dhabi, +971501118125, www.divemahara.com Al Marsa Musandam, Dibba Harbour, Musandam, Oman, +968 26 836550, www.almarsamusandam. com Arabian Diver, Hilton Marine, Ras Al Khaimah, +97172226628, +971502428128 www.arabiandiver.com Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com Atlantis Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai, The Palm Jumeirah,+97144263000, www.atlantisdivecentre.com Deep Blue Sea Diving, Dubai, International City, +97144308246, www.diveindubai.com Divers Down, Fujairah, Rotana Al Aqah Hotel Resort & Spa, +97192370299, www.diversdown-uae.com Emirates Divers Centre, Abu Dhabi, near Meena Fish Market, +97126432444, www. edc-ad.ae Euro-Divers Oman, Muscat, Oman, +96895035815, www.euro-divers.com
Diving
ADNEC Exhibition Centre Abu Dhabi, P.O. Box 94943

Tel: +971 (0)2 654 5000
Aloft Abu Dhabi
Cycling
www.aloftabudhabi.com
Equipment Cycle Sports, Shop No. 1, Al Waleed Bldg., Al Barsha 1, Dubai, +97143415415, www.cyclesportsuae.com Micahs Bike Shop, Warehouse no.4 6th st. Al Quoz 3, Dubai, +9714 3805228 Probike, Dubai, Al Barsha1, +97143255705, www.probike.ae Rage Shop, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates,
Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai+97142894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Blue Waters Marine, +97142232189, Dubai, www.bluewatersmarine.com Gulf Marine Sports, Abu Dhabi, +97126710017, www.gulfmarinesports.com Premiers for Equipment, Abu Dhabi, Sh. Zayed 1st. Road, +97126665226, www.premiers-uae.com Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +9714 3444468 Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah, +97192388477 www.scuba-2000.com Scuba Dubai, Al Barsha, Al Khail Road, Dubai, +97143414940, info@scubadubai.com Diving Centers 7 Seas Diving Center, Khorfakkan, +97192387400, www.7seasdivers.com Al Boom Diving (equipment), Dubai, Al Wasl Rd, + 97143422993, www.alboomdiving.com
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OUTDOORUAE
Extra Divers Ziggy Bay, Oman, Musandam, +96826735555, www.extradivers.info Free Diving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, www.freedivinguae.com Freestyle Divers, Dubai, Al Wasl & Dibba, Royal Beach Hotel, +97143944275, www.freestyledivers.com Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Al Aqah Beach, Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah, +97192449888, www.rotana.com Global Scuba Dive Center, Civil Aviation Club, Oman, +96899317518, www.global-scuba.com Khasab Divers, Oman, www.khasabdiver.com Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Dibba Road, Fujairah, +97192449000, www.lemeridien-alaqah.com Moonlight Dive Center, Madinat Qaboos, Oman, +968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman, +97150 3289642, www.holiday-in-oman.com Neptune Diving, +97150 4347902, www.neptunedivingcentre.com Nomad Ocean Adventures, www.discovernomad.com, +971508853238, Dibba, Oman Oman Dive Center, Muscat, Oman, +96824284240, www.omadivecenter.com Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai, +97144068828 Scuba Oman, Oman, +96899558488, www.scubaoman.com Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah, +97150 784 0830, www.bsac406.com Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971503336046, www.sheesabeach.com Sky &Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton, Jumeirah Beach Road, +97143999005, www.watersportsdubai.com The Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai, +97144068828 Clubs Atlantis Underwater Photography Club, Dubai, +97144263000 Desert Sports Diving Club, Dubai, www.desertsportsdivingclub.net Emirates Diving Association, Diving Village, Al Shindagha, Dubai, +97143939390, www.emiratesdiving.com Filipino SCUBA Divers Club (FSDC), Dubai, UAE, +971 56 6952421, www. thefilipinoscubadivers.com Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah, +971507840830, www.bsac406.com
www.globalclimbing.com Leisure Marine Beach Hut, Dubai, The Walk JBR, +97144243191 www.leisuremarine-me.com Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre, +971502898713, www.oceanactive.com Operators Al Boom Diving, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Fujeirah, +97143422993 Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +97143459900, www.adventure.ae Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, Al Hamra, Ras Al Khaimah, +97172434540, www.alhamramarina.com Al Mahara Dive Center, Downtown Abu Dhabi, +971501118125, www.divemahara.com Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi, +97126429995, www.alshaheenme.com Al Wasl Charter & Fishing ( Al Wasl Passenger Yachts and Boats Rental LLC), Airport Road, Al Owais Building, Dubai, +97142394761, www.cruiseindubai.com Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort, +971506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com
Soolyman Sports Fishing, Dubai, Umm Suqeim, +971508866227, www.soolymansportsfishing.com Xclusive Yachts, Dubai, Dubai Marina, +97144327233, www.xclusiveyachts.com
General sports equipment Distributors
800 Sport, Al Quoz, Dubai +971 4 346 7751 www.800sport.ae Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE, www.adventurehq.ae Flip Flop Arabia, flipme@flipfloparabia.com, www.flipfloparabia.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai +97148829361, www.globalclimbing.com Goal Zero, +971509128353, www.goalzero.ae Jack Wolfskin Mirdiff City Centre Dubai, (04) 2840228 Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi (02) 4437802 Ocean Sports FZE, +971559352735, www. kitesurfsup.com Sakeen General Trading, +97147094224, www.sakeen.ae Tresspass The Dubai Mall 2nd floor above ice rink +971 4 339 8801
