27/05/2021
Announcement 📣
Seafarers' registration is open now until Tuesday at 10 pm via the link below :
http://gaff30.uk.tempcloudsite.com/gaffal30/login.php
Please see the video below for how to register 👇👇
https://youtu.be/tn3N8Dd3eFI
**Please upload ID photos & other attachments with a size of no more than 3 MB **
5/30/21
Announcement 📣
Participants registered in the electronic portal from the Emirate of Dubai have been exempted from PCR examination fees at Fishermen Port, Jumeirah 1
📌 Location: https://goo.gl/maps/ezmdepKdUghQRfWw8
Disclaimer 📣
We would like to inform you that the vaccine is not mandatory. Therefore, we would like to emphasize the need to upload the results of the PCR examination for all participants through the electronic portal before Wednesday, at 10 am.
01/06/2021 :
22 May 2021, Dubai : His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, directed to organize the 30th edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race, as continuation of the message and path of the heritage sports founded by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is behind the insightful idea and the development of the Al Gaffal race since 1991, which is held annually for more than three decades now.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum stressed that the Al Gaffal Race depicts a great message to the people of the UAE in expressing their devotion towards the past culture of their forefathers, on how their life was linked to the sea that offered them a safe haven and abundant livelihood.
His Highness, the Crown Prince of Dubai said: “We’re directed to continue the historical saga in fulfillment of the generosity and the efforts of the race founder, the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, in which it will be renewed annually in order to preserved his legacy. He has given a lot of efforts and attention to this event since its inception and developed it by motivating the participants through various initiatives that contributed to the publicity of various race categories, which reflected his passion and beliefs in importance of reviving this heritage.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, directed the organizing committee of the Dubai International Marine Club to work for the success of the upcoming event in partnership with the government departments, national and private institutions, in order to successfully facilitate the task of the participants from the boat owners to the sailors, in overcoming all the difficulties and in observing all the precautionary measures and regulations issued by the health authorities to limit the spread of the Coronavirus - Covid19.
The Dubai International Marine Club approved the period from 3rd to 5th of June 2021 as the date for the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race.
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H.E Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club, expressed his deep gratitude on behalf of the club’s board of directors, all the marine sports affiliates and enthusiasts of the great race, to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, for directing to organize the race in continuation of the great message sent by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who was keen to developed continuously the race for three decades until it became one of the annual festival awaited by all the segments of society in this country.
Bin Meshar added that the organizing committee of the Dubai International Marine Club will work on implementing the directives of His Highness, the Crown Prince of Dubai, in cooperation with the club’s strategic partner to make the event happen on its 30th edition, in conjunction with the activities for the 50th year of the UAE and a few months before the launching of the Dubai Expo 2020 which will bring the world together in the pearl of Gulf, with the same motivation and vision that indicates the interest of the People of the Emirates in reviving the past of their forefathers.
Fingerprints & History
The memory of marine sports preserves many histories of the pioneering stances and initiatives established by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum who has placed a luminous fingerprint in the history of the marine sports, especially in the Al Gaffal race and in traditional racing in various categories.
The late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum established the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race as an implementation of his vision and idea on the 23rd of May 1991 with the participation of 59 boats in 43ft dhow category, that sails from the island of Sir Bu Na’air towards the Dubai coast with a race distance of more than 50 nautical miles.
The Al Gaffal race began when the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum directed the managements of the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) in 1991 to organize this race in line with the directives of the wise leadership on the importance of preserving and reviving the heritage of the marine sports, that linked the lives of the people in the emirates and the neighboring region which embodies thru various races that encourages the present generation to contribute actively to revive this heritage.
Two years after launching the first race they evaluated the experienced of the participants in 43ft dhow boats in terms of its safety and sea worthiness. In the opinion of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum the necessity of building and constructing a dhow that can withstand the waves in the Arabian Gulf and will bring them safely to Dubai shore, in which he proposed a new category the 60ft dhow boats. In the third edition of the Al Gaffal race, we witnessed a joint race between the 60ft and 43ft dhow boats in which it has proven that 60ft dhow boat is more efficient in the race and was officially approved to be used on the fourth edition of the Al Gaffal in 1994.
