#60 September 2015

PIMP YOUR RIDE!
How to build the perfect 4x4
Arabian Dive
Essentials
Ride Em Cowboy!
The Calgary Stampede
Plenty of
PRODUCTS
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Price
10.00 AED
10.00 QAR
1.00 OMR
Splashdown:
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In Session:
GOPRO HERO4
SESSION REVIEW
Vol. 5, No. 9
September 2015
www.OutdoorUAE.com
MIDDLE EASTS OUTDOOR, ADVENTURE, TRAVEL & LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
SEPTEMBER 2015 - WWW.OUTDOORUAE.COM
OutdoorUAE Team
It is always hard to judge and anticipate what our diverse group of readers
would enjoy reading and what they would
not. Preferences and opinions vary a lot.
We usually try to focus on subjects that
appeal to a wide target group and generally with OutdoorUAE we are lucky that
the shared love for the outdoors is the
connection between the ocean of readers
and followers we have.
Since concerned feedback or even complaints
are very rare, we usually choose wisely. However, it is inevitable that sometimes we decide
to publish content that might separate and even
polarize our readers, which we only find out after
publishing. We want to unite and not divide our
readers.
That said, myself personally
and the whole team of OutdoorUAE wants to apologize if
readers felt disturbed by three
photos with hunting trophies
that we published last month.
We never meant to concern
readers with these images.
Daniel Birkhofer
Founder and General Manager
daniel@outdooruae.com
Given the recent rage in the media about hunting

in Africa, we put unintentional fuel into a wildfire
and received a lot of feedback.
It took us a long time to decide how to reply to
all the feedback, since it became very clear that
opinions on that subject are so far apart with in
our readership, that we would never resolve it
and ultimately would alienate some of our readers
that would be the last thing we want,especially
since the inclusion of the photos were a rare and
most likely unique occurrence. OutdoorUAE is not
about hunting (except fishing which has been a
part of OutdoorUAE since the first issue). We are
also against trophy hunting or hunting endangered species, but we dont see hunting in general as a bad thing if done correctly. With this in
mind, the content of the magazine will be true to
all previous issues and we will now be even more
careful to not publish controversial photos.
I want to thank all of the concerned readers
who contacted us in that regard. The magazine
is for you and your opinions are important. We
will always reply to your emails and are available
to discuss concerns on the phone. Only if you
share your opinion can we take action. We are
certainly not able to make everyone happy but we
can avoid upsetting readers, so we will take the
greatest care in future to avoid making readers
uncomfortable with ourcontent, even if others
would like it. Thank you for your understanding
and we hope that you will enjoy reading this issue
of OutdoorUAE.
Editor
For editorial content and press releases
Tel: 04-447 2030
Mobile: 055 5760322
editor@outdooruae.com
Distributor
Tawzea, Abu Dhabi Media
Company
P.O. Box 40401,
Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
Sales & Marketing (advertisement enquiries)

Tel: 04-447 2030
Mobile: 055 9398915
linda@outdooruae.com
Printed at
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P.O. Box 6519, Dubai, UAE
Published by
Outdoor UAE FZE
In cooperation with A2Z EVENTS
P.O. Box 215062
Dubai, U.A.E.
Tel. 04-447 2030
contact@outdooruae.com
www.outdooruae.com
2015 Outdoor UAE FZE

Vol. 5, No. 9, September 2015
www.OutdoorUAE.com
Facebook.com/OutdoorUAE
The information contained is for general use only.

We have made every attempt to ensure that the information contained in this magazine has been
obtained from reliable sources. The publisher is not responsible for any errors. All information in
this magazine is provided without a full guarantee of completeness, accuracy and chronology. In
no event will the publisher and/or any of our affiliates be held responsible for decisions made or
action taken in reliance on the information in this magazine.
Get to us on Facebook!
2015 Outdoor UAE FZE

Reg. at Creative City Fujairah
P.O. Box 4422, Fujairah, U.A.E.
Eulogy van Dyk

Editor Qatar
eulogy@outdooruae.com
Keith Perea
Junior Editor & Social Media
keith@outdooruae.com
Linda Turcerova
Sales and Marketing
linda@outdooruae.com
Jung Francisco
Designer and Photographer
jung@outdooruae.com
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Administration
kathy@outdooruae.com
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Circulation
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EXPERTS & CONTRIBUTORS

Ian Ganderton
Kayaker, climber,
mountainbiker and snowboarder.
Enthusiastic jack of all trades,
master of none
Marina Bruce
The Desert Diva and
off-road expert
Kit Belen
Our fishing pro
Twitter.com/OutdoorUAE
Instagram.com/OutdoorUAE
All contents are copyrighted and may not be

reproduced in any form without prior written
permission.
Rachael Bruford
Travel Editor
Nico de Corato
Diver and heli rescue swimmer
with Bergamo Scuba Angels
Dan Wright
Freelance wilderness guide in the UAE
Jake Lyle
Diving and Watersport Expert
WHEN YOURE
DONE READING,
PLEASE RECYCLE!
Helle Bachofen Von Echt

Elite Women Cyclist
OUTDOORUAE
CONTENTS
12 SOUTH DOWNS 100
14 THE REBREATHER CALLED IT
24 THE CALGARY STAMPEDE
EVERY ISSUE
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
06 EVENTS CALENDAR
08 BEST SHOTS
10 OFF-ROADERS CORNER: ALMOST4X4
42 PRODUCTS
70 DIRECTORY
18 ROCTRIP - GEYIKBAYIRI
24 THE CALGARY STAMPEDE
26 THE HONEY BADGER DIARIES
28 ELBRUS: LESSONS FROM MARY POPPINS
AND MOTHER NATURE
32 TEST YOUR MIGHT: TROUT ON FLY
EVENT & ACTIVITY REPORTS
LIFESTYLE
12 SOUTH DOWNS 100

14 THE REBREATHER CALLED IT
16 CUSTOM SURFBOARDS
36 NATURAL HISTORY
38 ETHICS OF HUNTING
39 HABITUALLY HEALTHY
OUTDOORUAE
47 POINT65 RUM RUNNER
50 DESERT READY DIVA!
62 MOHAMED HESHAM KAMEL
TRIED + TESTED
PEOPLE
40 GOPRO HERO4 SESSION

44 2XU GHST T-SHIRT AND SINGLET
47 POINT65 RUM RUNNER
62 MOHAMED HESHAM KAMEL

63 LINA ZOGHAIB
OUR EXPERTS
LOCATIONS
50 DESERT READY DIVA! MARINA

52 DIVING ARABIA: THE ESSENTIALS JAKE
54 MAKE A SPLASH IN QATAR - EULOGY
56 CASTING FAR FROM SHORE KIT
58 WOMEN ON WHEELS HELLE
60 DESERT RUNNING GEAR - NICO
64 THE OMANI STRETCH

66 NEW ROUTES FEATURE
TIPS + TRICKS
70 TRIATHLON FITNESS
OUTDOORUAE
EVENTS CALENDAR
STAY UP-TO-DATE WITH THE LATEST EVENTS
SEPTEMBER 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
FEATURED EVENT
S
E
P
T
ABU DHABI INTERNATIONAL HUNTING AND EQUESTRIAN EXHIBITION
The largest and most prestigious exhibition of outdoor activities, equestrian, and hunting that has been part
of the UAEs deep traditions.
When: September 9-12
Where: ADNEC, Abu Dhabi
S
E
P
T
SPINNEYS BUILD UP RIDE 1 OF 4
Get back on your bicycles and prepare for the Spinneys Dubai
92 Cycle Challenge in this series of rides.
When: September 4
Where: Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park
Contact: www.cyclechallenge.ae
Contact: www.adihex.net
S
E
P
T
HH SHEIKH MANSOOR BIN ZAYED

AL NAHYAN GLOBAL ARABIAN HORSE
FLAT FESTIVAL 2015
A commemorative race series spanning six continents, the

UAE leg sees riders vie for the Wathba Stud Farm Cup.
Open only to Arabic horses of UAE breed.
Where: ADNEC, Abu Dhabi
Contact: www.sheikhmansoorfestival.com
SEPT
09
SHEIKHA HIND WOMENS

SPORTS TOURNAMENT
The only event dedicated to Emirati women

encouraging sports and general well-being.
SEPT
17
12
THE JEBEL JAIS 1 HOUR

RECORD CHALLENGE
Discover how far you can go on the tallest

mountain of the UAE.
When: September 12, 5:30 a.m.
Where: Ras al Khaimah
Contact: www.premieronline.com
OUTDOORUAE
Two fun events a duathlon on one day and an

aquathlon on the next and a relaxing rest afterwards.
When: September 17, 4:00 p.m.
Where: Jebel Jais and The Cove Rotana
Contact: www.supertriuae.com

Where: Dubai World Trade Centre
Contact: www.dubaicalendar.ae
SEPT
GO STRONG WARM UP
WEEKEND AWAY
SEPT
17
DUBAI GLADIATORS CHALLENGE
An enjoyable indoor adventure challenge for the

whole family and office.
Where: Dubai Sports City
Contact: www.dubai-gladiators.com, 055-864-7125

www.premieronline.com
18
S
E
P
T
ALOFT RUNS FOR CHILDREN ADNEC 2015
A 2km charity run held inside the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
12
Where: ADNEC
S
E
P
T
Contact: www.aloftabudhabi.com
26
S
E
P
T
60FT DHOW RACE ROUND 1
DUBAI DESERT ROAD RUN 10K AND 3K
When: September 12
Where: Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club
Contact: www.adsyc.ae

Where: The Sevens Village Area, Al Ain Road
The first leg of a series of races seeing traditional

dhows racing against each other.
SEPT
18
LABOUR RUN 2015

RUN SO THEY CAN RUN
Runners and labourers run together in this

one-of-a-kind event.
An intense 10K road race and a 3K fun run, all held on safe,
traffic-free, private roads.
SEPT
27

Where: Sonapur, Muhaisnah 2, Dubai
SEPT
19
CSD 109KM RIDE
Be part of the first group to ride around

the new loop in Al Qudra.
When: September 19
Where: Dubai Cycling Course, Al Qudra
Contact: www.cyclesafedubai.com
ICE WARRIOR CHARITY

CHALLENGE VI
The toughest commando assault course with over

15 courses to tackle; all in snow!
When: Registration until September 27,
Event on October 2
Where: Ski Dubai, Mall of Emirates
SEPT
27
HILTON DUBAI TOWER RACE 2015
Support the Emirates Red Crescent in this vertical

run spanning 730 stairs over 36 floors.
When: Registration until September 27,
Event on October 3
Where: Hilton Dubai
OUTDOORUAE
BEST SHOTS
Here are the best shots sent in by you for our monthly 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 three winners, who will each receive Buff headwear, five free copies of
the magazine and the Advance Off-road Guidebook: Jack Lee Sarming, Rastaboy Centeno and Jitesh Sundar. Well done!
To submit your entries, simply email us at competitions@outdooruae.com with the subject Best Shots.
Jack Lee Sarming
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary Sunset
Rastaboy Centeno
Those are not Ants
OUTDOORUAE
Jithesh Sundar
RAK mountains
Sponsors and Exhibitors:
Organised by:
Medical Partner:
Media Partners:
Supported by:
Partners for the event registration:
THE
OFF-ROADERS
corner
The League of Extraordinary Off-Roaders
ALMOST4X4
Words By: Keith Perea
Photos By: Mohanned Sahi
With over 2,000 members and

counting, the Adventurous League
of Mountains, Oceans and Sand
Thrills - most popularly known
as ALMOST4x4 - comprises one
of the largest 4x4 groups in the
United Arab Emirates. A multicultural group with members of
varying backgrounds and expertise,
it could be said that this is the it
group to be part of.
Tracing its origins back to 2006 as a group
made by a couple of friends, ALMOST4x4
became officially known by its current name
in 2008. Combining 22 years of off-roading
expertise with mechanical, communication and navigation skills, the group is also
recognised as a professional off-road club
by the Emirates Motor Sports Federation
(EMSF), which is the governing body for
grassroots motorsport in the UAE.
One of the unique things that I noticed
with the group is that from the logo to the
group name, everything bears some meaning. According to their forums

(www.almost4x4.com) the acronym stands
for the wide range of activities that the
group takes part in. Other than that it also
encourages people into the group by presenting a non-elitist approach of having to
have a 4x4 to be able to join in their own
words, to encourage non off-roaders to join
in on the group as well.
The logo also has an interesting
provenance as it exhibits the groups wide
range of activities. The logo has three elements: the inverted triangle which is used
to grab attention; the scorpion a common
animal associated with the desert; and lastly
the colour orange symbolizing the sun and
sand. Putting all of these together,
ALMOST4x4 has created a logo that
encourages all people, off-roader or
otherwise, to join their group regardless of
race, creed or colour.
The group has members as well as
marshals that represent the diverse community of the UAE, meaning that the members
get to see various perspectives and viewpoints from the other cultures that they
mingle with. Apart from cultural diversity,
the group also prides itself on being nonspecific about their vehicles any car with
4x4 capabilities is eligible to be part of their
driving group.
One of the biggest benefits of being part
of the group, apart from the espoused comradeship, is the fact that there is a fantastic
opportunity for each and every member to
grow thanks to the guidance of their
experienced marshals, who give friendly tips

on safe driving techniques, technical knowhow and even break the ice for newcomers
to make them feel at home. All of their trips
are graded so that there is something for
everyone experienced or otherwise.
As a large and diverse family,
ALMOST4x4 is perhaps the metaphorical
equivalent of the UAE in off-roading. Its
people hail from different countries, all
coming together around a similar interest
and goal.
FULLY LOADED FOR ALL-OUT PERFORMANCE

SL Features:
n Slingshot Red Pearl Paint
n Blade Wind Deflector
n Premium 18 Cast Aluminum Front Wheels, 20 Cast Aluminum Rear Wheel
n Media Console: 4.3 LCD Screen, Backup Camera, 6 Speaker Audio System, Bluetooth Integration
Standard Features:
n 2.4 Liter DOHC Engine
n 5-Speed Manual Transmission
n High-Strength Steel Spaceframe
n 3-Point Seatbelts
n LED Tailights and Projector - Beam Headlights
n Double-Wishbone Front Suspension with Sway Bar
n Electronic Power-Assisted Steering
n Electronic Stability Control
n ABS Disk Brakes
n Tilt Steering
n Adjustable, Waterproof Seats
n Lockable Storage Bins and Glove Box
DUBAI
Showroom No. 8, Al Ghandi Complex
Nad al Hamar Road, Ras al Khor
Tel: +971 4 2896100
Fax: +971 4 2894914
Email: sse@polarisuae.com
AL AIN
Al Masaood Showroom, Sanaya
Tel: +971 3 7219999
BADA ZAYED
Al Masaood Showroom, Sanaya
Tel: +971 2 8844200
MUSSAFAH
M4, Sector 13, 10th Street
Tel: +971 2 5555144
DISTRIBUTORS
QATAR
Protech Powered Sports Co
Street: Salwa Road PO Box: 91, Doha, Qatar
Tel: +974 44398030
Fax: +974 44398030
Sales
Email: info@protech.com.qa
OMAN
FairTrade Auto Services LLC
P.O. Box 2636, Ruwi, Muscat
Tel: +968 96778552
Fax: +96824701787
LEBANON
Helmets On sarl
Independence Street, Sodeco, Beirut
Tel: + 961 1 644442
Fax: + 961 1 633332
Contact person
Mr. R. K. Sunder
Email: sunder@ftgroupholding.com
Contact person
Mr. Khalil Abu Chwareb
Email: khalil@helmets-on.com
ACTIVITY REPORT
Words By: Kevin Rosbotham

Photos By: Ross Rosbotham and Stuart March Photography
Distance: 100 Miles (160 km)