Dubai - Tel: 04 3390621 | Dubai Auto sport 04 3388822 Abu Dhabi - Tel: 02 5588890 | Abu Dhabi - Buteen - 02 6660591 Sharjah - Tel: 06 5388066 | Ajman -Tel: 06 7410004 Al Ain - Tel: 03 7211444 | Fujairah - Tel: 09 2221188 Ras Al Khaimah - Tel: 07 2351592
www.rahalranch.com Riding for the Disabled, Dubai, lessons@ rdad.ae, www.rdad.ae, Sharjah Polo & Equestrian Club, Sharjah, Al Dhaid Road, +97165311155, www.serc.ae
Horse riding
Jet ski
kawasaki@liberty.ae
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai+97142894858, www.alboommarine.com Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha/ Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +9714 3444468 Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort, Abu Dhabi, +971506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com Blue Waters Marine, +97142232189, Dubai, www.bluewatersmarine.com Al Masaood Marine, +97143468000, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, www.masaoodmarine.com Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai, Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +97143466558, www.barracudadubai.com Global Climbing Trading LLC, Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai, +97148829361,
Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971559556209, www.arabiaoutdoors.com Barracuda Diving Centre, Fujairah International Marine Club, +9719222558 Belevari Marine, Abu Dhabi,+97126594144 Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai, +97153244550, www.funbeachsports.com Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai, +971558961276, +971503960202, www.happydaysdubai.com Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi Hotel, Abu Dhabi, +97126811900 Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Dibba Road, Fujairah, +97192449000, www.lemeridien-alaqah.com Nautica1992, Dubai, +971504262415, www.nautica1992.ae Noukhada Adventure Company, Villa 332/7, Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi, +97126503600, www.noukhada.ae Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre, +971502898713, www.oceanactive.com Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam, +971503336046, www.sheesabeach.com Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai, +97142573084, www.summertimemarine. com
Equipment Cavalos Equine Care and Supplies, 16th Street, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi, +9172 2222433, www.cavalosuae.com Emirta Horse Requirement Centre, Dubai, Sheik Zayed Rd, +9714 3437475, www.emirtahorse.com Mirzan Equestrian Equipment, Dubai, +971 4 4472808, www.metdubaihorse.com Equestrian Centres Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Abu Dhabi, +97124455500, www.adec-web.com Al Ahli Riding School, Al Amman Street, Dubai-Sharjah Rd., +97142988408, www.alahliclub.info Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi, +97125568555, www.alforsan.com Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre, Dubai, +971 44274055, equestrian.centre@alsahra.com Dubai Polo Academy, Dubai, +971508879847, www.dubaipoloacademy. com Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai, Arabian Ranches, +97143618111, www.poloclubdubai.com Desert Equestrian Club, Dubai, near Mirdif +971503099770, +971501978888 Desert Palm Riding School, Near Al Awir Road (going to Hatta-Oman), Dubai, +97143238010, www.desertpalm.peraquum. com Emirates Equestrian Centre, Dubai, +971505587656, www.emiratesequestriancentre.com Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club, Abu Dhabi, +97125629050, www.grpc.ae Golden Stables Equestrian Club, Al Khawaneej, Dubai, (Nouri): +971555528182, www.goldenstables.ae Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club, Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Road, Dubai, +97142571256, www.mushrifec.com Qudraland Community, info@qudraland. com, www.qudraland.com Rahal Ranch, Al Wathba Racing Area, Abu Dhabi, +971566127914,
Dealer Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road, 04-3419341, www.libertykawasaki.com Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha/ Rentals Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai, +971 5 3244 550, www.funbeachsports.com The Cove Rotana Resort, Ras Al Khaimah, +9717206000, www.rotana.com Xventures, Dubai, +971555404500, www.xventures.ae
Motocross & aTVs
Dealer Al Badayer Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, +971507842020, www.albadayerrental.com Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, +97143390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha/ KTM, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, exit 42, +9714323151, www.ktm.com Golden Desert Motorcycles Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai, +971551532550, www.goldendesert-dubai.com PolarisUAE (atvs), Ras Al Khor, Nad al Hamar Road, Al Ghandi Complex, +97142896100, www.polarisuae.com Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange4, Sheikh Zayed Road, 04-3419341, www.libertykawasaki.com Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental), Al Quoz, Dubai, +97143470270, www.sandstorm-motorcycles.com Seb Sports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 Dubai, +9714 3393399 www.sebsports.com Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai, 97148321050, www. wildx.ae Equipment Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503, Dubai, +97142959429, www.arabiantours.com
OUTDOORUAE
69
ZSI Trading LLC Exclusive distributor for Marmot