The interest of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum in marine sports continues and the development of the Al Gaffal Race. He also initiated a new way of honoring the people of the sea by adding a new race category, the 30ft Dubai Traditional Rowing Race in which he announced during the Al-Fahidi Council in 1996. The first race was witnessed in March 1997.
The first season of the 30ft Dubai Traditional Rowing Race achieved a great success beyond its expectation that makes everyone to look forward to the year 1998 and with the interest of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the launching of the most traditional rowing race (Al Maktoum Cup) has been held annually as the final round that represents a great. In the recent season the participation expanded from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries including the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Sultanate of Oman.
In continuation of his initiative, the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum established the 22ft Dhow Sailing Race Category in 1999 which serves as an academy to enhance the skills of the young sailor in preparation for their readiness to join the bigger race categories.
1991
First Race: 23 May 1991
First Edition: 59 boats of 43ft Dhow
The champion: Al Awir (47) Owner’s Name: Mohamed Al Tayer
60
Date: May 1993
First Edition: 16 boats with 60ft Dhow
The champion: Mansour (36) Owner & Skipper’s Name: Rashid Saeed Al Tayer
The Board of Directors of the Dubai International Marine Club announced the formation of the Supreme Organizing Committee for the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which is organized 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 from the period 3rd - 5th of June 2021.
The Supreme Organizing Committee is headed by the Chairman of the Club Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar while the Vice Chairman is Saif Jumah Al Suwaidi with the members Rashid Thani Al Aail from the Club's Board of Director and the Chairman of Sports Committee, Mohammed Harib , the CEO of DIMC and Hazeem Al Gemzi the Director of Sports Department
The organizing committee prepares for the launch of the grand festival immediately after the directives of His Highness, the Crown Prince of Dubai, to organize the race in coordination with the government departments and national institution from the emirates including the responsible authorities for Sir Bu Na'air Island which is the starting point of the race since 1991.
The organizing committee held its first meeting headed by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar in attendance of the members, where he discussed the necessary arrangements for the success of the upcoming event on its 30th edition that coincides with the 50th Year of the UAE and a few months before the launching of Dubai Expo 2020.
The Committee directed the DIMC Team to work in the spirit of one team in order to complete all the task and preparations needed before the start of the countdown for the historic race that will bring together marine sports enthusiast. The said event will be held accordingly to the precautionary measure issued by the Dubai's Supreme Committee of Crisis and Disaster Management and protocol issued by Dubai Sports Council. The participation will only be permitted if the participants have already completed the vaccine (two doses) and in addition to that a PCR Test 48 hours before their departure to Sir Bu Na'air Island from the boat owners, sailors, organizing committee and technical committee.
As per the proposed schedule the of the event, Thursday (third of June) will be the date were all participants arrive to Sir Bu Na'air Island , the starting point of the race . The participants is also expected to complete technical inspection and procedures needed prior to the race day.
It was decided that Friday, the fourth of June, will be the date for the 30th edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race, according to the weather conditions (sea and wind forecast )and in the event that the race cannot be held on that day, the start will be postponed to the next day, corresponding to the fifth of June.
The Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which is sponsored and supported by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, has announced the opening of registration for the boat owners and sailors that will compete for its valuable financial prizes on Friday, 4th June.
The registration procedure for the 30th Al Gaffal Race will be online in compliance with issued protocols regarding the precautionary measure. The cooperation of every participants will contribute to the success of the event.
Hazeem Al Gemzi , member of the Supreme Organizing Committee, said that the registration process will pass through three stages before heading to Sir Bu Nair Island in preparation for the race on Friday, the fourth of June 2021, which has been set as the race day while Saturday will be a reserve date in case the race is postponed.