Elevation Gain: 3300m
Cut-off: 30 hours
The South Downs Way 100

(SDW 100) is an annual United
Kingdom single-stage trail run,
ran by Centurion Running which
runs the length of the UK National
Footpath, The South Downs Way,
from Winchester, the capital city of
Saxon England heading east along
the chalk ridgeway to Eastbourne.
This year, two Abu Dhabi Striders members, me and Khalid Hamid, travelled to
the UK from the United Arab Emirates to
participate in the run held on 13th June.
Having trained in the UAE all throughout
the winter in preparation for the event. The
UAE-based runners were supported in the
race (crewed) by my wife, Ross.
We had a race strategy designed to get
us through with minimum stress; 10 minutes
hike, 20 minutes run, overlaid with walk
Signpost
Kevin - the Sun is out - this is what it is all about!
uphill, run downhill, and we applied it from

the start. We were last to emerge from the
starting paddock having started off hiking,
but we made good progress. Everything
was familiar, and we werent concerned with
navigation, as we had competed in the same
event the previous year. We arrived intending to run the whole distance together.
Before we knew it we were at Beacon
Hill Beeches (9.85 miles) in an hour and 55

minutes. Far too fast, as Khalid pointed
out, and although I agreed, it seemed really easy, well to me anyway! I didnt hear
Khalids subtext, this is far too fast for me
to maintain for much longer. We arrived at
Queen Elizabeth Country Park (QECP, 22.6
miles) in four hours and 40 minutes, and I
was still feeling very strong, but I did note
that Khalid was falling behind in the hiking
stages, but not terribly so.
Leaving QECP, the route had changed
from last year, for the better in my opinion;
it now climbed up through a very long
footpath in the woods, adding a little extra elevation to the whole route. I loved
this bit and power-hiked up for all it was
worth, having just stocked up at the aid station. I slowed to the top for Khalid to catch
up, and he did a little uphill jog to speed
the catch up. When he arrived next to me,
he was blowing a bit, and admitted he was
struggling with the pace. But he made no
mention of any real issues at this point, so
I slowed a bit and we carried on. About
three miles later, when Khalid did a sideways
hop to avoid a puddle, his calf cramped. I
could see his calf muscle inverting, so I knew
it was quite serious, and I started to deep
massage the calf to try and ease it. In our
conversation though, Khalid admitted that
he was cramping, or on the verge of cramping over his entire body, not a good state to
be in with 75 miles to go.
After a while of hobbling along together,
Khalid told me that I should go and push
on, as he could see that I still felt strong. I
felt really torn, I didnt want to leave Khalid,
really, as I think that it was just that the

but Khalid told me that he was going to
lace was too tight. And then there was
drop out at Cocking (35.1 miles) where
another pain, on the front of my left
Ross would be waiting, so I should leave
shin, and I wasnt at all sure what it was.
immediately and not waste time. So I ran
In retrospect though, this was just a
off, very guilty at leaving Khalid.
dumb-assed decision! I wore some
I passed through Cocking in 7
slightly thicker socks for a snughours 32 minutes (1:32PM), which
ger fit in my shoes on the trail,
was half an hour before we told
but the elastic on the cuff was
Ross we would be there, so I
probably a little tighter than
topped my water and food up
usual. I think that the elastic
at the aid station and passed
irritated the tendon/muscle
quickly through.
on the front of my shin over
Unknown to me, Khalid
the distance I was running and
also arrived at Cocking bewas causing the soreness. Anyway,
fore the 2:00 p.m. we had
none of this was bad, and it only
told Ross, so he refuelled
really hurt when transitioning from
and soldiered on considering
hike to run for a couple of minutes.
the option to drop at Washington
So, I assessed that continuous slow
where we would next see Ross again.
running, where possible, was the
At this point I should say that the aid
best way forward.
stations were again, this year absoI can remember running down
lutely fantastic well-stocked with
into Clayton Windmills (69.8 miles)
happy, helpful people; soup; hot food;
at 15 hours and four minutes (9:04
sweet tea; coke; electrolyte and all sorts
p.m.), and starting to feel a little cold.
of picnic paraphernalia. And, this year,
The wind had picked up and the sun was
having learnt from my previous 100 mile
going down. So, as I left the Windmills,
experiences, there was no messing at aid
I unpacked my waterproof jacket and
stations; in, eat while your bottles are begloves and covered up for the nights
ing filled, out; simple. I dont think I can
running. It was looking like sub-24 hours
do aid stations more efficiently!
was definitely on, and sub-23 was also
My running was now going from
possible. I was on my own almost all
strength to strength, I was hiking much
of the way now, and those people I
less, about 10 minutes per hour, and I
passed were walking, so there were
was also running some of the long slow
only mumbled greetings
inclines. I think I could deKhalid - finishing and looking good
and short polite conversascribe myself as having found
tions about progress and state of health. In
a rhythm that I didnt really have to think
some ways, this may have helped me at this
very much about. I was letting the terrain
juncture, as I was concentrating solely on
decide how I should progress. I arrived at
making good progress and not making conWashington (54 miles) at 11 hours, 25 minversation. This is a state which is far away
utes. A t-shirt change, hug from Ross and
from how I run when I am training, and is
a cup of tea, and I raced out of the village.
not one that I have found myself in before in
I can remember all of the people in the
an ultra-run. A new experience; bring it on!
Washington Hall sat in the chairs by the wall
I reached Southease at 20 hours and five
looking washed out and I felt really strong. I
minutes (2:05 a.m.), which is a little railway
was really happy, and I think I passed lots of
station at which the bridge crossing is compeople in this one stop!
pulsory (disqualification if using the crossKhalid later told me that he teamed up
ing). This year they had two marshals at
with a struggling runner shortly after Washthe bridge to ensure that everyone took the
ington and another after about 65 miles,
prescribed medicine. The bridge steps up
and that together they supported each
must have totalled only one story, but they
other towards the finish
were very difficult! I ran at them to bound
After Washington, it all becomes a bit of
up them two at a time like a stairs training
a blur; I was concentrating on keeping my
session. Oops! I nearly didnt make the
rhythm, and trying to listen to my body for
first clearance! A quick reassessment and
any early signs of breakdown. The balls
I thought best of bounding up the steps,
of my feet started to hurt, it felt like blisinstead opting to drag myself up two at a
ters, but it wasnt too bad so didnt need
time using the bannister...
attending to. My left foot was starting to
I left Southease quickly, feeling good for
hurt under my shoelaces too; a bit stupid
the finish; only 16.1 miles to go.

I had a minor navigation error in Alfriston
at 91.6 miles, where I missed the alley off
the main which leads down to the aid station. I soon recognised the error of my ways
as I ran out of Alfriston on the road, as nothing seemed familiar! I turned and found the
alley on the way back in. I must have been
in a good mental state as this small diversion didnt bother me one bit!
I think that I have to admit that I was
starting to get fatigued now, I found the hill
between Alfriston and Jevington quite hard
work, and was very glad to arrive at Jevington (95.7 miles). Another small navigation
error at Jevington meant that I had to run
back up a small hill to the aid station and
check-in. Thankfully they were happy for me
to shout my race number and I didnt have
to climb the stairs to the aid station.
Only 4.3 miles to the finish, just a hike
up the hill to the trig point and then a long
mile downhill gulley onto the streets of
Eastbourne, and two miles of road to the
athletics track to finish. I finished well, picking up and encouraging three others as we
approached the track. They were buoyed
with my knowledge of the route, as I could
tell them that they were on for less than 23
hours and four of us entered the stadium
together.
22 hours and 44 minutes was so much
faster than what I expected to run. Thank
you to Ross for being such great crew. Thank
you to Khalid for travelling to the UK to run
the race with me, and then encouraging
me to push-on, when he thought he was
finished; thank you to all of the wonderful
volunteers for making such a special event.
I went to bed for three hours and then was
very happy to return to watch Khalid finish
in his usual relaxed manner in 28 hours and
eight minutes; not bad for someone who
was going to drop at 35 miles!
It was a great weekend, it is a great event.
Starters: 266
Finishers: 204
Route Map with Aid Points
OUTDOORUAE
13
ACTIVITY REPORT
Words + Photos By: Angus Carlisle
Dubai based technical diver

Angus Carlisle talks about his
rebreather his essential item of
choice for deep underwater diving
in the UAE.
We have been together now for nearly
four happy years. In spite of that, and unlike
some other divers, mine does not have a
pet name it will have to do.
Every time I go underwater, it comes
with me. We spend so much time together,
with many dives lasting four hours, squeezing through and around the shipwrecks in
the Arabian Gulf and Arabian Sea, followed
by long hours on the decompression line in
clear blue water.
Together we have visited wrecks, reefs,
islands and vast underwater sandy plains
(for training exercises). We have been to
115 metres below the surface, we have
dived in cold winter water (17 degrees C so cold by our standards!) and hot summer
water (a sweaty 36 degrees C). We have
dived in dark and murky waters and also in
bright blue Middle Eastern waters. Most of

this we have put on video. This is another
extraordinary development in recent years,
as my first underwater video camera was
the size of a fridge in comparison to todays
equipment.
Underwater, my rebreather has never
failed me. We have had extensive training
and skill practices together, always carrying
backup systems, just in case. On the surface
we spend many hours in my diving locker at
home, cleaning, servicing and generally just
getting ready for our next trip.
Remarkably, every time we dive, it
saves me money; by rebreathing the
exhaled air, the expensive helium we use for
dives below 40 metres is recycled around
a loop and back into our lungs. It saves a
fortune in gas costs. My open circuit diving
friends will spend in excess of 1500 AED on

gas for a single 100m+ dive, whereas I will
spend 35 AED, or possibly 40 the cost of
an ice cream! My rebreather is of the ECCR
(Electronic Closed Circuit Rebreather) type,
and as I breathe the gas is monitored and
a computer decides how much oxygen to
squirt into the loop to keep my body functioning well.
All in all, it is a most amazing piece of
equipment and in my view it is changing
the way we all spend our time underwater.
Whilst all the hoses make it look extremely
complicated, you dont do much more than
put it on, do your checks and go diving. If
something goes wrong underwater, well
thats a different story and explains the
many hours of training required before you
use one of these machines yourselves.
Rebreathers have, in the past, had a
fearsome reputation for killing their owners - and for those not in the know, that
reputation is sadly rolled forward still by
some commentators who dont know what
they are talking about. In fact, the real story
is that the manufacturers have been working
very hard and now produce extremely reliable machines for us to use. And yes, electronics and water can mix without problems.
Which machine would you get then, if you
wanted to? There are quite a few choices
out there, and therein lies a difficulty. As
well as the usual marketing hype, ask any
owner who has just spent close to 10,000
USD on a rebreather to make a recommendation, and they are hardly going to tell you
that they should have bought something
else! Instead, take your time, do your
training and see what everyone else is
doing. Ask yourself who is succeeding
and who is having problems and then the
answer will appear.
ACTIVITY REPORT
C ustom Made Surfboards

Words By: Carl de Villiers
As a long time surfer and Surf

Shop owner, I have been through a
lot of boards since I started
surfing as a kid, from hand me
downs to my own purchases when I
could finally afford them.
Like most people, I used to go into a surf
shop and get a recommended board off the
shelf. This was great but a lot of the time,
it was a lucky draw and the advice could
also be geared towards a sale for the sales
person rather than what was best for me. This
resulted in some hits and misses, some great
boards and some terrible ones.
This was also in the days of hand
shaping where surfboard shapers hand
shaped boards out of a big block of foam and
their skill levels were akin to great
artists. The problem with this hand shaping
was if you broke your board or it was old
and ragged, it was very difficult to reproduce
the same board and every reproduction felt
different.
Now days, the shapers work is on the
computer. Shapers use 3D design software to
design perfect shapes and tweak boards to
the smallest levels to improve performance
and shapes. Where surfboards were previously measured by their size, most are now
measured by volume. A machine grinds
down the foam to exact specifications of the
3D design and the shapers job is easy as he
scrubs off the board, cleans it up and adds
finishing details. This means that 90% of the
board is done by a machine and the other
10% is where the shaper adds his magic, but
16
OUTDOORUAE
in essence a lot of the magic has been done

on the computer before this has even started.
The advantages of this are immense for
production and design as the volume can
be calculated and adjusted to fit the shape
of a board. For example, a surfboard that
was previously an 80 minimal can be shrunk
down to a 66 with wider and thicker dimensions. This has been great in terms of beginners surfboard design where the traditional
longboard or minimal for learners is being
offered in a smaller and more maneuverable
design. This has also been fantastic for small
wave boards and there are some epic designs
on the market that allow surfers to ride the
smallest, weakest waves on a short board
when traditionally you would have to use your
longboard. For reference, check out the Lost
Surfboards range which offer some great,
small wave rippers as well as shapes that can
be adjusted to suit the beginner to intermediate levels.
Production times have also improved
greatly and there have been some real
advances in manufacturing. Materials have
also been updated with EPS (Expanded
Polystyrene) being used instead of standard
PU (Polyurethane). EPS is considerably light,
has excellent flex properties and floats about
20 30% more than PU so its a great choice
for small wave boards. Lighter equals faster in
junky and weak surf.
Nowadays, I only ride custom-made
surfboards. I very seldom ride boards mass
produced in Asia or from shapes that havent
been worked and tweaked by an actual
surfboard shaper. I feel this is true to the
artform and I like working directly with shapers to get the best out of my performance
and get boards the way I like them. Almost all
the WSL (World Surfing League) surfers ride
custom-made surfboards and most even get

into the shaping bay themselves to personally tweak and produce boards. Surfboards
companies like Al Merricks Channel Islands
actually have independent shaping bays for
these pros so they can work on their own to
develop their perfect surfboard.
The advantages of getting a custom made
surfboard is that they cost the same as your
off the shelf board but you get to tweak and
customise the board as much as you like for
your own surfing needs. You also get to improve your surfing a lot, as each year you can
tweak your favorite shape or go with the next
years more refined model. You can also tweak
the length down to an inch, the thickness
to 16th of an inch, select your volume, add
channels, choose you fins set-ups and choice
of foam - from strong and heavy to light and
softer. You can also choose your glassing from
ultralight to super strong and add artwork as
well as your name, leaving you with a truly
great board every time.
Most surfers (like myself) choose their
shapes based on what styles we like. For
Oman, Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates
and other local conditions, I get EPS foam
as it floats better, gives me great paddling
advantage and allows me to ride my boards
about an inch or two smaller than I usually
do. I also try new styles of fins such as FCS II
set-up, futures as well as experiment with fin
set-ups of quads versus tri-fin to get the
best results.
All of this allows the average surfer to really
step beyond the old days of lucky dips, magic
one-off boards and be able to work directly
with the people who design, shape and ride
the best boards on the planet.
For more information on custom surfboards, please visit www.surfshoparabia.com.
Bespoke Vehicle
Customisation
at Ramy 4x4
Words By: Griff Gough-Walters
Despite the rigorous

pre-production testing that new
4x4s go through, most of them are
designed with the masses in mind
and more often than not, off-road
enthusiasts have to modify them to
suit their individual needs. Off-road
specialist Ramy 4x4 offers a
bespoke service in which
customers can order and
professionally upgrade their vehicle
to their individual preferences with
the help of modification experts.
The experience begins with the customer
coming to the showroom to meet an experienced representative who will find out what
4x4 the customer already owns. Or if they
are interested in purchasing a Jeep then it is
actually possible to order one from the dealer
through Ramy 4x4. Exploring what type of
off-roader the customer is allows the
representative to identify the upgrades that

they will find most useful. However, choosing the different upgrades can sometimes
be a challenge which is why the representative is on-hand to share their experiences of
each suspension package, exhaust system,
axle reinforcement and lighting setup. The
conversation even goes as far as deciding on
a particular colour scheme or supercharger
configuration. Well go that extra mile to
get your smile Ramy 4x4 stands by their
motto to ensure that no matter what part
the customer wants, they will either find it or
fabricate it themselves.
Once a budget is set and a list of everything that is to be installed is created, then
the vehicle is delivered to the workshop where the fun begins! Technicians with racing
experience ensure that every part is installed
correctly with pinpoint accuracy. All of the vehicles that Ramy 4x4 works on are guaranteed
to be the best performing and safest both
on the road as well as off it, a very important
factor when modifying your car. As is the
relationship between the company and the
customer which is unrivalled by any other garage in the Middle East and one of the main
reasons as to why Ramy 4x4 regularly sees
customers travelling from Bahrain, Oman,

Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and
Kuwait to create their own bespoke vehicle.
That honest relationship continues until after
the project is finished and the customer visits
the desert with the representative to ensure
that the vehicle surpasses all expectations.
Over the years Ramy 4x4 has created some
truly incredible vehicles through this service.
One look at the pictures and its obvious that
they arent just some new parts thrown onto
a standard 4x4 these are fully engineered
machines unlike anything else on the road
which look and perform exactly how the
owner specified.
To see some more examples of vehicles

modified by Ramy 4x4 search for
#ramy4x4project online or find us on
Facebook. If you are interested in
creating your own modified vehicle with
Ramy 4x4 then get in touch with us by
contacting sales@ramy4x4.com or on
our hotlines.
Dubai: +971 4 269 8138,
Abu Dhabi: +971 2 554 8466,
Al Ain: +971 3 755 4101,
Egypt: +2010 2331 6669
OUTDOORUAE
17
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
French climber Nadine Rousselot casually redpointing a burly 7c
Words + Photos By: Read Macadam and Tara Atkinson
Time started to catch up with

us. After one month on the road,
with the climbing, the partying, the
constant travel and long drives of
the Woodstock Roctrip our energy
levels were waning. Yet, with our
lungs full of Sakarkayas cool
mountain air we packed eagerly,
excited for the last leg of our
incredible journey.
Bundled into Isas van for the long
drive, now with a new member of our
Once each week the local market opens and
climbers venture down the hill to stock up on
delicious fresh local fruits, veg, nuts and bread
Traditional Turkish bread and gozleme.