www.zsicorp.com Currently available at Adventure HQ, TimeSquare Centre.
2XWheeler, Motorcity Dubai, +97144548388, www.2xwheeler.com Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental), Al Quoz, Dubai +97143470270, www.sandstormmotorcycles.com SebSports, Dubai, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, +97143393399, www.sebsports.com Wild X, Dubai, Um Al Ramoul Industrial Area, +97142852200, shamal_40x70_R2.pdf 1 12-09-23 9:59 AM www. wildx.ae
Polaris UAE, Al Ghandi Complex, Nad al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor, +97142896100, www.polarisuae.com Tristar Motorcycles, +97143330659, www. tristaruae.com Workshop & Services 2xWheeler Adventures, Dubai, +97144548388 Dune Bike, Dubai, Al Khail Road, +97143272088, www.dunebike.com Duseja Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143476712, www.dusejamoto.com Gecko Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143413550, www.gecko-moto.com Seb Sports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 Dubai, +9714 3393399 www.sebsports.com Clubs Dubai Motocross Club (DMX), Jebel Ali, Dubai, +971 50 6950764 (Tom Wynn) www.dubaimotocross.com
Motorcycling
Motorsports
Distributors & Dealers Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd, www.aym.ae/yamaha/ Duseja Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143476712, www.dusejamoto.com Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange4, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97142822144, www.libertykawasaki.com
Al Ain Raceway International Kart Circuit, Al Ain, +97137686662, www.alainraceway.com Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu Dhabi, +97125568555, www.alforsan.com Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, +97143678700 www.dubaiautodrome.com Emirates Motorplex, Umm Al Quwain, +97167681717 Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, www.yasmarinacircuit.com
off-road
Dealers 4x4 Motors LLC, Shk. Zayed Rd., Dubai, +97143384866, www.4x4motors.com Liberty Automobiles, Dubai, 8005423789, www.libertyautos.com Manufacturer Blingmytruck.com, +971505548255, www. blingmytruck.com LRC Off Road Engineering, Dubai, +971553198526, www.lrcoffroad.com Repair and services Off Road Zone, Dubai, Al Quoz, +97143392449, www.offroad-zone.com Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +97143382744, www.icon-auto.com Saluki Motorsport, Dubai, +971 4 347 6939 www.salukimotorsport.com Equipment Advanced Expedition Vehicles, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +97143307152, www.aev.ae Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +97143382744, www.icon-auto.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai, +97148321050, www.wildx.ae Yellow Hat, Nad Al Hamar, and Times Square Center, Dubai, +97142898060, www.yellowhat.ae Tour Operator Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503, Dubai, +971-42959429, www.arabiantours.com Arabian Adventures, Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +97143034888, www.arabian-adventures.com Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +97142628889, www.opdubai.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Off- Road Club, www.ad4x4.com ME 4X4, www.me4x4.com