Al Gemzi called on all the Boat owners and sailors to cooperate with the organizing committee in completing all the procedure and in fulfilling all the condition to participate in the great heritage sports which marks the conclusion of the activities for the marine sports season that carries the legacy of the forefathers of the Emirates whose lives are linked to the sea.
The event's organizing committee continues its effort to make the race a successful one which is held under the support and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, as this year will be the thirtieth edition of the Al Gaffal Race its founding year in 1991, making it an exceptional celebration.
Online Registration Link : http://gaff30.uk.tempcloudsite.com/gaffal30/login.php
The 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which is held under the guidance and patronage 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 next Friday
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.
Starting yesterday (Thursday) evening the registration starts thru the club online portal In which it includes the regulations from the responsible authorities in the emirates and the race instruction for the race prior to announcing the final entry list.
Mohammed Hareb , member of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race and the CEO of the Club praised the remarkable cooperation between the organizing committee , government departments and national institution in order to complete all the necessary requirement and equipment for the Al Gaffal Race.
He pointed out that the organizing committee of the event called on a general meeting with the success partners on Sunday for the arrangement and to check the progress of work in order to implement and set the plan accordingly.
The member of the supreme committee organizing the event praised the distinguished role of the club's teamwork, which began preparing to organize the big race, which will gathered up to 3000 people that will sail on Arabian Gulf in long journey for more than 30 years since its inception at 1991.
Mohammed Hareb said that the success of the upcoming event also depends on the great role played by the owners, captains and sailors themselves in full and complete cooperation with the Supreme Organizing Committee during the various stages of the race and in completing all steps before heading to Sir Bu Nair Island. Prior to the start of the race the Technical Committee will be conducting a safety inspection procedure for all the participants. The race is scheduled on next Friday, 4th of June 2021.
Thursday, 3rd of June: Inspection and Safety Check
Friday, 4th of June: Race Starts
Saturday, 5th of June: Reserved Date
The organizing committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which is held under the patronage and support from His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council and organized by Dubai International Marine Club will be holding today (Sunday) a coordination meeting with the Government Departments and National Institution to discuss preparations for the upcoming race on Friday.
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.
The grand race for the Dubai Traditional Dhow Sailing Race will be held this Friday, from Sir Bu Na'air Island to the depth of the Arabian Gulf towards the finish line on the shores of Dubai, where the ships will sail with a distance of more than 50 nautical miles.
Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar , Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club expressed his deep gratitude in behalf of the Board of Director’s and members of the Club and the organizing committee of the race event to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate of Dubai for directing to organize the race in continuation of the great message sent by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum who was keen to develop and continue the race for three decades, until it becomes one of the annual festival awaited by all segment of the society in the country.
This came during the general meeting held between the Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race and representatives of government departments and national institution that contribute every year to the success of the great event, attended by the members of organizing committee Mohammed Hareb , CEO of DIMC and Hazeem Al Gemzi .
In his welcoming speech, Ahmad Saeed Bin Meshar praised the continuous efforts and hard work of the existing cooperation between the Dubai International Marine Club and the supporting bodies in the success of all the marine sports event including the Al Gaffal Race which has been a date awaited by all members of the society in UAE since its inception in 1991 which has witnessed the birth of the great heritage from the idea of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The head of the organizing committee said that the Dubai International Marine Club will work on implementing the directives of His Highness, the Crown Prince of Dubai, in cooperation with the club’s strategic partner to make the event happen on its 30th edition, in conjunction with the activities for the 50th year of the UAE and a few months before the launching of the Dubai Expo 2020 which will bring the world together in the pearl of Gulf, with the same motivation and vision that indicates the interest of the People of the Emirates in reviving the past of their forefathers in its Pearl Jubilee.
He thanked all the supporting bodies who were keen to attend the general meeting including the General Command of Dubai Police in various department, Sharjah Police, the Vital Facilities and Coastal Protection Authority (Fourth Squadron), Dubai Civil Defense Sharjah Environment Authority and Nature Reserves, and the Dubai Media Corporation (Dubai Sports TV and Sama Dubai),RTA Marine, Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services and VIP Doctor.