If only photos could capture smells
teamsleeping quietly in the back (no doubt

snoring away the social excitement from
her previous nights in Bafa Lake), we zipped
down the narrow roads away from Kapikiri
and into new landscapes. With the windows
down we shouted our remarks about the
beauty of the changing landscape, our arms
hanging out the sills, our brows perspiring in
the dry heat. Then it rained and we kept the
windows down to suck up the cold damp air
before stopping at an unknown village market, which was bustling with people selling
and buying the locally grown produce.
Turkey is pleasantly surprising. Turks are
clearly proud people. They keep their cities
and villages immaculately clean. They bring
their fruit and vegetables to the market and
will not budge in a game of bargaining, yet
they are not too proud that upon request for
only a small amount of spices, they graciously hand them over as a gift; This one
you must try!
I run into a well dressed gentleman on his
scooter. He has ridden into the centre of the
covered marketplace and a ray of sunshine
has put him in a spotlight. I motion to my
camera, Merhaba, may I take your photo,
please? I smile. Mais oui, he responds,
as if I had broached the subject in French.
He grins for the camera and shares with me
his story of years in Paris during the 1960s,
when he was in his thirties. Cest pas possible, I am shocked. He looks no older than
The man on the motorbike. Classic market life
Geyikbayiri, the camps and the climbing
Swede Said Belhaj styled this 8a+ onsight
There are so many routes at each grade that it seemed ludicrous to take a project
65. Mais oui, he says, incredibly still shaking my hand as if we were old pals reunited,
Jai quatre vingt quatre annes, he says,
grinning. His Rs rolled off his tongue in the
oriental way and endearingly he carefully
articulated each syllable, clearly enjoying
the opportunity to rehash his excellent
French. Eventually, I got my hand back and
we set off for the remainder of the journey
to Geyikbayiri.
You may recall, if you have followed our
journey, that GPS maps on our trip have
a reputation for leading us astray. It is of
course with this in mind that we embarked
on the track demarcated by the very squiggly narrow yellow line on the vans faultless
GPS device. It would save us 40km
and lose us about two hours, whilst
leading us past behemoth logging trucks
up narrow, dust fogged, rutted roads. Then

we were skidding down, literally skidding,
through running streams, scraping pine
trees on both sides, past remote village
settlements and into the centre of what the
GPS was certain to be Geyikbayiri. It was
not and it was very dark. An angry dog,
guard of the driveway we found ourselves
on, reminded us of our folly. We laughed,
but secretly I was so relieved for the offered
directions to a camping site, which is a
whole other story. Have you seen a vintage
Airstream caravan towed down a loose and
dangerous track before? Epic.
But of course, we were there for the
climbing. Geyikbayiri is one of those
destinations like Tonsai in Thailand, or like
Kalymnos in that everything is just so accessible and the quality of the rock is excellent,
especially if you like steep tufas.

It is a pretty idyllic spot. We woke up each
day amongst the pomegranate trees, heavy
with fruit and birds singing. Eating in the
filtered sunlight, we warmed ourselves after
chilly nights, watching the earliest risers
climbing on the gorgeous glowing orange
cliffs surrounding the campgrounds in
Much of the climbing in Geyikbayiri is just steps away from the campsite
Climbing roulette
OUTDOORUAE
19
Please, Read pleaded. Just one more climb before

we go? Casually onsighting one last classic 7b+
before the sun set on our last day at Citdibi
Geyikbayiri, spying our lines that we would

try that day. Except for when we were woken up by people arguing in their tent yes,
folks, tents are paper thin and we heard it
all or by discourteous families, letting their
children run amok amongst the tents at 6:30
a.m. After 40 days on the road, constant
travel and little rest, I felt utterly drained.
And now I was feeling grumpy. Climbing
was now a chore, the last thing I want it to
be. Even in such a fantastic place!
It was a pleasant surprise, though, to
arrive at camp one day and bump into Neil
Gresham, the true professionals professional in climbing. I had the pleasure of deep
water soloing with Neil and friends in Oman
back in 2011, and he does not mess around.
For the next few days Tara and I teamed up
with Neil and his crew of British strongmen:
Steve McClure (the best climber on the
Roctrip, hands down), Leah Crane (stronger
than you) and Liam Lonsdale (the one true
bobbydazzler).
We climbed and laughed, mainly laughing, and after switching to Kezbans much
quieter and laid back campsite, my motivation returned. We first climbed in the
newest cliff that the Petzl team had bolted
the year prior, Citdibi. After a drive up a
winding mountain road, with ever larger
craggy mountain tops filling the windscreen,
Citdibi looms obvious, with magnificent
The Petzl Roctrip Caravan setting up at camp
blue and orange streaked stone. The climbers relished in the cool mountain air on the
outlandish rock structures.
Back down in the busier main crag of
Geyikbayiri, Trebenna, we entertained ourselves with Climbing Roulette say what?!
Climbing roulette is the cure for any cynic at
an overly busy crag. The rules are simple: If
you have at least four people in your group
and most of the routes are busy, select
two routes farther out that are completely
unknown to you. The two climbers then play
a gentlemanly, best-of-three round of Rock,
Paper, Scissors to decide which of the two
routes they will each ascend. Finally, both
must climb into the unknown simultaneously.
It is very useful to continue your witty banter

and insults of discouragement, especially if
you have the easier of the two routes.
With renewed motivation but failing
energy levels, I began my spree of falling
off the last move of every 8th grade route
that I attempted to onsight (onsight means
literally on sight ones first try). I loved
every minute of it. There are so many routes
concentrated in such a small area that even
mid-flight I had another route in mind. More
on this later as we ended up going back to
Geyikbayiri post Roctrip to finish off what
I started! First things first. The Roctrip was
shifting to its final destination the ancient
port city of Olympos.
Each night the roctrippers gathered around to

hear and share stories from the vertical world
Sheesa Beach
Words By: Neil Murphy
Photos By: Jurgens Swarts
Musandam, the Attraction
Just an hour and a half out of the concrete

maze that is Dubai, lies an area with majestic
scenery, incredible marine biodiversity and is
possibly one of the most strategic pieces of
land on the planet. An hour and a half away
in another country and a different time is on
every travellers or residents bucket list.
Services
Sheesa Beach operates eight dhows, numerous speedboats and a 180-bed camp. Our
offices are conveniently located in the port.
From half day trips, seven day/seven night
trips and speedboat trips, we offer it all. The
most popular trips are our weekend getaway safaris over two days and nights. All our
dhows have on-board watersports activities
from diving, kayaking, banana boat rides (the
flying fish to be introduced shortly), snorkelling and traditional Omani hand-line fishing.
We have hotel trained on-board chefs to
whip up sumptuous meals and they cater to
dietary requests as well.
The Dive Centre
We operate a licensed PADI dive resort that

offers diving for everyone. From beginners
who want to experience diving for the first

time, we run the ever popular Discover Scuba
Diving experience. The waters in the Musandam are marine rich and you are guaranteed
to have a more thorough and professional
experience with us on your initial voyage into
the blue than you will in the murky waters of
Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For the experienced
divers and those who have just started out,
we have dive sites to suit everyone`s need.
From the Quoin Islands in the Straits of Hormuz, to quiet bays and colourful reefs a
dive site to suit every palate. The instructors/
guides at Sheesa also offer a unique blend of
having come from different backgrounds and
thus are able to impart a wealth of knowledge, safety and enjoyment to our clients.
Diver Training
Personally I think that some of the most

important considerations for one looking to
do a course are:
Location Diving in marine heaven
Our own fleet We cut out the middleman
and thus make the training more affordable.
Knowledge/Professionalism Simply we are
the best of the best - try us!
Personality Fun and learning are part of
our ethos.
Package integration and cost You can do
a two-day live aboard safari and complete
your chosen course for virtually the same
price as you would find completing your

course at a local dive centre in Dubai or Abu
Dhabi.
Dive Trips
The eight dhows we operate afford us the

opportunity to provide our clients with tailormade itineraries. We specialize in group
bookings and we run sharing trips for our
clients as well. We are also the only centre
to run a three-day/three-night sharing trip
that showcases the far northern sites and
places where fish don`t know your name.
Our captains are owners of the company and
know areas that are very infrequently dived
besides us of course. Our speedboats trips
run up to the top of the peninsula as well and
they provide a great day out for those who
only have a day spare. In the cooler months
our camp provides a great overnight option
before choosing your preferred trip the following day.
NonDive Trips
We offer a half day pleasure cruise every day

as well as overnight safaris for those who just
want to get away and spend time with loved
ones and friends. Kayaking, banana boats;
discover dives during the day and an evening
under the Musandam stars.
OUTDOORUAE
21
Words By: Abdullah Alshalabi
Im not sure if you are like me or

not, but whenever I travel to a new
city I think if there is good fishing to
be found. During my entire life, I always find it difficult to find a fishing
guide or a fishing charter boat.
I went to so many fishing trips, but most of
them were a disaster. I went fishing in Kuwait,
Oman, Spain and Hong Kong to name a few
and they all had one thing in common - they
were all unsatisfactory. Some were okay, but
never like the videos I saw on Youtube. Why
is it so difficult to go on a good fishing trip?
I know I was doing something wrong, but I
didnt have proper guidance. Im not the kind
of person that does lots of research and consults many people before making a decision.
I didnt have real fishermen friends, neither
my dad taught me fishing. I learned from my
uncle, but he got married and left me behind!
I once organised a fishing trip for my
friends to Oman. Of course the trigger was a
Youtube video with people catching a huge
grouper. What we know is that everyone is
talking about this city called Shuwaymiyah in
Oman. So we booked our tickets to Muscat
and off we go. We arrived and asked the
taxi to take us to Shuwaymiyah. He laughed
so much he thought we were joking. I told
him Why you are laughing? He said its 10
hours away! (Okay, in my defence that was
before Google Maps existed).
So we shifted to plan B, to fish in Muscat.
We asked the taxi if he knew a captain, he
said Maybe, give me until tomorrow. We
asked the hotel, they didnt know anyone, so
we stuck with the taxi driver. He was on time
in the morning and he said the best way to
go fishing is to go with real fishermen. So
he took us to the fish market! He found local
fishermen that agreed to take us fishing. The

problem is, they dont have fishing tackle and
they left us with their youngest crew! To make
a long story short, the trip was a disaster. The
next couple of days werent any better.
After having the same problem over and
over again, I decided to start Fishfishme.
Our mission is to make booking a fishing
trip super easy, from finding the best captain
to facilitating the payment. Fishfishme now
have more than 1,000 fishing charter partners
spread in more than 30 countries around the
world. We currently have three offices - in
Dubai, United Arab Emirates; Malaga, Spain
and San Diego, United States. Fishfishme
helped more than 4,500 people go fishing.
If you are thinking to book a fishing trip,

give fishfishme.ae a try. It should take you
less than three minutes to book a fishing trip
without doing five phone calls and go to the
captain to pay him in cash! Youll find customer reviews and will be able to compare prices
to make a better decision. Moreover, in UAE
we are offering sharing trips in Dubai, Abu
Dhabi and Fujairah. These trips are organized
with the best captains in the UAE (based on
our customers reviews), and the prices starts
at only 250 AED/person.
If you have any questions you can

always contact me directly at
abdullah@fishfishme.com. Or you can
call our team at 800-FISHING (800 347
4464). Follow us on Facebook to stay up
to date. If you are an Instagram person
then you can find us @fishfishme.
GEMINI & NOMAD

Kayaking offers the simplest and most efficient way to explore
by water. Very portable, easy to learn and fun to do. Feelfrees
combination of unique features including a wheel in the keel for
easy one person handling on land, moulded in handles for reliability
and great aesthetics all combine to allow you to experience the
best feeling on the water.
AVAILABLE AT
ADVENTURE HQ AL YOUSUF SHOWROOMS GO SPORT
MODELLS YALLAOUTDOOR.COM
Distributor of awesome outdoor brands. www.globalclimbing.com
ACTIVITY REPORT
Down the Range

The Festive Calgary Stampede
Words + Photos By: Darryl MacDonald
Eight seconds. The longest

and most difficult eight seconds
imaginable; sitting atop a 900kg
animal, using only a single hand
with a braided rope to hold the
rider in position.
A hush falls over the crowd of onlookers,
as the rider checks his grip then signals with
a nod. The gate flies open and the mass of
muscle beneath him suddenly comes to life,
leaping into the air then turning, first left then
right, all the while bucking and rolling with
incredible force. The rider, still only using a
single hand, must offset the bulls actions
with his own in order to maintain balance and
keep from being tossed high in the air or,
even worse, slipping off the side and finding
himself underneath the hooves or in front of
the horns of this massive, untamed behemoth. Finally, he hears the blare of the horn,
signaling the end of the eight seconds. The

bull rider releases his grip. As he is launched
from the animal, he attempts to land on his
feet but stumbles and rolls. Quickly looking back, he sees the bull, horns down with
intent in his eyes, coming straight at him. The
rider jumps to his feet as the rodeo clowns
scramble into position, distracting the bull
from his intended target and ultimately leading the bull off the field. This is professional
bull riding, one of the main attractions at the
Calgary Stampede - a long standing tradition
in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Dubbed locally as The Greatest Outdoor
Show on Earth, the Calgary Stampede is an
annual agricultural fair and rodeo held in July
each year, showcasing a very different type
of sport. With roots extending back over 100
years, it is one of the largest events in Cana-
da, attracting visitors from across the country

and around the globe. The Stampede hosts
one million guests on average each year
during its ten days of festivities, with a record
1.2 million visitors this year. These festivities include an extremely broad spectrum of
activities to suit every personality.
The event itself is held near the Calgary
downtown core, but Stampede related
festivities span the city. Communities and
local businesses host free pancake breakfasts
daily for anyone who would like to stop by
for a little Western hospitality. Local restaurants and pubs hold various Western themed
events throughout the week, including live

country music bands, mechanical bull riding
and Western style cuisine. For ten days, cowboy hats, boots and jeans replace suits and
ties, becoming the staple items of clothing
throughout the city.
The main event kicked off with a massive
parade through the downtown area, which is
marshaled each year by a celebrity. Past parade marshals have included Prince William,
Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess
of Cambridge, Chris Hadfield and William
Shatner. On the main fair grounds, there
is enough going on daily to keep visitors
occupied and entertained for days without
succumbing to boredom or repetition. There
are daily music concerts on the grounds
included in the price of admission and a few
larger events, hosting big names in music,
throughout the week at a nearby stadium.
Historically, the Stampede has attracted some
of the biggest names in musical history; not
just country music but everything from rock
and blues to jazz and alternative as well. If
youre a thrill seeker, the midway has plenty
of rides that will get your adrenaline flowing
and turn even the strongest of stomachs.
There is also a daily energy-charged motocross show which includes everything from
BMX racers to back-flipping motorbikes and
snowmobiles on fire, finishing with a woman
propelling herself from a giant, custom made
cannon over a hundred feet into the air! For

the foodies, there is a wide range of midway
food to indulge in. Highlights from this year
included the foot-long corn dog, scorpion
pizza, deep-fried Oreos, mini-doughnuts, the
100 USD dragon dog and spareribs.
The main attraction at the Calgary Stampede however is the rodeo. It is one of the
largest professional rodeos of its kind in
the world. The athletes, both cowboys and
cowgirls, that come to Calgary are some of
the best in the world and compete in this
event for over 1,000,000 USD in prize money.
The rodeo occurs daily and consists of seven
major events:
Barrel Racing Female riders nimbly
manoeuver their thoroughbred horse around
a series of barrels in a race against the clock,
competing for the fastest time, without
knocking over any barrels.
Steer Wrestling The name says it all!
Cowboys race their horses after a young
cow, called a steer, leaping off the horse and
attempting to wrestle the steer onto its back,
again racing against the clock.
Tie-down Roping Cowboys, mounted
on their horse, race after a calf, lasso it and
then leap off the horse in mid stride in an
attempt to tie together the three legs of the
calf whilst racing against the clock.
Saddle Bronc Cowboys attempt to
stay on a bucking bronco (horse) for eight
seconds. Successful riders are scored on their
riding technique, including spurring and also
on the horses bucking performance.
Bareback Riding Like the saddle bronc
event but without the saddle.
Bull Riding One of the most dangerous and anticipated events of the show. It
has been called the most dangerous eight
seconds in sport. Cowboys attempt to stay
on a bucking bull for an action-packed eight
seconds. Successful riders are scored on their
own riding technique and also on the bulls
bucking performance.
Rangeland Derby Nicknamed the
half-mile of hell, four thoroughbreds pull
a covered wagon, or chuckwagon, around
the racetrack. Outriders, accompanying

cowboys, must break camp at the start
and make sure they cross the finish with their
respective wagon. This race originates from
the old cattle drives when the cowboys entertained themselves with camp races as they
neared home.
Every evening finishes with the Grandstand
Show; a spectacle of dancing, singing, acrobatics and fireworks, celebrating Canadian
heritage. All in all the Calgary Stampede is an
event of epic proportions that has something
for everyone. So if youre looking for a reason
to visit Canada, this definitely is a great place
to start.
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
The Honey Badger