+971504559098, www.kitepeople.ae Operator Al Forsan Resort, Abu Dhabi, +97125568555, www.alforsan.com Dubai Kite Surf School, Dubai, Umm Suqeim Beach, +971 504965107, www.dubaikitesurfschool.com Duco Maritime, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi, +971508703427 www.ducomaritime.com Dukite, Kitesurf Beach, Umm Suqeim, Dubai, +971507586992, www.dukite.com Kite Fly, Dubai, +971502547440, www. kitesurf.ae Kitepro Abu Dhabi, Yas Island and Al Dabbayyah, Abu Dhabi, +971505441494, wwww.kitepro.ae Kite4fun.net, Abu Dhabi, +971508133134, www.kite4fun.net Nautica1992, Dubai, +971504262415, www.nautica1992.ae Shamalkitesurfing, Umm Suqueim Beach Dubai, +971507689226, www. shamalkitesurfing.com Sky &Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton, Jumeirah Beach Road, +97143999005, www.watersportsdubai.com Surf School UAE, Umm Suqeim Beach and Building 1, Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai, +971556010997, www.surfschooluae.com Watercooled 04 887 6771 Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates www.watercooleddubai.com Clubs Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle www.abudhabisup.com, abudhabisup@ gmail.com
water Parks
running
Clubs ABRasAC, Dubai, www.abrasac.org Abu Dhabi Tri Club, Abu Dhabi, www. abudhabitriclub.org Mirdiff Milers, Dubai, www.mirdifmilers.info
Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, +97144260000, www.atlantisthepalm.ae Dreamland Aqua Park, Umm Al Quwaim, Emirates Road, +97167681888, www.dreamlanduae.com Wild Wadi, Dubai, +97143484444, www. wildwadi.com
other leisure activities
stand up Paddling, Kite & surfing, wakeboarding
Equipment Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai+97142894858 , www.alboommarine. com Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, +97143468000, www.masaoodmarine.com Leisure Marine Beach Street, Dubai, The Walk JBR, +97144243191 www.leisuremarine-me.com Picnico 04 3941653 Jumeirah Beach Road Opposite Sunset Mall, Dubai Pearl Water Crafts, Dubai Marina Yacht Club, +971553749398, www.pearl-watercrafts.com Surf Dubai, Dubai, Umm Suqeim, +971505043020, www.surfingdubai.com Surf Shop Arabia, Building 1, Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai, +97143791998, www.surfshoparabia.com UAE Kite Surfing, +971505626383, www. ad-kitesurfing.net Distributor Ocean Sports FZE, +971559352735, www.kitesurfsup.com Kitepeople Kite & Surf Store, International City, Dubai,
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi, + 97125588990, www.adgolfclub.com Dolphin Bay Atlantis Dubai, +97144260000, www.atlantisthepalm.ae Dubai Dolphinarium Dubai, Creek Park Gate No. 1, +97143369773, www.dubaidolphinarium.ae Ifly Dubai, Dubai, Mirdiff City Centre, +97142316292, www.iflyme.com Sadiyaat Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, +97125578000, www.sbgolfclub.ae Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Sharjah, +97143999005, www.golfandshootingshj.com SkiDubai, Dubai, Mall of The Emirates, +97144094000, www.skidxb.com Spacewalk Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi, +97124463653, www.spacewalk.ae
Health, safety & Training
Safety Lessons Marine Concept Yacht Charter & Sea School, Rania Business Centre, Dubai, +971559603030, www.marine-charter-concept.com Safety & Leisure Training Middle East, Dusseldorf Business Point, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, +97144502418, www.sltme.com Sport & Health Centres The Physio Center, Suite 405, Building 49, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, +97144370570, www.physiocentre.ae
70
OUTDOORUAE
The Best Feeling on Water
SIT ON TOP SEA KAYAKS