Mohammed Harib , CEO of DIMC and member of the organizing committee for the Al Gaffal Race, he thanked all the government department and national institution which showed a quick response to the plans and idea of the organizing committee to organize the big race. He directed its team to cooperate with the organizing committee, wishing them a success in performing their task for the big event.
Hazeem Al Gemzi gave a full explanation of all the steps taken by the committee and the measure they take into account in the current conditions in avoiding the spread of the COVID-19 as he emphasize that all the requirements needed by the participants from the boat owners, seafarers, sailors and the organizing team for the safety and the success of the event.
He confirmed that the timetable will begin to complete with the PCR Test for all the participants and committee on Monday prior to their departure towards the Sir Bu Na’air Island from Wednesday &Thursday to complete the safety inspection procedures prior to the race starts on Friday, while Saturday is a reserved date if the race is not possible on Friday.
He said that the transportation towards the Sir Bu Na’air Island will be thru boats and yachts including the Zabeel for the Technical Committee while it will be accompanied by the Mobile Marine Hospital and the two yachts Dubawi and Quattrola Shadow will joint in addition to the Shindagha which will serve as the transport for the TV Channels and Dubai Media Incorporated.
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.
The Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race, which is being 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, has approved the registration of 106 boats that will sail towards the finish line in the Pearl Jubilee Edition of the race on Friday.
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. The day every year where the organizing committee of the event prepared for the final preparations for the event.
The big race is dedicated to the 60ft Dhow Sailing Race which is organized by the Dubai International Marine Club as it will start from Sir Bu Nair Island at 6:00 AM in the morning this Friday towards the finish line between the Island of Palm Jumeirah and Blue Waters opposite the new cultural landmark (Dubai Eye) where the boat will sail towards a distance of 53 nautical miles passing thru Moon Island which is mandatory transit point to continue on the second stage.
Today, Wednesday, the delegation the Organizing Committee of Al Gaffal Race is heading to Sir Bu Nair Island in order to prepare for the event and start the safety inspection procedures tomorrow, Thursday at the race starting point in the Island which will start on Friday morning.
The organizing committee has completed all arrangements regarding the fleet that will carry the committees working in the race, including the Zabeel, which will serve as the organizing committee, transport and control committee that will reach the starting point today.
The organizing committee of the great race also allocated a floating hospital on board the ship (Al Hail 1), where it allocated nursing rooms and emergency cases, in addition to the specialized medical team in anticipation of any emergency. to 53 nautical miles race.
The convoy ships going to Bu Nair Island includes Al Shindagha that will carry the delegation of the Dubai Media Incorporation, which will broadcast the event live on Dubai Sports Channels and Sama Dubai Channel, it will carry the team and the channel’s equipment for broadcasting the race.
Tomorrow (Thursday), the delegation of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the event, headed by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, Chairman of the Board of Directors, who will arrive at Sir Bu Nair Island in order to find out the latest preparations for the launching of the race on Friday.
The organizing committee of the event, in its meeting yesterday (Tuesday), reassuring all the latest arrangements for the start of the great heritage and the success of the event. The deadline for registration and approval of the final registration is today (Wednesday).
24 Hours left till the launching of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which will be 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, tomorrow Friday.
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. The day every year where the organizing committee of the event prepared for the final preparations for the event.
The race is organized annually by Dubai International Marine Club, as it departs from Sir Bu Nair Island at 6 am tomorrow(Friday) towards the finish line between the Palm Jumeirah Island and Blue Waters opposite of the new cultural landmark (Dubai Eye) wherein the participants will travel in a distance of 53 nautical miles from the starting point passing thru the Moon Island which is a mandatory stop for the first stage(first finish line )from there they will sail towards second stage the finish line.
