The 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which is held under the patronage and support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council and organized by the Dubai International Marine Club that will conclude on Friday from Sir Bu Na’air Island to the beaches of the Dubai. The finish line is set to be near the Dubai Waterfront in a new cultural landmark the “Dubai Eye” where we will witness the 60ft Dhow Sailing Boat participant.
The upcoming edition of the Al Gaffal Race which was established in 1991 with an idea from the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum that carries a celebration of its 30th year (Pearl Jubilee), a three decade of great race and heritage that people waits every year.
It is expected that the big race will start early morning on Friday from Sir Bu Na’air Island towards the crossing point in Moon Island while the ships will head in the second stage of the race towards the finish line in the new landmark (Dubai Eye) near the waterfront of Palm Jumeirah , Palm Jebel Ali and the new tourist port destination the Dubai Harbour.
The organizing committee provided all the details in regards to the race distance which will be around 53 nautical miles. In the first stage (first finish line) from Sir Bu Na’air Island to Moon Island is 26 nautical miles while from the second stage from Moon Island towards the finish line in Dubai Eye will be around 27 nautical miles.
The Supreme Organizing Committee approved the full schedule of the event which begins next Thursday with the usual safety inspection procedures on the participating boat and sailors.
On Friday early morning the date set for the conclusion of the Al Gaffal Race from Sir Bu Na’air Island to towards the Moon Island then towards the finish line. Saturday is set to be a reserve date for the race in case it will not be done on the scheduled date due to weather conditions and sea forecast in the Arabian Gulf.
