The organizing committee of the 32nd Al Gaffal Dhow Sailing Race 60ft extends its thanks and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, for his continuous support and sponsorship of the race, which demonstrates his great interest in the success of the thirty-second edition of this significant sporting event.
The Higher Organizing Committee expresses gratitude to Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of Al-Nasr Cultural and Sports Club, for his gracious presence at the awarding ceremony honoring the champions of the 32nd edition. The committee appreciates his support in ensuring the success of all the activities organized by the club throughout the season, including the Al Gaffal Race, which takes place annually from Sir Bu Nair Island and concludes at the shores of Dubai, serving as the culmination of the club's sports season.
The Higher Committee convened a special meeting after the race, which was chaired by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Dubai International Marine Club. Saif Juma Al Suwaidi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and Committee, along with board members Rashed Thani Al-Aail and Ali Saeed Bin Thalith, were present. Also in attendance were Mohammed Harib, CEO of DIMC, and Mohammed Al Sadi. The meeting involved the review of the race report by the committee overseeing the race, as well as the reports from the financial, technical, and media assistance committees.
In the meeting, the Committee addressed the challenges and difficulties faced by the various committees, with the objective of formulating future strategies to overcome these obstacles. The committee praised the outstanding cooperation and remarkable level of coordination observed throughout this edition, as well as the team's demonstrated expertise in effectively utilizing the available resources to ensure the event's success. This was evident through the implementation of a well-prepared action plan that guided the participants in every step, notably the consensual decision to adjust the race date.
Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Dubai International Marine Club and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for the 32nd edition of the Al Gaffal Race, expresses his heartfelt gratitude to all those who stood and contributed to the success of the race. The 32nd edition of the Al Gaffal Race achieved great success through the collective efforts and cooperation of everyone involved. This remarkable achievement adds another significant chapter to the rich history of the Al Gaffal Race, which began in 1991 and was inaugurated by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Bin Meshar further adds, "Our gratitude extends to our vast community and the marine sports family, who have expressed their appreciation for the support of the wise leadership in preserving this heritage. Their active participation reflects their deep connection to the traditions of their ancestors, and it strengthens the special place of the race in the hearts of the people of the Emirates. This edition of the race was exceptional, with all dhow boats safely reaching the finish line and setting a new record time of 04.45.10 hours."
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Dubai International Marine Club expresses appreciation for the role played by government departments and national institutions in the success of the event. These partners include the General Command of Dubai Police, Dubai Media Incorporation, Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority (Fourth Squadron Command), the General Command of Sharjah Police, General Administration of Civil Defense in Dubai, the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services, and other contributing entities.
Bin Meshar emphasizes that the Higher Organizing Committee of the 32nd Al Gaffal Race is committed to continuing its meetings after the conclusion of the race. This aim to learn valuable lessons and identify recommendations to be implemented in the next edition of the race, scheduled for the year 2024, ensuring that the race's successes will continue to grow with each passing year.