Today, the convoy of the the Organizing Committee at DIMC will be completed where Ahmad Saeed Bin Meshar , Chairman of DIMC will lead the delegation to oversee the finalization of the race start and check all the necessary arrangement of the sailors and committee before the launching of the big race tomorrow (Friday).
The technical committee in the race is completing today all the steps for inspection and safety check of all the boat and participants to ensure that they met the standards as per the precautionary measures announced for this race.
The delegation of the organizing committee of the race had arrived early yesterday at Sir Bu Nair Island, where the starting point of the race located. The 106 participants will raise their white sails tomorrow (Friday), signify the start of the 30th edition of the Al Gaffal Race which started since 1991.
The organizing committee of the event confirmed that three luxury cars were allocated to the first three place such as the Lexus 2021 LX 570 for the first place, the Nissan Patrol 2021 Titanium LE for the second place, and the Toyota Land Cruiser 2021 for the third place, in addition to the financial prizes that will be presented to the participants according to their ranked.
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 of Dubai, the 30th edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race that will be launched from Sir Bu Nair Island towards the depth of Arabian Gulf to the shores of Dubai.
The great race is a continuation of the message and approach of the founder of the festival, the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum who launched the idea of the race in 1991 and sought to develop and preserve it annually for three decades now.
The Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Race valued the directives, support and patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, to hold the Al Gaffal Race in its 30th edition, such attention represented a great motivation for the success of the great race.
The interest of the racer , sailor and boat owner to participate and attend this great heritage with a participation of 106 boat that will raise their white sails early in the morning to sail safely towards the beaches of Dubai embodying the past culture of pearl diving in the Arabian Gulf which is a source of their abundant livelihood.
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 in the Emirate of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Hatta Cultural and Sports Club, crowned the crew of the Nimran 211 ship to its owner Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and led by skipper Ali Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouqi is the champion of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which was successfully organized by Dubai International Marine Club yesterday.
The organization of the sports event and the establishment of the great marine heritage epic came as a continuation of the message and approach of the founder of the festival, the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum , who launched the idea of the race in 1991 and sought to develop and preserve it annually for three decades now.
Nimran boat no. 211 was crowned as the champion of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race in which for the first time they won the title and achieved to be the 18th boat to be on the record of the Al Gaffal Winners. The boat also achieved the fastest time of arrival to the finish line in Dubai Eye with 53 nautical miles race distance.
In the second place of is the previous title holder the boat no. 96 “Al Shaqi” owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council and skippered by Khalaf Buti Musabeh Al Ghashish with very close distance to Nimra 211 as they crossed the finish line.
Successfully getting the third place is the boat no. 55 Al Tabr owned by Rashid Mohammed Rashid bin Ghadair, and led by the captain, Mohammed Suhail Khalfan Al Muhairi who was also a prominent competitor in the race from the beginning.
The fourth place was taken by the boat no. 120 Zayurikh owned by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, and led by the captain Khalifa Muhair Al Mazrouei up against its competitor boat no. 25 Zilzal owned by Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, skippered by Mohammed Abdullah Al Marzouqi, ranked as the fifth place.
The Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race (Sir Bu Na'air to Dubai Coast) would like to expressed 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 the Emirate of Dubai, for his patronage and support of the Al Gaffal Race on its 30th edition which achieved a great success and expectations.
The boat owners, sailors and racers expressed their deep gratitude to His Highess, the Crown Prince of Dubai for directing to organized the great heritage race as continuation of the message and path of the heritage sports founded by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is behind the insightful idea and the development of the Al Gaffal race since in 1991, which is held annually for more than three decades now.
The Organizing Committee was also keen to thank His Highness Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Hatta Cultural and Sports Club, who attended the big event last Friday to crowned the champion of the 30th Al Gaffal Race, the boat no. 211 “Nimran” owned by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and led by Ali Abdulla Juma Al Marzouqi followed by boat no. 96 Al Shaqi on the second place, boat no. 55 Al Tabr on third place, boat no. 120 Zayurikh on fourth and Zilzal boat no. 120 at fifth place. In addition to that the top 3 winners receive the car keys and the top 5 boat to cross the moon island received their commemorative shield.