Special Episode:
Whats in the Car?
Diaries
Interview By: Keith Perea

Photos By: James and Mira Raley
Transportation has changed

the world in a tremendous way
in that it has made contact with
other countries much easier and
it has made getting from point
A to B much faster. But for the
outdoor community, transportation
has paved the way for exploration
and looking into the unknown
and meeting the wonders that
reside there.
Without a certain mode of transport,
exploration wouldnt be possible. With this
in mind, we catch up with James and Mira
Raley who just about a month ago, returned
to the United Arab Emirates from their
arduous year-long journey across the African
continent. This is the story of the car that
made their journey possible the Honey
Badger.
Where did the name

Honey Badger come from?
James: It took a while to come up with a

name. We eventually happened upon a
YouTube video and it was very amusing and
made us think about honey badgers. They
are ridiculously tough, live in the African
wild, and have a lot of character. That pretty
much sums up what we were trying to
achieve with the car, so we called her the
Honey Badger.
Mira: The idea behind the name was that
our trusted Land Cruiser will be able to drive
through anything and persevere through
the toughest situations we went through.
Although we did have plenty of problems,
the car got us home, so the name was very
suitable.
Were there any other names

you had in mind for the car?
James: El Basha or The Beast

Mira: We did not really have other names
for the car. At one point a friend recommended The Beast but that never really
stuck. She was the Honey Badger all along!
Why this make and model?
James: Good question. We researched

quite carefully through the internet and by
talking to experienced friends. I was keen
on a Land Rover because they are slightly
better off-road with the new traction control,
they look better and they are British (more
or less). It finally boiled down to three irrefutable facts: (1) Land Cruisers are more
reliable, (2) They are easier to repair in Africa
and parts and servicing are cheaper and (3)
They are cheaper to buy in the UAE.
Mira: We spent hours researching what car
would be best for the type of trip we were
doing and although there were plenty of
choices out there, it came down to three
options: a Land Rover 110 Defender, a
Land Cruiser 78 Series and Land Cruiser76
Series. We ended up choosing the 76 series
because it was more robust for 4X4 driving,
and it was what was available to us at the
time. Most people we met on the road with
the Defender had difficulty finding parts
in Africa, however for us that was never a
problem.
Did you imagine how the trip would

have been in a different vehicle?
What would you have chosen?
James: In my opinion, the Land Cruiser
78 (often used as military troop carriers or
ambulances) has similar performance to the
Trialling the new solar panels
ARB fridge and drawer system
76 but is bigger. It is ideal for overlanding

and can be turned into a comfortable home
whilst still getting you everywhere you need
to go. For me, the main appeal of the 78 is
the space for a small living area inside where
you can stay out of the rain and away from
wild animals and insects.
Mira: Another change would be to choose
a Diesel engine over petrol. Although we
never really had much difficulty finding petrol, the cost of it was astonishing and a big
chunk of our budget went to fuelling the car.
What were the first five things

that you got for the Honey Badger
and how did they contribute
during the trip?
James:
Metal bumper from ARB: This allowed us
to drive through thick undergrowth without
worrying about damaging the car. It also
holds the winch, hi-lift jack and additional
lighting which are essential.
Water tank: There is no point in wasting
valuable drinking water on washing dishes
or showers, and this made a big difference.
Ours was only 40 litres and I would probably
choose 100 litres next time.
Vehicle tracking and satellite phones from
SecureLocate: This gave us peace of mind
throughout the trip, especially when we
were out of mobile reception. Whatever the
situation, we always had contact with the
outside world, and friends and family could
always see where our phones were and
where the car was. Knowing that we could
immobilise the car remotely if it was stolen
was another significant advantage.
Roll cage: Thankfully not necessary during
the trip, but after we rolled the car in the
UAE eight months before we left, I insisted
Shower
that we had one fitted. Rolling is much

more likely whilst dune bashing in the UAE
than off-roading in Africa. However,
wherever it happens, it is good to know that
there are a couple of inches of steel between you and the easily crushed roof.
Mira: We started on the exterior of the car
first, so we spent a large chunk of money
on the roof rack, roof tent, back and front
bumpers and leaf springs. Everything on
that list, except for the leaf springs, was from
ARB and we loved their service and product
quality. The leaf springs however, were a
very bad buy and they deteriorated within
weeks. We ended up having to replace
them four times throughout the duration of
the trip.
Having a robust exterior was extremely
useful in very rough terrain, and our roof
tent was probably one of our best buys as it
was very easy to use, it lasted the entire trip
and nothing could beat the size and comfort
in that tent (especially since we added a
mattress, duvet and pillows).
Given the chance, what would you

have left behind and deemed as
unnecessary equipment?
James: A linen suit and pith helmet, excessive shoes and clothes and mosquito nets.
Mira: We definitely over packed. James
has a natural inclination to want to take
everything, assuming that it might be useful

sometime in the future. In some cases things
turned out to be very useful, but in others it
was more of a hassle having to lug around
stuff we really did not use. Luckily we had
family and friends come to visit us at different parts of the trip so we were able to send
stuff back, otherwise we gave a few things
away to people on the road. A list of things
we did not need:
n Climbing equipment
n Lots and lots of clothes that we returned
or gave away
n A Shower Tent that we never used
n More gadgets then we can handle (extra
walkie talkies, extra torches, loads of cables
and camera gear)
Whats the one piece

of equipment you cant imagine
not having in the car?
James: Hi-lift jack. Sometimes the only way

out of a situation is to lift the car, and this is
the only thing that can do it anywhere.
Mira: There are a few essentials that we
definitely could not survive without including
recovery gear for the car, torches, and spare
wheels.
Lastly, how has the Honey Badger

grown onto you after a year of being on the road?
James: It is hard to answer this question

truthfully without sounding materialistic,
but she was our home, our harbour and our
mobility for a whole year.
She is now parked in the garage
awaiting expensive registration.
Occasionally we take her out on short trips
and we are immediately returned to our
happy travelling zone. I will sit behind the
wheel feeling completely content with a
stirring sensation of adventure. Ill glance over
at Mira who will be smiling, and I know that
she feels exactly the same.
Mira: The Honey Badger was our home for
over a year and we have grown attached to
it. Although at times we were sick and tired
of things breaking down, it always managed
to get us to where we needed to be. Even
though we are unable to register it in Dubai as
it is, we plan to keep it and use it as our
camping/weekend car, and maybe take the
time to re-do the interior so that it is better
planned out to include a third member to the
family!
Aluminium box
What did you learn from the Honey

Badger that you plan on applying
on any future journeys?
James: Every vehicle has it limits, and it

pays to know your car extremely well before
you set off.
Mira: - Do not over pack! Take only the
essentials and you will always manage. Buy
Quality , spending more money in the initial
stages would have saved us a bundle later
on in the trip. If you are going to buy second
hand, make sure every part of the car is
checked thoroughly before going ahead
(like the front diff in our case!)
Spare parts from Toyota
OUTDOORUAE
27
TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Lessons from Mary Poppins

and Mother Nature
Words By: Amy Subaey
One thing Elbrus has in common with every other mountain in

the world is the unpredictable and
dangerous weather. Last years
trip gave us a good initiation to the
speed at which weather can change
and this lesson stayed closely with
us this year.
Last July, while on our way up at around
4500 metres, we noticed the wind getting
stronger and heard thunder rumbling in the
distance. No sooner had we said the words
Uh oh, maybe we should turn around?
Suddenly, we all felt a strange buzzing, not
just in our ears, but all around us. Amiras
hair stood up straight on her head around
her headband. We all locked eyes in confusion. An instant later, the clap of distant
thunder was right above us discussion
over. We all started to run. But for some
reason, we didnt all run in the same direction, so we were separated within seconds.
A few of us, including me, were actually hit
by what is described in weather language as
positive streamers. Basically, it means you
have been charged and are about to be
struck by lightning. It probably didnt help
that we were in the snow, carrying metal
axes and wearing metal crampons attached
to our feet. We were little electrical conductors! We were both hit once more by those
28
OUTDOORUAE
positive streamers, but were luckily never hit

by an actual lightning strike. We all made it
back down one by one, greeted with hugs
and tears of joy and relief.
Needless to say, this group was well aware
of those stories told by last years Elbrus
group of UAE Trekkers and keen to avoid
any similar scenario. So when our guide informed us that the weather forecast dictated
a dramatic change of plans, we obliged
without any opposition. But we were still
hesitant as our rescheduled summit bid was
a full two days earlier. This meant pushing
the boundaries of an ideal acclimatization
schedule and just hope that our bodies
would adapt faster.
We even had a positive omen in the
form of a billboard of encouragement from
President Putin on our way to the mountain.
I cant actually think of any other mountain
where Ive seen a presidential endorsement
of our sport. But Putin is smart to show his
support for mountaineering since Mt Elbrus,
as the highest peak in Europe, claims a
prestigious spot in the Seven Summits of
the world club. This brings mountaineers
from all over the world to the tiny village
or Terskol for eight weeks every summer.
Although, its not as high as Kilimanjaro, its

more challenging. Its also a logical transition
from trekking to the first stage of
mountaineering for those aspiring to achieve
higher altitude climbs or more technical
mountains in places like the Himalayas.
We were eager to get going, so we were
first in line to the chairlift set to go, backpacks moved to front and poles in hand. But
the local Russians all went first. One by one,
they each stood on the square, umbrella in
one hand and eyes straight ahead as they
prepared to be launched into the air up the
hill. As if trained by Mary Poppins herself,
they even whistled as they rose steeply and
disappeared into the clouds. After the technique had been clearly demonstrated, we all
followed suit and cheered for each other as
we each successfully launched, as it meant
that we had managed to hold on for the
initial stomach-dropping swing backwards
before going forward and upward.

Our first days hike, just as the chairlift
ride, seemed to start in fast-forward. We
made our way slowly up a steep and rocky
hill to Cheget Peak, at 3750m. But the trail
seemed rockier than I remembered, with
bigger boulders to jump over, and the gaps
between them widening the higher we went.
The precarious cliffs, narrow ledges and
unstable rocks were not made more fun with
a light rain, only more slippery. But when I
asked why we werent doing the gentle trail
clearly visible directly below us, our guide
replied in a heavy Russian accent, This,
adventure trail! But we go back down easy
trail. Everything will be well. And it was
indeed.
Abruptly again on day two, we made our
way up to base camp via two cable cars and
two chairlifts. We settled into Elbrus barrel
hut life for the next four days. The barrel
huts have a bad reputation, but they are
actually quite warm, which is always a winning feature. We all acclimatized well over
the next few days but the weather proved to
indeed be unpredictable and unstable. Our
team walked as slowly as possible to 4700m
in extremely cold, wind and sleet conditions.
We realized that this is not something we
would like to experience any higher up. We
only hoped for a clear day for our summit
attempt, planned for the next day starting
at 4:30 a.m. It was predicted that the blue
sky would hold until early afternoon when
clouds were expected to descend for the
next three days. Since everyone wants to
avoid being above 5000m when the weather
changes, teams have to determine, based
on the pace they set the day before, how
long their summit attempt will take and then
judge whether or not its possible to cover
the distance without the snowcat boost. Its
far from a perfect science, so most people
err on the use the snowcat side of caution,
as did we.
Our summit push went ahead brilliantly.
Richard was the first to reach the highest
point in Europe, which was an astounding
feat considering hed also summited Mt
Ararat, in Turkey, just five days prior. The picturesque summit morning gave our photographer a stunning backdrop. It really is just
as pretty as it looks in the pictures.

We started back down things and were
going so well that Andrew decided to go for
the double summit challenge; heading down
to the saddle then back up to the second
peak, which is a mere 40 metres or so lower
than the main peak. Just as he made the
decision and disappeared from view and out
of walkie-talkie range behind the hill, the
weather turned. It is really hard to describe,
and understand, just how fast this change in
weather happens. In actual time, it was not
more than 15 minutes before the sunny clear
sky gave way to high winds and increasingly
threatening skies. What seemed like it would
have been an enjoyable jaunt back down
to barrels in the snow became a race to
get the next snowcat transport back down
to the safety of the barrels. What we saw
as a boost for people who just didnt want
to hike, we now understood really was for
completely different reasons; the snowcat
saves lives on a mountain that does not
really respect meteorological forecasts and
offers no refuge at all once it changes. And
short of saving lives, it simply minimizes the
risks by reducing the time you are on the
mountain in general.
Back at the barrels, we hesitated for a
congratulatory all down safe celebration.