Designed in New Zealand and proudly made in Thailand with 30 years of production experience. Suitable for novices through to experienced paddlers; highly versatile and innovative designs. Ideal for learning to kayak, surfing, fitness, short tours, fishing or just fun on the water.
Available at: Adventure HQ in Times Square Center, Go Sport stores, Al Yousuf Motors (Yamaha) showrooms, Noukhada Adventure Company in Abu Dhabi and Sahara Marine in Abu Dhabi Distributor info@globalclimbing.com

Issue 22 October

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The Paddle Issue

ThE NEW FJ cRUiSER XTREME

THe HiGHesT PoinT

Issue 22, October 2012

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

ThE NEW FJ cRUiSER XTREME

Daniel Birkhofer Founder and Editor in Chief daniel@outdooruae.com

THe HiGHesT PoinT

Issue 22, October 2012

EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS

Kit Belen Our fishing pro

Pete Aldwinckle Climber and all-round adventure seeker

Mike Nott The 4x4 expert

John Basson Moto/ATV and all round adventure seeker

Tori Leckie Writer, runner, blogger, adventurer and adidas athlete

WHEN YOURE DONE READING, PLEASE RECYCLE!

Climbing Expert WANT TO CONTRIBUTE? CONTACT US! contact@outdooruae.com

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

28 Culture of the Paddle

18 Red Bull Cliff Diving World Championship

TRIED AND TE STED !

51 UAE CYCLING IS ON TRACK

10 2012 TRANSANATOLIA RALLY

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Here are The best shots sent in by

Patrice De Wergifosse - Salalah Oman

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

DMX Round 2 & National Championship Round 1

Gulf Bike Week

october 18 to 20, Dubai Festival City, Dubai

Battle of the Paddle 3

october 20, 7:00 a.m.Kitesurfers Beach, umm suqeim 1, Dubai

What other races have you included in Battle of the Paddle?

or email us for an infopack at botp@surfshoparabia.com.

How do our readers get involved?

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

UAE Biathle Challenge 2012

Spinneys Build-Up Ride 3 of 4

Sunset SUP Classic 2012

october 26 to 27, sunset Beach, umm suqeim 3, Dubai

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

singing rock announces recall of Via Ferrata products

Follow the dedicated expedition facebook page: www.facebook/ Mountainhighme.com

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Apex ATV predATor:

The Yamaha raptor 700r

Words + Photos: Wayne Gray

Ilvat Meke Lake: 2 special stages, 140km of timed

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Meke Lake Ilhara Valley Goreme/Cappadocia

Mini desert hIke challenge

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

*1st year insuranCe absolutely

*Get FinanCinG proFit rates

800 LIBERTY kawasaki@liberty.ae

*Terms And Conditions Apply

OCTOBER 2012 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM

Red Bull Cliff Diving

Words + Photos: Darryl MacDonald

2012 Final Standings