The organizing committee of the event congratulated the participants, owners, racers and sailors for the great efforts before and during the race in their cooperation to follow all the instruction made by the organization pertaining to adhering the precautionary measure and all the regulation for the events.
The organizing committee is headed by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar , Chairman of DIMC with the Vice Chairman Saif Juma Al Suwaidi with the membership of Rashid Thani Al Ail DIMC Board Member, Mohammed Harib CEO of DIMC and Hazeem Al Gemzi , the Director of Sports Department at DIMC praised the effort s and cooperation of the club’s partners from the government department and national institution that worked with the organizing committee for the success of the event.
The big event took nearly two weeks of preparation from the organizing committee with the great efforts and support from the General Command of Dubai Police in its various department such as the Vital Facility and Coast Protection Authority, the Dubai Media Incorporation, Dubai Maritime City Authority, Dubai Municipality, RTA, Sharjah Police, Sharjah Environment and Nature Reserve Authority, Dubai Ambulance, VIP Doctor, DHA and Dubai Harbour , the new tourist port destination.
Happiness
The owners, sailors and racer participated in the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race expressed their great happiness with the generous support and continuous follow up from His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai, for his kindness to sponsor the event and his directives to continue the message of the late Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who founded the race in 1991.
After the end of the great race everyone expressed their happiness in completing the 30th Al Gaffal and celebrated the heritage that everyone awaits. The race embodies the past culture of their forefathers in pearl diving and the sea that provided them an abundant livelihood.
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Mohammed Suhail Khalfan Al Muhairi, the skipper of the boat no. 55 Al Tabr owned by Rashid Mohd. Rashid Bin Ghadir thanked the wise leadership and continuous support for the traditional dhow sailing race as well as to the organizing committee of the Dubai International Marine Club for the success of the event.
He also congratulated all the participants from the owners to the sailors of first place winner and expressing the happiness that everyone felt to be part of the race. He extend his thanks and appreciation to the owner of the boat no. 55 Al Tabr , by Rashid Mohd. Rashid Bin Ghadir for his support and as well as for the effort of the crew to overcome all difficulties win the third place at the race.
Ain Dubai “Dubai Eye”
The 30th Al Gaffal Race set a new record at the arrival time of the boat no. 211 Nimaran owned by Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, led by the captain Ali Abdullah Juma Al Marzouqi who arrived at the finish line in 4 hours and 58 minutes from SirBu Nair Island to Dubai Eye which is 53 nautical miles.
Moon Island
At the first stage of the race is the mandatory crossing point at the Moon Island which the boat no. 199 Hasheem owned by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and led by the captain Hassan Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouqi reached it at 2 hours and four minutes with a distance of 26 nautical miles from Sir Bu Na’air Island.
Speed
The speed of the participating boat in the 30th Al Gaffal varied in all stages due to the continuous change in speed and direction of the wind as well as the wave in depth of the sea reaching as it lowest up to 7km per hour and 13.4 km at some point.
Message
The Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race , the Dubai International Marine Club was keen to send a congratulations message via SMS to all the boat owners and sailors for the success of the great event and in celebration of the heritage, witnessed as they reached the finish line.
Mohammed Harib : Premium Version
Mohammed Harib , CEO of DIMC and member of the Supreme Organizing Committee for the 30th Al Gaffal Race said that the current version of the race was indeed an exceptional one at any circumstances.
He added that the race witnessed new record of reaching the fastest time of arrival in the finish line of the boat no. 211 Nimran in just four hours and 8 minutes which reflects the continuous development of the race and influence to the new generation of the vision and thought of being a rational leaders, that contribute greatly in supporting the heritage
Harib said “No words can explain how much happiness that everyone felt during the event whether it might be the participants or the committee’s. As the boat reached the finish line that signifies the light in all the challenges and difficulty they overcome during the race. Thanks to the encouragement of the official and the adherence of all the participants to the precautionary measure implemented for their safety. No cases were recorded during the race and most of the participants have obtained the vaccine and the mandatory PCR Test prior the race.