Andrew still had not returned from his double summit bid, the weather was not
improving, and a team member presented
symptoms of altitude sickness that necessitated getting to a lower altitude as soon
as possible. The ladies of Barrel Hut Four
sprung into action, gathering up the various
jackets, boots, toiletry kits and sleep sacs
thrown about in the morning rush. We all
gracefully practiced our between-the-bunk
cha-cha in order to get past each other in
our hut and get gear packed quickly. Our
guide, Andrei, was frantically working out
a way to get us down by convincing the
chairlift operator to come back up. But, as
luck would have it a pickup truck had just
arrived a bit below the camp to pick up
what seemed to be a giant empty plastic
tank with some skanky water at the bottom.
Within minutes, Margaret and I were on
board. She jumped in the cab and I secured

myself into a spare tire in the bed. Bouncing our way down the mountain we figured
that this little truck was a rather reliable
hikers last resort transit of sorts. Every few
kilometres, we would pick up some
exhausted Russians with giant backpacks
running after us hoping to escape the last
10km. So, the driver stopped for everyone in
need without conversation or question in an
act of unselfish community service. The truck
finished the journey with about 13 hikers
crammed in the truck bed by the time we
got down. As expected, Margarets altitude
sickness symptoms subsided with the drop
in altitude. Crisis averted!
The rest of the team returned the next day
with dramatic stories of their own; lightning
strikes hit just behind the barrel huts. We
were all relieved that we had moved up our
summit push.
Once we were all reunited at the hotel,
showered and fresh, we joined two other
teams that had also summited in the last
few days for the traditional Russian Celebration of Summit Party. As one would
expect, traditional beverages of the local
culture are shared in abundance. In limitless abundance, that most of us took full
advantage of. Why not, after what we had
been through? Climbing the tallest peak
in Europe, in Russia? And who were we to
insult our gracious host country by refusing
their national beverage? This was how we
justified our overindulgence, until we faced
some difficulty finding our way back to the
hotel a few hours later. Considering the
hotel was only 500 meters away on a gravel
road, we really had no good excuse for our
30
OUTDOORUAE
struggle. Unfortunately, the journey did not

end well for the soft tissue under my knee,
which suffered the full force of a five-person
stumble. We were lucky enough to have
a certified nurse on the team, who did her
best to get me cleaned and bandaged
through protests of no big deal.
The next morning, I realized indeed the
injury was going to require attention. The
nearest hospital was about an hour away,
but there was an alternative; a doctor with
an assistant in the local teaching hospital
just 15 minutes away. We also had the help
of our guides, Madga and Anatalia to help
translate the doctors directions. But, in the
seconds that it takes to listen to and translate the sentence Im going to give you a
shot in your knee and its probably going
to hurt the needle was already IN. Next,
without any words being exchanged in any
language, my head was propped up and
a small glass of strong liquid was poured
down my throat. Before I could ask what that
was, a mint green biscuit, about the size of
my entire mouth, was shoved in after it. In
the time it took me to chew the biscuit, the
assistant had refilled the glass and repeated
the traditional Russian pain-numbing
treatment. By the third round, I didnt really

mind how many needles were in my knee.
All I remember thinking was that maybe a
limp and a bandage would be enough for a
complimentary upgrade to business class on
the way home. (It wasnt).
Both trips to Elbrus were so different
to any other mountain Ive climbed. The
chance to visit this part of Russia gives you
a unique insight into the country, its people
that you would not ever experience in one
of the more famous big cities. It is also
quite an achievement for all of us. Most
trekkers had never used crampons, harnesses, ice axes or safety lines. Even those that
were experienced in climbing or in trekking
had not had the opportunity to combine all
of these skills, as you do on Elbrus. And as
usual, the final ingredient in the making of
a memorable and adventurous week is the
group dynamic.
In Kathys words, I would never do these
things alone. Normally, people suffer for
hours together, reach personal limits, but
top that with a natural sense of humour and
who is able to smile after walking for 13
hours (or longer) with all gear up a mountain
and back? The UAE Trekkers!
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TRAVEL + ADVENTURE
Test Your Might:
Brown Trout on Fly

Words By: Nick Bowles
I have been lucky enough to tick

off a couple of bucket list items
lately and when I got given the
opportunity to fish the River Test,
I jumped at it with both hand and
feet. I had been chatting with good
mate Charl Devunge from Farlows
about coming to the United Kingdom and he asked if I would be
interested in fishing the River Test
at the Broadlands Estate with The
river keeper Jon Hall! Yeah good
joke! But it was not joke and the
plan was hatched!
We were staying in Southampton with
good friends Robs and Frank and when I
put in the GPS coordinates for the fishing
it was literally around the corner. I thought
I had the GPS incorrect and rechecked as I
was driving into Southampton but then at
the last traffic circle off the highway, I took a
right to Broadlands.
I drove down some small country lanes in
a small hired car, very different to the thirsty
trucks we have in Dubai and Oman. Finally

I came to the sign Broadlands Fishing! I
spoke to Jon and he said to wait down at
the fishing hut. I arrived there and stopped
on the bridge only to stare at the swirling
river with green weed swaying in the current
and trees overhanging into the river truly
mesmerizing, the same as sitting around a
campfire watching the flames jump around
in the wind. Awesome!
I waited for a while for Charl and Jon to
arrive and had time to check out the fishing hut, which was like a bomb shelter on
the side of the river and you could feel the
history and I felt a bit of nervous creeping
in to think I was going to fish the home of
fly fishing and walk the banks that so many
people and legends have walked before.
I was definitely out of my depth! No big
waves, open water or marauding GTs!
Jon and Charl arrived and we had a
coffee in the hut with some of the other
fishermen fishing some of the famous beats.
Great to sit and chat and tell a few stories!
Finally game time arrived, we got out the
gear! A little different to PE10 and 250lbs
leaders, these were four weight lines with
4lbs leaders! I think the cotton I used for
fixing clothes is stronger! Then the flies
came out and there was no way I was going
to be able to get the line through the eye
of the hook, could not even see if it was in

fact there! But with Charl and Jon on the
case, they set up the gear and the mindset
started to change and I started to get into
the swing of the river and the fishing.
We walked down the river and came up
to the first hole. Straight away both Jon and
Charl got very excited; there was a big fish
in one of the holes and after a few seconds
it turned out to be a salmon! No pressure.
The first fish I was going to cast at was a
salmon, it couldnt get any better. But once
the gear was set up, I realized this was not
going to be as easy as I thought. Kneeling on the grounds casting over thistle and
stinging nettles does not make for easy
fishing. I finally got the hang of fishing off
my knees and managed to put in a couple
of decent casts. The fish was not interested
and after a while we moved on looking for
trout on the number four.
But the adrenaline was pumping and a
great adventure had started. We fished a
couple of runs without too much success
and made our way back to the hut. Jon
waded out into the river with me in tow and
we came up to some fish sitting at the back
of a pool. With a wind rippling the surface
the visibility was not too good and the fish
came in and out of view. Finally we put in
a few casts and had a fish come up but by
the time I realized the fish had taken to fly it
was too late. With a few more words on encouragement and coaching from Jon, I had
another few shots but no hook ups. As we
were about to move, I put in one last cast
over the pool and let the fly drift down the
pool watching the dry fly I was using as an

indicator for the dropper and as I got to the
end of the pool I started to load the line to
do another cast and out of nowhere a tiny
wild brown trout came flying out the weed
and snatched the fly before I could cast
and I had my first River Test trout on. The
little guy tried as hard as he could but even
on the light gear, we had him on hand and
landed my first fish for the day. This time
size definitely did not matter and I was very
chuffed with my first River Test Brown Trout.
With the drought broken, everything
started to fall into place, casting, sighting fish and enjoyment! We walked up the
river stopping and casting at fish, I had a
few follows but no takes. We then got to a
pool with a few fish we could see. I put out
several casts at a couple of the fish with not
much interest shown but then on one of the
casts the brown trout came up and took a
look at the dry fly, turned away and sank

back down towards the bottom, my heart
started to drop, but the fish had second
thoughts and turned around and came up
and sipped the fly off the surface, bang!
Fish on! A nice 3lbs brown on the end of
the line on a number four rod was great fun.
The fish gave a good account for itself. I got
the fish close to the side and Jon netted the
fish and I had a decent sized fish! A good
few pictures and the fish was released back
into the river. Mission accomplished! Brown
trout on the Test on dry fly!
We took a break for lunch at a country
pub and the sun had come out and the
day was just getting better and better, truly
amazing place that is good for the soul. We
had a great lunch chatting about fishing
around the Globe and a few more plans laid
for the future.
For the afternoon session Jon wanted
to try for a salmon! This is the holy grail
of fly fishing, a salmon on the River Test!
I had a shot in the morning but this was a
bit rushed and now we were prepared. Jon
had a spot he thought might work and on
arriving we saw a big salmon sitting at the
end of a small pool. We had a bridge we
could fish off and started casting the salmon
fly back to the fish. After a few attempts the
fish showed no interest but this was window
shopping at its best! You want it so bad,
you are willing to do almost anything.
After a while we changed our angle and
tactic a bit and I put the fly into a deep
hole to try run the fly back to the fish, but
the fly got stuck. I thought it was weed
and gave the rod a bit of a tug and all hell
broke loose! The small pool erupted and
this massive bar of silver started going wild
in the pool that seemed way to small for the
fish! I tried to tighten up on the rod and reel
but as quick as it started it was over! I had
just lost a fish of a lifetime! A big salmon on
the River Test, after the initial shock we all
packed out laughing and could not believe
what had just happened! That fish will live
on in my memory for the rest of my days

and will most probably haunt me to the day
I die! The story will definitely be repeated
many times on the future and the fish will
most probably grow in size!
After trying and trying to get another
hookup on a salmon we finally had to call an
end to the day and headed back to the hut.
On the way back at dusk, Jon said Lets
have one last try at the evening hatch.
There was a bit of wind and the hatch was
minimal but we tried close to the hut and a
few fish started rising. I had a few attempts
and misses. Then as the last bit of daylight
disappeared and I could no longer see the
fly or the line, I could only see the line landing on the water. I had one last chance. I
saw a fish rise up about five metres from the
bank, I put out a cast in the general direction and watched the water, I saw a fish rise
in the general location of where I thought
my fly might be, I took a total chance and
struck! Bang fish on! I fought the brown
as the last disappeared and darkness fell
across the river, Jon landed the fish for me
to a good few high fives and pictures taken.
It does not get much better than that to
end a wonderful experience and day on the
Broadlands Estate on the River Test!
OUTDOORUAE
33
KEEN Footwear Range

Launched in the GCC
Words By: Keith Perea
Photos By: Jung Francisco
The United States headquartered and internationally renowned

footwear brand KEEN launched
their product range in a high profile
event in the Conrad Hotel in Dubai
on the 4th of August 2015. One
of the coolest and most innovative
footwear brands in the world, KEEN
is known for its lifestyle and outdoor performance shoes and toeprotecting sandals. The brand has
already found good acceptance in
this market and the formal launch
will provide a platform for
customers to get the entire range
of KEEN products easily.
The launch was graced by the presence
of Mr. Snehashis Chakrabarty, CFO of the Al
Abbas Group; Mr. Pepe Lozano, International Sales Director of KEEN and Mr. Chandy,
Managing Director of Hadi Enterprises.
The lavish event witnessed the display

of KEENs entire catalogue of sandals,
boots and shoes that are ideal for hiking
and other outdoor activities thanks to their
revolutionary toe protection areas that
ensure safety when climbing. The sandals
also provide utmost comfort so that you not
only have a safe hike, but a convenient one
as well.
Another plus factor is that they are made
of organic materials, making these pairs the
healthiest and most comfortable shoes ever
to hit the UAE. The KEEN range will initially
be available at Hadi Enterprises retail
showroom at Karama, Dubai, and selected
outlets of Sun & Sand Sports, Adventure
HQ, Impressions, Sports One, K Corner and
TOG.
Outlining the history of KEEN, Mr. Pepe
said that the brand started out when a couple of guys kept getting fed up of stubbing
their toes whenever they wore sandals in
their boat. Founded in 2003 by Rory Fuerst,
KEEN began with a simple design question
- can a sandal protect your toes? The answer was yes, and the iconic Newport sandal was born: a game-changing close-toed
performance water sandal that sparked the
KEEN hybrid design philosophy. From then
on KEEN developed and innovated shoes,
boots, sandals, flip-flops and slides which
have proved so popular because they are
so comfortable. All KEEN products are

developed with the consumer in mind and
we really are a business with a conscience.
We have ensured that materials used in the
construction of KEEN footwear come from
recycled sources wherever possible, making
KEEN a true eco brand. We have created
more than 300 different styles of footwear
across water, hiking, lifestyle, winter, kids
and utility styles, as well as bags and socks,
and have created a cult following of fans
around the globe that share a love for outdoor adventures, he added.
These pairs will easily find themselves at
home in the vast outdoor community of the
UAE. They just tick all the right boxes ecofriendly, comfortable and safe. With KEENs
launch, the UAE outdoor community can
rejoice as they have something great to
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FOOTWEAR
APPAREL
Natural History
LIFESTYLE
Going Wild on
Presents
Words By: Dan Wright
Every year parents and friends

have to go through the process
of choosing gifts for children and
each other and sometimes it can
be a real pain in the rear trying to
come up with something new and
unusual, something that wont just
go in a drawer or in a cupboard and
get forgotten about!
If you have been following my series on
wildlife and natural history then you will
know that there is a huge range of outdoor adventures to be had in the United
Arab Emirates. So many different environment based interests from bird watching
to beetling and diving to wadi hikes.
This month Im going to give you a few
simple suggestions for gifts for birthdays
and holiday seasons that will help your
child or friend get started and get into
the natural world of the Arabian Peninsula.
Books:
Many titles are now out of print and I have

had to patiently search through secondhand book shops to find books specifically about the UAE. Theres an excellent
secondhand book shop in the religious
enclave outside Ras Al Khaimah on the
truck road and I have found many great
UAE, Arabian wildlife and natural history
books there. Here are a few that you can
find in book and charity shops that will get
you started.
1. Environmental Atlas of Abu

Dhabi Emirate Published by the En-
vironment Agency in Abu Dhabi. This very

big but excellent book is the perfect study
guide for all matters related to geology
and geography of the Abu Dhabi Emirate.
It is full of useful and easy-to-use graphs
and pictures and is by far one of the best
books in my collection about the UAE. It
costs around 400 AED and is available in
most book stores.
2. Jebel Hafeet, A Natural History
Edited by Simon Aspinall and Peter Hellyer

(two names you will hear regularly associated with the natural world in the UAE).
This is an excellent book if you want to find
out all about the plants and animals that
are native to the area around the highest
mountain in the UAE Jebel Hafeet. The
book comprises a series of studies and
articles by preeminent environmentalists in
the UAE and is a fascinating insight into all
subjects related to the natural world.
36
OUTDOORUAE
3. Snakes of Arabia: A Field Guide

to the Snakes of the Arabian Peninsula and its Shores By Damien Egan.
Another book you can easily find in book

stores around the country like Kinokuniya in
the Dubai Mall. It is a field guide (for budding herpetologists) to the snakes of the
Arabian peninsula and it is small enough to
carry in a backpack as a quick reference.
4. Wild About Reptiles: Field Guide

to the Reptiles and Amphibians of
the UAE By Marycke Jongbloed. This
authoress is synonymous with all matters

related to the wilderness in the UAE and
her fantastic range of books is much sought
after and hard to find! Definitely a few trips
to charity bookshops is whats needed to
turn up a book by Marycke these days. I
have almost the whole range of her books
and they are easy to carry in a backpack and
make great field study references.
5. Field Guide to the Birds of the

Middle East By Porter, Christensen and
Schiermacker-Hansen. This is possibly the

definitive guide to birds (great for budding
ornithologists) in the Arabian Peninsula.
You can find bird guides (usually as annual
research papers) specific to the UAE but I
find that this book encompasses so many
species and gives you scope to visit Oman

and other places like that in the holidays but
only need to carry one book.
6. Creatures of Arabia:
Sea Creatures This is part of the Crea-
tures of Arabia series and is written by Sue

Graves and Frances LaBonte. It is an excellent resource for students and gives you a
good insight into what creatures live under
the seas around us. There are plenty of color
pictures too!
7. Creatures of Arabia: Mammals
Also a part of the Creatures of Arabia series

and this one is written by Mike Unwin and
Frances LaBonte. It is an excellent student
reference and covers the wide range of
mammals living on the Arabian Peninsula.
Equipment:
1. Binoculars (Day) No self-respecting
naturalist (and probably most naturists too!)
would head out into the wilds without a
good pair of binoculars and the range is
so vast that it will seem difficult to choose
which ones are best suited to what you want
them for. Bird watchers may need more
powerful models as birds are often very far
away but a general wildlife watcher doesnt
need to spend too much money and
Small Day and Large Night binoculars
anything that is around 8x40 or 10x25 for

about 150 AED will suit most purposes.
2. Binoculars (Night) Night vision or
LIU (Light Intensification Units) are much

more expensive than regular binoculars
because of the technology needed to turn
night into that fuzzy green daylight you see
on the Discovery Channel. But it opens up
such a fascinating world that it is worth the
investment! So much Arabian wildlife comes
out at night because it is cooler to hunt and
move around. If you set yourselves up with
a couple of camping chairs in a wadi bed
near a water source you will very likely see a
wide range of wildlife youd have no chance
of seeing in the day time. These will cost
anything from 900 AED in Dragon Mart to
5000 AED in some of the more mainstream
electronics shops.
3. Notepad and Pen To record what
you have seen and where and when!
4. Backpack A daysack (15-25 litres) is

fine for most trips and all you really need is
something to carry your binoculars, notepad
and pen, lunch, bottles of water, first aid
kit, sun shade and a reference book or two!
Camouflage or natural tones like khaki or
dull grey are best to stop you sticking out
like a sore thumb on the landscape!
Always follow any Wildlife Protection Orders you see posted in the wilderness
5. First Aid Kit Most outdoors shops
like Adventure HQ , Decathalon and GO

Sport, sell ready-made first aid kits and they
contain everything youll need for a simple
emergency like small cuts and grazes or
dehydration or sun stroke.
them (it helps stop the ankle from breaking).