The 30th edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which was held last Friday, 4th of June, under the directives and support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council in Dubai received an international media coverage thru video clips and photos that shows a great heritage celebration of the Emirati's past culture.
The organization of this great event comes as continuation of the message and path of the heritage sports founded by the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is behind the insightful idea and the development of the Al Gaffal race since in 1991, which is held annually for more than three decades now.
The race was organized by Dubai International Marine Club for the 60ft Dhow Sailing Category in which successfully gathered around 106 participation that safely sail last Friday morning from Sir Bu Na'air Island to the depth of the Arabian Gulf crossing thru the Moon Island then towards the finish line at the new cultural landmark the (Dubai Eye) for a race distance of 53 nautical miles.
The Dhow boats sails early morning last Friday which was accompanied by the lenses and cameras of international press and media agency which is always keen to cover the great race including the AFP (Agence France-Presse), EPA (European Pressphoto Agency) and the Reuters International where they broadcasted videos and photos that were transmitted by the media thru various content all throughout the world which reflected the global value of the race. The picturesque beauty of Dubai was shown in the creative shot alongside with the race as it reach the shore of Dubai in one of its famous landmarks and tourist destination near the island of Palm Jumeirah and Blue Waters in front of (Dubai Eye) - The world's tallest height wheel)
Various international newspapers have published the race on their official website and paper copies including the Telegraph, Strait Times which covers the photo taken by Karim Sahib from AFP. Also in the Spanish sports news paper in AS and El Pais in Madrid. The Italian website Affari Ittaliani , the Argentina newspaper Clarin Fotogalerias and the South African Website Citizen.
Another photos from EPA taken by Ali Haider have been published also world wide in their official EPA instagram account , The Washington Post, the Daily Maverick that chooses two best photo from his picture that week.
Video
The video clip that was publsihed by AFP and filmed by Momen Al Khatib attracted the attentions of international media where int was shown in Euro News, One WEK TV, Yahoo SPorts , Yahoo UK (Britain), MSN, GA Britain , Japan One TV, Bursomara, Yahoo News, 20 Minutes TV , Orange Acto (France) , WeK News, Arab News and YG News Yahoo.
Thanks
The Organizing Committete of the 30th Al Gaffal Race would like to express its appreciation and thanks to all the media organization that was keen to be part of the race and broadcasted the event worldwide that adds up in the exceptional success of the 30th version of the race.
The committee also would like to praised the follow up and great support provided by the Dubai Media Incorporation as the distinguished media partners in the great event accompanied by the various TV Channels and Radio station such as SAMA Dubai, Dubai Sports TV, Noor Dubai TV.
The Abu Dhabi Media Corporation which broadcasted also the race live via Yas Sports TV , Al Dhafra TV and Al Oula Radio of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, which accompanied the race with special coverage through programs and direct broadcasts on social media.
The event's organizing committee would like to thanked all the media institutions in the country for their great interest in the event and following up on the news, which reflects the race in the hearts of the people of the Emirates.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, congratulated the Board of Directors of the Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) on the successful organisation of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race (Al Gaffal 60 ft Traditional Dhow Sailing Race). Held under the patronage of His Highness in early June, the event saw the participation of 106 dhows.
His Highness expressed his appreciation for the efforts of the Club, its board of directors, and those who were involved in the organisation of this year’s race. The event, which continues the legacy of its founder the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is part of efforts to preserve and celebrate the cultural and social heritage of the UAE.
Sheikh Hamdan’s remarks came during a meeting with members of the Board of Dubai International Marine Club. His Highness said that Dubai is committed to promoting traditional sports by encouraging the younger generation to practice them.
The meeting was also attended by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and HH Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council.