Most outdoor stores stock these and if you
wait for the sales you can get a great deal!
You should spend from 200 to 600 AED on
a decent branded pair of boots and fabric
boots dont need to be broken in before
using them.
So now you have a few simple ideas for
gifts that you can buy for anyone who wants
to get into the natural world. Remember as
always that it is best to go out with a more
experienced person the first few times and
you should always observe wildlife protection orders (signs that you will see in the
wild) and always follow the Country Code:
Take nothing but Photos, Kill nothing but
Time, Leave nothing but Footprints.
6. Pocket Knife My favorite is the

Leatherman which is basically a cross
between a Swiss Army penknife and a pair
of Pliers and is so useful in the outdoors
that I never go out without it! Easy to find in
hardware stores and outdoor stores.
7. Walking Boots And by this I mean
boots with a proper sole (like Vibram) and a
high ankle to support your ankles if you twist
Daysack
Leatherman Multi Tool
About the Author: Dan Wright is a

freelance Wilderness Guide in the UAE
and Asia, prior to that he worked for an
Emirati Citizenship program. He has a
degree in Environmental Science. Dan
has been on several International wildlife and exploration expeditions with UK
Radio stations and writes for a range
of publications in Asia and the Middle
East. His wife is the former Nepal National Mountain Bike Champion, Nirjala
Tamrakar (See OutdoorUAE, issue44,
page 8). They live in Fujairah with their
son Percy and spend all their spare time
exploring the UAE!
OUTDOORUAE
37
LIFESTYLE
My Thoughts
About Hunting
Words By: Daniel Birkhofer
This subject kept us busy for

some days, if not weeks, last
month after we received a lot of
feedback in regards to some
hunting photos in Africa. We had
many discussions with supporters
of both sides, and as mentioned in
the editorial, giving an answer to
that questions raised as a result
of the pictures would be very hard.
Yet we would like to share some
thoughts, opinions and information,
and hope that this will help both
sides to understand each other
better. At some points in this
article, I will also share my
personal opinion without claiming
that it is right.
The strongest arguments against hunting
in general are propagated by vegans. But to
answer the question of hunting, one has to
ask him or herself: Do I eat meat? which is
obviously, an animal. If you are against hunting, you would be in a weak position if you
consume meat. We spoke to many people
who said that hunting is bad but still go to
the supermarket and buy meat.
It is a fact that a single kilo of animal meat
requires multiple of kilos of vegetables to
feed the animals first. Therefore feeding the
worlds population would be easier and more
efficient if we were all vegetarians. Another
argument that hunting has affected animal
populations and even extinct species in the
past is also true. The point here is that there
are many good arguments on both sides,
which means that the case is not simply black
and white.
What differentiates a deer or an antelope
from a fish or a cow? There is no solid argument; why we care about some animals more
than others is just perception. If we see a wild
animal in Africa or a cute fawn we are
generally more likely to feel pity. The idea
38
OUTDOORUAE
that animals have a consciousness should

apply to all animals, not only the ones we
consider as cute on postcards and in photos.
Nowadays,people are so detached that
they dont stop and think that the meat they
buy in the supermarket or in a restaurant is in
fact a dead animal. We also tend to consume
and desire only parts of animals rather than
using the whole animal like how it was done
generations before. With industrialisation, our
meat consumption increased and most of the
animals we consume nowadays come from
overcrowded mega farms where they might
never even see daylight or a green lawn.
More than 90% of the worlds population
consumes meat, so a significant majority of
us accepts and drives this situation. With this
in mind, I dont think that anyone who eats
meat is in the proper position to argue about
hunting.
Hunting endangered species is an absolute no go, and poaching is illegal, so I think
these two points are out of the question for
anyone.
Trophy hunting is most likely the most
controversial form of hunting and I personally don`t like it. Yet I do understand the
economic factors of the industry that also
brings benefits to these countries. As bad
as it sounds, if something has an economic
value, it is worthwhile protecting especially
in poor countries. Therefore I think it is too
naive to just say Leave the animals and their
habitat untouched, since this would never
happen. Our very existence puts a strain
on the world with almost everything we do.
Pollution, fire clearing and human expansion
is certainly a much bigger threat than a man
with a gun. Dont get me wrong on this point.
I think any cause big or small - that is trying
to protect the smallest area or a single animal
is certainly worth it. I just want to put hunting
in perspectivein relation to the all the other
damage we do to our environment and how
most people dont seem to care about it.
Hunting should be done correctly! I speak
here personally as well as the standpoint of
the magazine. There is always a way of how

things should be done and how they should
not be done. Any good hunter has a great
respect for animals and it has nothing to
do with the desire to kill. Hunting is in our
nature, and some have more of it running
through their veins than others.
Yes, you could argue that now we should
evolve from our caveman habits, but by the
end of the day it is still in us. A good hunter
knows his tools,be it a gun or a fishing rod.
A good hunter is that which hunts for food,
meaning he will use the whole animal for
consumption. Hunting might also be a necessity to maintain livestock, due to shrunken
habitats or natural predation, even if these
animals are not good for consumption. In
fishing, there are also new approaches like
catch and release or catch, tag and release,
which has demonstrated a positive impact
among fishermen. Since value is added to
habitats and the animal itself, some endangered species actually have a better chance
of survival.
Sane hunters have no interest in
contributing to an animals extinction or
destroying their habitat. It might sound
strange, but I believe that hunters are ultimately protecting animals and their survival
rather than being a threat.
Should children hunt? I think if they have
the right teacher and are under supervision,
why not. I also think that the more you know
about the animals and the tools you use to
hunt, the better your understanding and skills
will be. To use the tools correctly and to and
respect the animals. Cultural differences play
a big role in this question but as always you
can do things wrong or you can do them
right. And if done right I see more benefits in
early education than disadvantages.
I hope that with sharing these thoughts,
we can generate a bit more understanding
for both sides, those who support hunting
and those who are against it. This article
was published because of the argument we
generated with some hunting photos in last
months issue. In six years of the magazine
we never featured hunting, and OutdoorUAE
magazine will not feature hunting articles
apart from our regular fishing articles. Wildlife
in the region is so rare, that there would be
no argument or good reason for hunting in
the region. So we hope that both sides will
continue reading the magazine with exactly
the content we have had in the magazine for
the past years.
Habitually healthy
Paleo Cheesecake
Words By: Chef Patrick Ikinofo
Recipe By: Junior Chef Abhishek Chaudhary
Hey Habitualites,
Chef Patrick here from the Cycle
Bistro; as I was saying last month,
we kicked off our new menu on the
first of August, and although it was
a little rocky to begin with - having
not really knowing the team too well
and trying to push them to their
limits both mentally and physically,
we are slowly getting there, step by
step, shift by shift and one recipe
at a time.
We would like to also thank all our customers and regular guests for all their feedback
the past month as it has really opened our
eyes into what, YOU, the customer really
wants.
Anyway, back to food the team and all
things nice; Id like to introduce one of my
Junior Chefs, Abhishek Chaudhary from the
city of Nawabs, Lucknow, India. His inspiration comes from his mother and the times he
had spent cooking with her back in his family
home on weekends as a child. Hes been with
the company since 2013 and like myself knew
nothing about Paleo before he got here.
Over the past two years he has battled it
out in the dungeons, as it is his first professional kitchen that he has worked in since
leaving college and slowly but surely, he is on
his way to becoming something great.
I like my team to think for themselves
and to try their own recipes and ideas, I still
remember the first time I was granted the
chance to do the daily special in the early

years of my career; it was like being asked to
join the All Blacks Rugby Team or something
like that. The thrill you get when you cook
something that is all yours, it sells and you
get great feedback from your guests is something that really makes you feel like its all
worth it at the end of the day. Especially after
being chased around the kitchen getting told
to hurry up every single second or being told
its not good enough, or your nine-hour shift
turns into a 12 without you even realizing
it, even being on the brink of tears because
your chef seems to be only screaming at you
and no one else: definitely a career that is
only cut out for the strong-minded, eager,
mad and crazy few who dare to get into it.
Anyways after pushing Abhishek day after
day to come up with something for this article he finally came to me one day and said
Chef I want to make a Paleo Cheesecake
with berries, basil and honey. And finally I
thought to myself About time. I told him
to show me the recipe before he went ahead
and then get cracking. After a quick glimpse
over his notes he got stuck in something like
I had never seen before and this was the end
result.
Ingredients:
For the Base

Dates - 500gm
Desiccated coconut - 200gm
Ground almonds - 200gm
Coconut oil - 50mL
For the Filling
Cashew nuts (raw) - 300gm
Coconut cream - 400mL
Coconut milk - 400mL
Juice of 3 lemons
Honey to taste
For the Garnish
Fresh or frozen berries
Basil leaves
Honey
Method:
1. Mix all the base ingredients in a bowl

and bind together until you form a dough
like texture add a little ground almond if it
seems to sticky. Roll out and line your pre
oiled cake or tart tin.
2. For the filling blend all ingredients in
a high speed blender until you reach a
smooth and silk like texture. Fill your lined
cake or tart tin and place in the freezer
overnight. Once frozen remove the cake
from the tin and place on your preferred
serving dish to de-frost.
3. Garnish with berries, toasted cashews,
basil and a drizzle of honey.
The Cycle Bistro

GPS location:
Latitude:
N 25 02.792
Longitude:
E 055 14.384
Phone:
04 425 6555
OUTDOORUAE
39
T R&I E D
TESTED
ODUC
THIS PR
OV
T IS APPR
TDOO
ED BY OU
RUAE
GoPro Hero4 Session

Words + Photos By: Ian Ganderton
The New Hero4 Session brings a

radically new format to the
GoPro range. Gone is the distinctive rectangular format and waterproof casing. Instead it has a very
clean and minimalist cubic design.
I was given one to try and test. To do this,
I took the new toy and my sand bike out
into the desert near Al Qudra. Heres what I
found:
First impression is they have taken just
the lens off the normal cameras and just
removed everything else. I was immediately
impressed. Its so much smaller and feels so
much lighter than anything Ive used before.
Ive been using GoPros for a while and the
Session was immediately put next to the
Hero2 and 3 cameras I have in my bag. The
key to GoPros success in the POV/mountable camera market has been their reliable
excellent image quality, their ease of use
and the number of mounting options readily
available. This last point has always been
the competition killer for me. Other POV
cameras might offer slight improvements in
image quality or techy upgrades like GPS
but in my experience, its the availability of
40
OUTDOORUAE
loads of super easy to use mounting options

that leave the rest of the market behind. A
quick check over of the Session revealed
that this camera takes all these options and
multiplies them by 10.
The Session does not replace the traditional format GoPro, the Hero4 Silver and
Black models are the rectangular format in a
waterproof case. I didnt have the opportunity to do back to back testing of the Session
against these models. Other reviewers have
found the standard models to have very
very slightly if you look closely, better video
image quality compared with the Session
plus they are waterproof to a greater depth
(30 metres as opposed to the Sessions 10
meters).
In testing I found the image quality to be
up to GoPros normal very high standards
but I didnt particularly push it hard in this respect. I was out in the desert in bright sunny
conditions. All cameras work better with lots
of light and this was no exception.
The LCD screen on the normal GoPros
is gone and the various buttons have been
replaced with one obvious button (start
and stop) and one very discreet (Wi-Fi) on
the back. With the waterproof case gone,
I found these had a much better feel even
with gloves on. Operating buttons through
a waterproof case always feels quite vague
and so this is a huge improvement. I had no
moments when I wasnt sure if Id pressed a
button or not. Pressing the camera button
starts the camera and stops the camera
dead simple and perfect for getting great
video while not wasting battery or card
space.
Changing the settings using the buttons
was nowhere near as easy as the standard
format cameras though, but the camera
connected very easily to my phone and the
GoPro app is very good. The reality of the
way I use a POV camera is once I have the

settings I like, Im typically not faffing with
the menus much. If you are a settings faffer
then the GoPro app is going to be a must for
you with the Session or a GoPro Remote as it
also adds the same menu setting
functionality of the normal format with its
LCD screen. I use my remote a lot with my
Hero3.
The huge difference the Session makes
over other Heroes is its mountability. Smaller
and lighter is always easier to mount as it
tucks in out of the way better and wobbles
much less too. Road cyclists will love its small
form factor and its more aero than other
models.
The cube format offers some hugely significant benefits. For instance when mounting GoPros on the side of a motocross or DH
MTB helmet, it tended to need to be stuck
out on an arm. Now the frame can just be
mounted directly to the helmet and the camera rotated in the frame. This is a huge deal
for all side mounting situations and makes
the camera massively more flexible in those
scenarios. Funnily enough in writing this Ive
realised I didnt really experiment much with
this in the testing as Im so used to avoiding

side mounting because the normal GoPro
format doesnt lend its self to this very well.
Note to self explore side mounting more.
In addition to adding easy side mounting,
the small form factor makes mounting possibilities feel a bit boundless. Removing the
waterproof case gets rid of lots of bulk and
the little black cube just seems to tuck very
unobtrusively and neatly everywhere I tried
to put it.
The two mounting options I see people
using most are chest and helmet. Chest
mounted, it felt very out of the way and,
because of the weight reduction, I didnt find
that I needed the straps done up as tightly

as I do with my Hero3 to keep the vibration
reduced. The black cube also doesnt stand
out like a sore thumb in pictures the way the
normal silver in a waterproof case format
does.
Top-mounted on a helmet it feels a lot
lower profile, much more aerodynamic and
less likely to catch on things.
Removing the waterproof casing from the
design has a very big impact on the sound
quality easily available. Ive never been one
to faff with the different backs. I keep the
closed waterproof one on my Hero3 all the
time and just accept that the sound is going
to be unusably muffled in most cases. The
Session has two microphones and the GoPro
designers have done a lot in this area to
make the most of them. I didnt test it because I havent had the camera near the water yet but apparently they have made the
mics to drain quickly. Apparently the camera
will choose between the front and rear mic
to minimise wind noise too. In reviewing
the video after testing, I found the sound
quality was massively better than my Hero3
in its waterproof case but that was obviously
going to be the case. I did get a lot of noise
from the morning wind that was moving lots
of sand around but it was still useable. Its
going to take a bit more testing to see if I
find Im using the sound more in videos and
not just overlaying everything with a sound

track as I normally do now.
So to conclude, Ive got to say I really,
really like this new format GoPro. Its reduced
size and weight, the additional simplicity in
mounting options that come with the cube
shape, the ease of operation with the single
easy to use button, the improved sound, its
all win-win for me.
If you need 30m waterproofness or for
those that want to know they have the best
image quality or the most features or the
easy to faff menu then the GoPro Hero4
Silver and Black options are for you. The Session is the same price as the Silver and some
folks might struggle with the less is more
reasoning on value for money. The Silver
definitely offers a better specification/feature
list and is considered the sweet spot of value
for money by many reviewers.
Im super happy with the simplicity and
efficiency of the Session though. I think this
is a camera that can easily help tell a story of
exciting times and adventures in the wildest
of places.
PRODUCTS
A ROUND-UP OF QUALITY PRODUCTS AVAILABLE RIGHT HERE IN THE UAE
Floaty (for HERO4 Session)

92 AED
395 AED
Available exclusively at approved retailers in September 2015
Available exclusively at all approved retailers
This easy-to-spot flotation wraps around your HERO4 Session

to keep it afloat. Its specially designed to protect your camera,
while also giving you easy access to the shutter button.
Floaty is perfect for worry-free shooting in and around the
water while surfing, snorkeling, wakeboarding and more.
Includes an adhesive anchor and camera tether for added
security in extreme conditions.
This ultra versatile mount can be used three main ways: as

a camera grip, extension arm or tripod. The folding arm is
perfect for POV or follow-cam footage, and makes it easy to
capture selfies without the mount appearing in the shot. When
detached from the arm, the handle doubles as a camera grip.
Stored inside the handle is a lightweight, mini tripod that can
be removed and used on its own or combined with the handle.
Expands to 20 (50.8cm), collapses to 7.5 (19cm).
Alpinestars Viper Air Jacket
Nolan N104 EVO Scovery Helmet
Available at Al Yousuf Motors across the UAE
Available at Al Yousuf Motors across the UAE
This fashionable, street-styled summer jacket features a

mesh-on-mesh structure to offer unsurpassed levels of internal climate control. Pre-curved sleeves with Velcro volume
adjustments, together with versatile V-ring waist fit, make the
Viper highly customizable. The comfort benefits are ramped up
with a removable windproof inner vest lining.
The N104 EVO is an update of the N104 and combines new

technical solutions with improved level of comfort. Its newly designed ventilation system, conceived with the new AirBooster
Technology, now offers better internal climate control in every
condition.
900 AED
42
3-Way
OUTDOORUAE
1,500 AED
Pyrotechnic Aerobatic Display Team

Formed in 2010, the Twister
Aerobatic Team has performed at events
across Europe and the Middle East showcasing the highly efficient Silence Twister
aircraft. The Team is very versatile performing daytime aerial ballets and unique,
sparking evening displays with specially
developed pyrotechnic effects streaming
from the aircrafts wingtips.
Below, you can read all about the two Twister
Aerobatics team and Nite ambassadors
Peter Wells and Chris Burkett:
Peter Wells
Chris Burkett
Chris has been an aviation enthusiast all his

life, and first flew aerobatics in a de Havilland
Chipmunk as an RAF cadet. The Chipmunk
also gave him an introduction to display flying, barnstorming as a member of Captain
Nevilles Flying Circus.
For the last decade Chris has been flying
high performance aerobatic types, winning
several trophies in aerobatic competitions.
His display flying has taken him to shows as
far afield as Bahrain, India and China, performing for major sponsors such as DHL and
Skoda Cars. When he isnt flying a Twister
you may see him flying the G-Force Extra
alongside an identical 40% scale radio-controlled replica.
Joining the Twister Aerobatics Team as
No.2 to Peter gives Chris the challenge and
the thrill of flying close formation aerobatics
just a few metres away from the lead aircraft.
The Twister is a very efficient and responsive
aeroplane which is a delight to fly. Its low
drag and relatively low power make careful
planning, good energy management and
smooth flying very important for delivering a
top quality Twister Aerobatics display.
Chris is also an aerodynamicist by profession; aside from planes hes also involved
in designing the wings on Formula One
cars and the sails for record breaking racing
yachts.
been the first team to perform pyro displays

Twister Aerobatics was my brain child.
in 12 countries including Poland, Italy, the
A miss spent youth spent hanging around
United Kingdom and Spain.
airfields resulted in me becoming a pilot at
Always looking for ways to improve both
a young age and seeing some of the most
our equipment and performance, we have refamous display teams in action.
cently added a belly pack to our pyro display
I can remember thinking one day I will do
long range tank to increase range and also
that.
smoke on the wing tips.
I am a composite aircraft engineer for a
We use our equipment hard and reliving and came across an amazing
quire it to be reliable and sturdy as we
aircraft in 2005 at an air fair and
operate to very high tolerances and
persuaded its designers to let me
failure has never been an option.
build and modify one.
For us, timing is literally everyI built it, converted it to be
thing both being on time but also
aerobatic and certified it, and
during display, split-second timing
so my display career started
and coordination is everything.
flying the beautiful Twister as a
We have the additional probsolo act.
lem of operating in different light
The aircraft has been described
conditions in daytime in the Mediteras a fine example of flying due to
ranean it can be blazing sunshine and
its amazing engineering retractable
Sunderland night show can be almost
undercarriage and beautiful Spitfirein the dark.
like looks but incredible, light
Nite Watches instantly stood out
weight.
for me because they are beautifulProbably the most versatile
ly designed to be easily read both
aircraft on the display circuit, it
during the day and at night.
has amazing range and is very
Their primary function for us is
strong.
to tell the time whilst at the same
I always wanted to be in a team
time being beautifully made and
so I built another one and the
robust.
Twister duo was born.
Chris wears the ICON-201L T100
We are very happy to be associated
One of the most successful
NIGHT VIEW
with Nite as we feel it is a prodteams,
uct that could have been designed
we displayed in every European country
specifically for our requirements.
and have also displayed in Bahrain, China,
Available at
I hope that Nite might one day
Turkmenistan and the United Arab Emirates.
Instagram: @almekshah
make a panel mounted version as I
The duo has averaged about 50 displays
Facebook: www.facebook.com/almekshah
would have one in every plane.
per year.
We have had to evolve to stay at the top
Mobile:+971 55 9898954
Peter wears the ICON-209L T100
and so developed the pyro display, we have
T R&I E D
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Words By: Samantha Cadwallader
The newly launched GHST run

top is 100% engineered from
2XUs industry leading X LITE PRO
- the worlds lightest specialist
running fabric through wet and dry
conditions alike.
It is no wonder that when this stylishly
sleek tee entered Sport In Lifes doors
that a friendly fight ensued for testing the
samples. You see, we are three avid athletes
and extremely privileged to work with some
of the most prestigious and technical brands
worldwide; 2XU is one of them.
While the Australian-born brand is
well-known for its leading compression
apparel, it produces many other high
performance sports garments and proudly
lists the Australian Institute of Sport as their
research and development partner.
I remember the day Team Sport In Life
passed the barely-there GHST top around
for close inspection and a fabric feel. We
certainly thought it felt lush and as light as
a feather, but how would it perform in our
extreme desert conditions? Testing the top
in the heat was not going to be a problem,
but the wet test seemed a little tricky.
Last month, I headed to the Swiss
mountains for arguably one of the
best-known trail races in the world the
31km Sierre-Zinal trail run. As luck would
have it (or not), it rained. I had also packed
the GHST as my race gear. After all, who
wouldnt pack a run top weighing just
86gsm and has runners performing faster
and freer than ever in their intelligent
Singlet? Being my first off-road race, I
thought I would take all the help I could get.
I loved the race and the top! The GHST
does exactly what the name suggests it
feels invisible and you hardly know it is
there. Even in the rain, I did not feel heavy
and sluggish like I normally would from a
saturated run top that annoyingly sticks to
your stomach. The GHST remained a lot
This is how we roll Our GHST guys both ran sub

40 minutes in the sticky NAS 10km race conditions
Mountain goat: Race-ready with the GHST

Singlet and Newton Running BOCO AT
lighter and dried far quicker than any other

top I had previously worn in wet conditions.
Minimal seams ensured it was comfortable
and most importantly, no chafing occurred.
If you cannot find an ice bath then use 2XUs compression
Also, the reflective trims are great for safety. products to help you recover faster so you can train harder
The fact that the revolutionary knit
for the Nad Al Sheba 10km race and was
structure of X LITE PRO comes with ICE X
equally impressed with its performance.
embedded into the yarn to reflect UV rays;
Running with the 2XU GHST sleeveless
keeping athletes cool, protected and
shirt feels really light and ventilated. It was
ventilated thanks to high level moisture
the best choice for the NAS
management, makes it a
10Km race conditions, which
no-brainer as essential
saw extreme heat and
run kit for our region. Here,
humidity. I also use it for
anything that helps cool
running in the sand dunes
the body temperature is
around Dubai. With the
definitely worth investing in.
increased rate of perspiration
The 2XU GHST t-shirt is
it is critical that our clothing
quite simply the best
doesnt get heavily soaked
running top I have ever
with sweat, which is why I
used. In Dubai we have
always choose the 2XU GHST.
ridiculous heat and
Its comfortable and performs
humidity and the last thing
well in such conditions. It is
you need to worry about
also my go-to piece when
is the performance of your
chasing PBs!
kit. Regardless of how
If you aspire to run like a
hot you are or how much
pro, then start by looking
you sweat, the GHST top
like one. After all, if you look
performs. It feels light and
good and feel great you
cool, it does not cling and
A 12km run completed and no
inevitably perform well.
it does not let you down.
evidence of any sweat patches
Happy running!
Whats more, I have been
thanks to 2XUs GHST
using the same two tops
about four times a week for the last year and
Garment Features
they still look like new. The quality of the top
Worlds lightest running singlet through dry
is exceptional and X LITE PRO represents
and high-sweat conditions alike
the epitome of technical sports fabrications
Minimal seams and 86gsm X LITE PRO fabric
for warm weather conditions. Said multi Reflective detailing and trims
ple Kona Ironman finisher and Sport In Life
COO Simon Marshall.
Available at Adventure HQ in Dubai and Abu
Qualified nutritionist and endurance
Dhabi and GO Sport Mall of the Emirates
sports enthusiast Gustavo Netto, who
230 AED (GHST singlet)
manages our GU Energy, MuleBar
260 AED (GHST short sleeve shirt)
and Aqualyte brands, chose the 2XU GHST
PRODUCTS
Millet BAIKAL 750 Sleeping Bag
Left Zip
Left Zip
425 AED/QAR, 46.2 OMR
Available exclusively at all GO Sport stores
Trekking or hiking. It is the bag for summer nights out in the

open. This synthetic, two-season model manages wet
conditions very well.
Two-season mountaineering, synthetic-fill sleeping bag

manages wet conditions really well.
Specifications:
Comfortable mummy shape.
Synthetic-fill and polyamide shell for insulation from cold and wet.
Double-side zip and inside anti-cold flap, Inside pocket.
Hood with draw cord.
Left hand zip
Capacity: 3.5L
Weight: 0.770kg
Comfort temperature: 10C
Limit temperature: 6C
Extreme temperature: -6C
Specifications:
Double-side zip and inside anti-cold flap, inside pocket.
Left hand zip
Capacity: 10L
Weight: 1.550kg
Comfort temperature: 1C
Limit temperature: -4C
Extreme
temperature: -21C
Fabrics
Fill: SuperMix Fibre
3D mix of hollow silicone-coated fibres
Top: 1x100g/m. Bottom: 1x100g/m
Fabrics:
3D mix of hollow
silicone-coated fibres
Top: 2x150g/m. Bottom:
1x200g/m
LifeStraw Portable Water Filter
Left Zip

This two-season trekking and hiking sleeping bag which is
water-repellent with synthetic insulation ensures the greatest
comfort when sleeping in the wild.
55 AED
Available at all Adventure HQ stores

Each LifeStraw can filter up to 264 gallons of water and stows
easily in a pocket, or your backpack. LifeStraw is also perfect
for hiking, camping, or whenever your travels take you to
remote areas.
Specifications:
Double side zip and inside anti-cold flap, inside pocket.
Left or right hand zip, combinable.
Capacity: 8.5L
Weight: 1.172kg
Comfort
temperature: 5C
Limit temperature: 0C
Extreme temperature: -16C
Fabrics:
3D mix of hollow silicone-coated fibres
Top: 2x100g/m. Bottom: 1x150g/m
OUTDOORUAE
45
PRODUCTS
Nextorch Scorpion Detector
Komperdell Trekking Sticks
Nextorch Eco Star UN Headlamp is an ultra-bright, white

ultraviolet LED headlamp. The UV LED is specially designed for
finding scorpions.
Trekking poles have gone from a seldom seen item to near

mandatory. These trekking poles offer better balance during
hikes in rugged backcountry terrain and reduce stress on your
body almost by 25%.
Newton Runnings Aha Neutral

Model for Men and Women
Introducing two new GU Energy flavours!
85 AED
550 AED
GU Roctane Energy Gel - Sea Salt

Chocolate and GU Energy Gel - Big Apple
Available at Adventure HQ, Dubai and Abu Dhabi,

Optimal Fitness and Beyond Fitness
Available at Spinneys and major sports outlets
You have heard about Newton shoes, you wondered about

them, and now its time to experience them. With a soft 5-lug
P.O.P 3 platform built on a foam-filled chamber, a six millimetre
drop, and a seamless upper, you have nothing to lose, and an
inevitable Aha! moment to gain. This shoe is also a great
compliment to P.O.P 1 shoes if youre looking for a recovery or
easy day shoe.
Perfect For: Active-minded, casual runners looking for a
familiar, all-around shoe to keep them committed to coming
back for more.
Likes: Performing with versatility at all distances for both new
and experienced runners.
Ride: Familiar and forgiving A subtle and inviting ride with
some extra pep.
46
395 AED
OUTDOORUAE
15 AED and 8 AED
GU gels are energy-dense calories in a portable packet

perfect for daily training and competition. Created for
demanding training and racing, GU Roctane Energy Gel stands
out from the original GU Energy Gel with more sodium,
an electrolyte that aids in hydration and even more
branched-chain amino acids (leucine, valine, and isoleucine) that
reduce mental fatigue and decrease muscle damage. The amino
acid beta-alanine helps promote formation of the
intramuscular buffer
carnosine, while ornithine
alpha-ketoglutarate helps
promote muscle repair.
The 100-calorie packets
contain carbohydrates
(maltodextrin and
fructose) that use
non-competing
pathways to help
maximize carbohydrate
absorption and
utilization while
diminishing stomach
distress. #GUFORIT
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Enjoy Life
Today
(Because Yesterday is Gone and
Tomorrow is Never Promised)
Words By: Linda Turcerova Delgado
What can possibly be better

than to enjoy your free time with
friends and loved ones doing the
sport you like the most?
Let me tell you about that.
Being an outdoorsy water person, I felt
kind of down lately because summer in the
United Arab Emirates is very hot and there
is very little you can do outside. If you want
to go to the beach, you need to wake up at
crazy hours (like 5:00 a.m.) or you need to
travel outside of the country. For me, being
the mom of a nine-month old child, neither
are suitable options. But thanks to GO Sport
and the fact that I work for OutdoorUAE, I
could steal one morning for myself. I had the
perfect excuse to arrange a babysitter then
I called my crazy friends and hooray! I was
ready to meet them on the beach!
As I love paddling I have the chance to try
different types and brands of Stand-Up Paddleboards. They come in all sorts of shapes
and sizes the classic hard type, inflatable
and the modular snap-tap take-apart type we
have now the Point65 Rum Runner.
Into the Water