Sheikh Hamdan directed the Board of Directors to uphold the vision of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and generate innovative ideas to further enhance the event as part of the UAE’s preparations for the next 50 years. His Highness urged the Board to further develop the event in line with both Dubai Government’s plans and the guidelines of the Dubai Sports Council so that it can contribute to consolidating Dubai’s status as a global sporting hub in addition to celebrating the emirate’s cultural identity.
The Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar expressed his gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for the support he has extended to Dubai’s sports sector, in particular its marine and heritage sports. His Highness’s guidance was instrumental to the success of the 30th edition of the Al Gaffal Long Distance Race, he noted.
The Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club also extended his gratitude to HH Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council, for his continuous support and guidance, which contributed to the success of the event.
The Higher Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race which was held last 4th of June 2021 from Sir Bu Nair Island to Dubai Coast under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council in the Emirate, presented an honorary shield to the sons of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum , who is the founder of the Al Gaffal race way back in 1991.
Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Al Nasr Sports and Cultural Club, and Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Hatta Sports and Cultural Club, received at Zabeel Palace yesterday the honorary shield from the delegation of the Higher Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Race headed by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Dubai International Marine Club.
The meeting was also attended by Saif Juma Al Suwaidi the Vice Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee of the Race and DIMC with the members Rashid Thani Al Aail the DIMC Board Member and Chairman of the Sports Committee, Mohammed Hareb the CEO at DIMC, and Hazeem Al Gemzi, the Director of Sports Department.
The delegation of the Higher Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Long Distance Race for 60ft Dhow Sailing Race was congratulated by Sheikh Rashid bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Saeed bin Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum for the success of the event and praising the great numbers participants up to 106 boats that sails towards Arabian Gulf.
The heads of the Al-Nasr and Hatta clubs congratulated all the owners and sailors for successfully participated in the race and reaching the finish line safely, and to all the winners and the champion of the 30th edition of the race which is the boat no. 211 Nimran owned by Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan and led by the captain Ali Abdullah Juma Al Marzouqi.
Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Race would like to express his gratitude and appreciations to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council in the Emirate, for his directives and follow-up for the success of the great race in continuing the legacy of the late Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with the great support by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council.
Dubai Police discussed with the Higher Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Race (60ft Dhow Sailing Race) the ways to cooperate in the field of watersports to ensure the safety of participants in various events and activities.
The two sides discuss on the plans & programs for the upcoming DIMC Watersports Season 2021-2022, which the club is looking forward to implement in conjunction with the Dubai EXPO 2020 and the fiftieth year of the UAE.
This came after Major General Pilot Ahmed Mohammed bin Thani, the Acting Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police, received at the Dubai Police Officers Club the delegation of the Higher Organizing Committee of the 30th Al Gaffal Race (60ft Dhow Sailing), headed by Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, the Chairman of the Dubai International Marine Club.
The Acting Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police received an honorary shield from the Higher Organizing Committee of the Al Gaffal Race in appreciation for the efforts and continuous cooperation between the General Command of Dubai Police and its various administration, which contributed a lot to the success of the race that was held under the sponsorship of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of the Emirate, wherein this year the prestigious race celebrated its 30th edition since its founding year in 1991.
The meeting was attended by Brigadier Rashid Khalifa bin Darwish, the Director of the General Department of Security of Organizations, Facilities and Emergency, Colonel Pilot Ali Al Muhairi, the Director of the Air Wing Center, and Colonel Dr. Hassan Suhail Al Suwaidi, the Director of the Ports Police Station.
The Acting Commander-in-Chief of Dubai Police praised the efforts of the Dubai International Marine Club’s board of director in preserving the UAE’s cultural heritage & reviving the legacy of ancestors by organizing various traditional races all throughout the watersports season.
His Excellency Ahmad Saeed bin Meshar, the Chairman of DIMC and Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee for the 30th Al Gaffal Race would like to express his gratitude towards the General Command of Dubai Police for their continuous support and efforts that makes a remarkable impact on the success of the event despite the circumstances that the world is going through.