Packs Well and Quick
The Rum Runner promises to fit into almost

any car. First we tried to fit it in the smallest one a Suzuki Swift. We managed to
pack it tightly into the trunk and backseat.
Although we lost all of the space at the back
and the passenger seat was jammed right up
to the dashboard, it saved time and money
installing a roof rack and strapping down a
traditional hard, longboard. It easily fits into
most small cars as well.
Closer Look While Setting Up
The split of this SUP is possible due to snaptap-take-apart system with top clips on each
side of the body where joints are created.
The straps look very durable and waterfriendly and will last a long time. I would
imagine those would also be the first replacement parts, and with only two screws per
strap, this would be an easy task for anyone
with a screwdriver and two brain cells. The
rest of the body is sealed in a layer of durable Polyethylene apart from the watertight
compartment front and we have an awesome feature here that no other SUP has a
sealable hatch for basically anything you may
want to store.
Another cool feature is a retractable fin at
the back. I also found two beverage cups/
fishing rod holders which is an interesting addition. Other features such as draining plugs
for draining and handles on all sides actually could make this SUP more of a hybrid
kayak. It would seem it is built for a SUP feel
and performance but with the comforts and
stability of a kayak.
We have assembled the Rum Runner on the

sand but in retrospect, it is much easier to do
it in calm water. The pieces, although none
being heavier than seven kilos, are light and
are easier to handle in the sea. The clips are
super easy to use even for three blondies.
Another super-convenient feature of this
SUP due to the water launch design of
the back, is you can literally slide your body
up onto the SUP and not risk falling when approaching from the side if you havent mastered this move yet. This feature will make
you look like a pro even when youre using
the Rum Runner for the first time! Very cool.
Transition between kneeling to standing
is also very comfortable; this SUPs stability
is due to its PE composition and the flat
kayak body design. All pieces are rigid and
hollow, yet provide a stable footprint on the
surface of water. Central section includes EVA
padding with cool design cushioned to support you in any position.
Load testing (i.e. three chicks trying not to
fall off at the same time) revealed that you
could get two adults and one kiddo on deck
for comfortable small to medium distance
paddles. The Rum Runner is stable enough
for SUP yoga, sun tanning, performs well
in speed tests in comparison to hard SUPs
however do not expect to be winning any
races with it. For most hobbyists, this is not
the main goal anyway so for recreational use,
the Rum Runner stands well. It also is quite
affordable for what it is promising to deliver
performance, convenience, versatility and
fun.
The Point65 Rum Runner is available in
two colours blue and red at any GO
Sport store. Price for 11.5 foot is 1,895
AED (205.00 OMR) and for the 12.5
foot, its 1,995 AED (216.80 OMR)
PRODUCTS
RFiD Phone Wallet
Lure 11.5
Available at all Modells Sporting Goods
Available at Adventure HQ and Al Yousuf Showrooms
The Lifeventure Digital Slim Case has a built in RFID blocking

pocket on the inside of the case which will prevent any
potential thieves scanning your cards.
The Lure 11.5 is the Lure 10s bigger brother designed for
longer paddling trips on rivers, lakes and oceans with more
capacity and additional deck space.
The Digital Slim case has

generous dimensions and will
accommodate most smart
phones, cameras and MP3
players. The case has a soft,
brushed polyester, padded
and quilted lining which
will prevent your products
from getting damaged or
scratched.
The kayak also comes with a variety of unique features seen

on Lure series kayaks including a removable multi-level extra
wide Patent Pending Gravity Seat, Feelfrees patented wheel in
the keel and Uni-Track system. The Gravity Seat offers a wide
range of seat heights, which is adjusted with the simple
function of a lever and is removable. What really sets the
Gravity Seat apart is the ability to sit flush on the deck of the
kayak when additional stability and a more efficient paddling
position is needed for longer distances.
Vango Aero Mat, Standard, Citron
PARAKITO Kids Bands
Available at GO Sport, Adventure HQ

and Modells Sporting Goods
Available at Adventure HQ, GO Sport, Golf House

and many more retailers and merchant websites
(store locator at www.mapyr.com)
50 AED
345 AED
New for 2015, the Aero uses lightweight materials to insulate

the user and reduce the weight of the mat at no sacrifice to
comfort or warmth. It also implements a non- slip print
ensuring your sleeping bag stays on the mat, the Aero is ideal
for backpackers who wish for lightweight comfort.
7,450 AED
The Lures super-stable 36 wide hull paired with a padded

standing platform gives you the option to paddle or cast in
either the sitting or standing position whether fishing inland
waters or wide open oceans this kayak
fears no water.
89 AED (1 band + 2 pellets)
September means back-to-school and also back to outdoor

camps and activities. PARAKITO have recently launched the
kids version of their famous bands. Number one natural
prevention against mosquito bites, PARAKITO refillable bands
offer a unique combination: natural ingredients, patented
technology, fun designs for your little ones.
The PARAKITO pellet is soaked with essential oils. You just
have to insert the pellet in the wristband. It doesnt touch the
skin of your child.
Suitable for children three years and above.
48
OUTDOORUAE
The Beginners Safety

Guide to Motocross Racing
There is a simple rule in racing:
dress for the crash, not for the ride.
Body Armor
Boots
The more gear you have on, the more likely

you are to go home sore then to ride in an
ambulance.
Motocross racing is not a fashion show.
Amateur riders, especially young beginning riders should be more concerned with
wearing as much protection as possible,
than with trying to look like a pro. Buying
safety gear is something that a professional
dealer like Al Yousuf Motors can really help
with. Buying your gear online might not be
the best idea since sizes on gear vary a great
deal and are not always accurate. Buying locally will allow you to try on the gear before
buying and also can help you if there is a
warranty problem later.
Helmet
Also known as Chest and Back protectors. It

is important to learn to ride with these from
the beginning since they can take some getting used to. These can help protect from an
impact injury by spreading the impact over
a wider area. They also protect from roost
(hard clods or small rocks thrown up from
tires). There is a wide selection of makes and
models available across all Al Yousuf Motors
Showrooms.
Clothing
There should be no compromises made

when selecting a helmet. If you have a $10
head, you buy a $10 helmet. This is the single most important piece of protection you
will buy. A helmet should be snug going on
and off but not so tight that it gets uncomfortable. There are different DOT and SNELL
certification ratings that dealers can explain
to you. When you strap on the helmet make
sure the strap is a snug-fit so in the case of a
crash, the helmet doesnt come off.
Goggles
These should always be worn. Get used to

them when you practice and you will feel
naked without them later. Try different
brands on while wearing your helmet to find
the ones that you are most comfortable.
To race, motocross boots that cover the

ankles is required. This is necessary to
prevent hyperextension of the foot which
causes injury. When you buy Motocross
boots it is important to take the time to
break-in the boots properly. If you try to race
with them before they are, you will have a
hard time working the controls on your bike
which could result in an accident. Hence,
it is always a good idea to get the boots in
advance while preparing for the motocross
season. If you are buying a pair for your
child, get them a little big, but not too big,
to allow for growth. Taking care of your
boots will ensure that they last a long time.
YOUR BIKE OR ATV

It is important to carefully maintain your
machine. Inspect it carefully and look for any
sharp edges or protruding bolts that can be
eliminated to prevent them from catching
on clothing or injuring a rider. Make sure
grips are glued or wired on so that they will
not come loose while riding. Keep control
cables lubed. Do not run broken clutch or
brake levers. ATVs over 90cc must be used
with nerf bars.
Long sleeve jerseys are required to
race along with the entire set
consisting of matching pants
and gloves. Additional safety is
provided by BNS (Bionic Neck
Support), elbow/knee protectors.
You are NOW ready to hit the track!
OUR EXPERTS
Desert Ready Diva!

Words + Photos by: Marina Bruce
Marina and her husband

Neil have overlanded extensively
throughout the UAE and Oman;
they accompanied Mike Nott on his
2013 Oman Odyssey (OutdoorUAE
#35, November 2013) which gave
us Routes 17 thru 20 in the
second edition of the Advanced
Off-Road Routes UAE and Oman.
Their travels have taken them to
some pretty remote spots, so
since this editions theme is
equipment, OutdoorUAE asked
Marina about her car and what she
takes with her for such a trip.
Car Modifications
I have never seen the need to add performance modifications to a car a good driver
will take a standard car much further than a
bad one will take one with extra horsepower
or a larger engine transplant said Marina,
she goes on Having said that, it pays to
protect the cars body, particularly the underside.
1. Bash Plate
Protecting the underside of your engine is an

absolute must for all cars when offroading.
The minimal cost will be more than covered
when you decide to sell your car.
2. KONI Sports Shocks
Further protect your car by fitting strong

sports shocks, with bump stops too where
appropriate
8. Ghutra
Traditional Arabic headwear can double up

as a sling or a tourniquet, or you can also use
it as intended to keep the sun from your
head and neck
9. Phone Charger
3. King Springs Linear
Marina and Neil have tried a couple of

brands of springs and their favourites so
far are the King linear springs. A bit more
bouncy than progressive springs, these are
expected to give a longer life.
Getting stuck is inevitable when off-roading, and a winch concealed behind the front
bumper of Marinas Patrol makes recoveries
quick and easy.
4. Warn XP360 Winch

with Synthetic Cable
Reliable, fast and if the synthetic cable breaks

it will fall to the ground, minimising the
chance of damage or injuries.
When asked if she kept a first aid kit, Marina replied Yes of course - I have a bag of
absolute essentials packed and ready to go
at any time it is always with me on off-road
drives or long on-road drives.
5. Satphone and Charger
She tells us that they drove for four years

without one but after an accident with a
camel occurred out of GSM range they took
the plunge and bought one. It does not cost
much to maintain the card and is very handy
if a wheel falls off your car 300km from the
nearest town in the Empty Quarter of Oman.
6. First Aid Kit
A no-brainer and since burns are the most

popular off-roading injury, it is ideal to carry
specialist burns plasters as well as eyewash
and eyedrops for the second most common
injury - sand in the eyes.
7. Silicone Tape
First aid for cars this does not stick to

anything except itself, making it ideal as a
temporary fix for burst pipes or hoses.
50
OUTDOORUAE
When you head out to the desert there is

no way of knowing how long you will be out
there, so it pays to keep one or two chargers
in case your phone battery goes flat.
We keep all the small stuff in storage
boxes, tied down securely. There is so much
weight in the stuff we carry. If it were loose, it
could do serious injury should the car come
to a halt suddenly.
10. Valve Stem Remover
The quickest and easiest way to deflate tyres.

You have to concentrate when doing this if
you let the tyre go down too much, you will
need to dig out your compressor. Carry half
a dozen valve stems just in case one should
fly out when it is being removed.
11. Two Tyre Gauges

Manual and Digital
It is a good idea to carry both and if the reading is at odds with the way the tyre looks then
you have something to cross-check it with!
12. Hi-Lift Jack,

Baseplate and Lifters
Popped out tyre? Lift the wheel clear of the

sand using the hi-lift, clean the rim, remove
the valve and use your compressor to pop
the tyre back on. Very quick it is possible to
reseat a pop-out in as little as seven minutes.
13. Basha
One of the smallest and most versatile pieces

of kit we carry. Shelter, temporary desert
garage, windbreak, stretcher or something
to keep the dew off you if sleeping outdoors,
this British army invention from the 1950s
can be bought from United Kingdom military
surplus stores or off eBay.
14. Ratchet Strap
Sometimes you cannot avoid carrying extra

fuel inside the car; this should always be in
compressors over the years and this high-capacity one can air up both their cars in about
10 minutes.
25. Two Synthetic Shackles
These can be quite expensive but they are

so much more versatile than their metal
counterparts. Use them to join snatch straps
together when a very long pull is required.
If they break then there will not be a flying
metal missile. Add a ribbon to them so you
can identify your own.
metal cans, and securely tied down using a
ratchet strap.
15. Cable Ties, Duct Tape

and WD40
This is a cheap and essential emergency

repair kit never leave home without them!
16. Bungee Cords
Used to tie down everything in the car

(except fuel cans) or attach the basha to the
vehicles for shelter
17. Gloves
You never know when you will have to touch

a hot car so garden/work gloves are important (see first aid kit: Specialist Burns Plaster)
18. Tyre Wrench
Always take a second one you never notice

the original is not where it should be until you
need it!
19. Seasickness Bands
Not everyone travels well and motion sickness can ruin a great day in the sand. These
are available from Boots the Chemist and
cost only 25 AED.
20. Rug/Blanket
When you need to check under your car have

a rug or blanket handy will protect you from
scalding hot or (less likely) wet sand.
21. Window breaker/seatbelt cutter
Accidents do happen from time to time when

off-road and a seatbelt cutter is safer than a
Stanley knife to cut a jammed seatbelt.
22. Tubeless Repair Kit
It is easy to repair punctures when offroad

with this kit, remember to check the tyre
pressure a short time after the repair to ensure it is holding.
We asked Marina if she ever got stuck. It
has been known to happen she says with a
wink. Everyone gets stuck, even the best
of drivers so always travel with a second car
and some kit to get you out. Even though
we have a winch on one car, we still take a
selection of ropes and shackles, just in case
the winch should fail, or the rope is not long
enough.
23. Shovel Large
The small folding shovels move so little

sand compared to effort expended so we
buy lightweight gardening shovels from a
home and garden store. Mark these in some
way so they wont get mixed up with other
peoples.
24. Compressor ARB Twin

Portable Complete with Extra-Long
Hose and Inflator
Marina and Neil have tried many
26. Two Rated Shackles Metal
Sometimes recovery points have sharp edges

so you need to carry metal shackles in additional to the synthetic ones. Always use rated
shackles (safe weight load will be stamped on
them) you can paint them in your favourite
colour to save them getting mixed up.
27. Snatch Strap
You should never use a tow rope when

extracting a vehicle from sand, instead use a
snatch strap. These stretch when under pressure and your vehicle is snatched from the
stuck using kinetic force much gentler and
safer than a towrope.
28. Viking Rope
These look like ships ropes and they are

generally short with a lot of elasticity. It is
rumoured the name came from the person
who made the first one a Swedish man who
worked in shipping in Dubai.
29. Old Winch Rope
Winch ropes do not last forever but do keep

your old synthetic ones. They are great to
extend the reach of your winch rope, and can
also be used to tie off and slowly release a
car stuck at a dangerous angle; and, as they
are old, they are expendable.
Surely your Patrol must be full by now
we joke, but Marina still has a few essentials
to add.
30. GPS Garmin

Montana (276C for back-up)
We load satellite imagery before we head

out to the desert, as well as previous tracks,
routes and waypoints for the area we are
going to. The Montana saves up to 200
tracks and unlimited waypoints.
31. GoPro Hero3
Always a must when you are overlanding, you

are driving so far and for so long you dont
want to stop every five minutes for pictures.
32. Garden Spray (pump type)
Did you know wet skin cools down 26 times

faster than dry skin? If you have to get out of
your car for prolonged periods when it is hot
spray yourself with water and you will be so
much more comfortable.
33. Coolbox
The Cool Ice keeps food cold for a couple
of days, even in desert temperatures. A

fridge is also a good thing to have but they
are up to 10 times the cost of a coolbox.
34. Jump Leads
Batteries in the UAE tend to fail with little or

no warning so it is worth carrying jump leads
when camping to ensure both our cars will
start in the morning.
35. Spare Fluids for Car
Make sure they are bagged and secured in

an upright position!
36. Toolkit
A variety of pliers, hammer, screwdrivers,

adjustable spanners. Could come in handy
(the Omani army used Marina and Neils tools
to repair and replace her lost wheel see
Satphone and charger).
37. Oven Bags
There is nothing like hot food in the winter,

but we never have time to stop and cook.
The answer comes by way of good planning
and oven bags (the long ones you use for
fish). Stick up to three pies or some plum
cake into the bag, seal well with the provided
tie and wedge into a small space in your engine. Cook at 4800cc for two hours and they
should be done to perfection! Also works
well with pre-cooked pizza and onion bajees.
The person who introduced Marina to cooking by engine always uses foil but she thinks
oven bags keep out more sand!
Plus
Tents, camping chairs, table, foam mattresses, blankets, pillows, groundsheets,

windbreakers
BBQ, camp kitchen, trivet and kettle
Battery light and torches
We can literally fill two cars with all
our kit when we are on one of our
grand expeditions!
OUR EXPERTS
Dive Arabia:
The Essentials
Words + Photos By: Jake Lyle
Its not often that you encounter

an area that offers a multitude of
different underwater conditions and
environments that can perfectly suit
any divers needs - underwater conditions that cater to those who like
warmer waters or cooler waters,
cave dives or reef dives, drift dives
or static water dives.
Much of this underwater domain is hidden
from the rest of the world, preserved and
sheltered, and much of it is still yet to be
explored. Its spread across numerous bodies of water, including The Persian Gulf, The
Red Sea, The Indian Ocean and The Gulf of
Oman. This area is the Middle East.
Although this variation and diversity offers
fantastic and unique diving experiences, it
also requires the correct equipment that can
make the experience much more enjoyable
and a lot safer. Although the essentials to
Scuba Diving are obvious (Mask, Regulator,
BCD, Tank and Fins), the Middle Eastern
waters are unique, and have their own characteristics that require careful consideration.
Within the waters of the Middle East, there
is much to be enjoyed from large and exciting marine life, to mysterious crystal clear
caves. By having the right equipment, the
experience will be enriched and enhanced.
Similarly, like all dive locations, there are

hazards that are scattered throughout these
waters, which range from devious discarded
fishing nets, to strong and deceptive currents that are capable of separating divers
from their groups, and groups from their
dive boats. But all such problems have solutions, and a few of those are outlined here.
As every resident of a Middle Eastern
country is fully aware, the area gets its fair
share of sunlight and humidity, often seeing the air temperature peak above 50c.
Although the sea doesnt share the exact
same temperatures as the air, the temperature of the water (nearer to the surface) can
reach over 36c in some parts of the Persian
Gulf. To put that into perspective, the average recommended shower temperature is
between 41c and 48c, making the surface of the water just a few degrees lower
than this. With that in mind, in the summer
months the ideal exposure suit to use would
be a short wetsuit, with 2mm thickness.
Although the temperatures within the first
few metres of the surface of the water may
be topping 30c, as you descend below,
the temperatures alter greatly. It may be
tempting to just wear swimming shorts and
a rash guard instead of a wetsuit, but people
often can misjudge what the temperature
will be like deeper below the water, and
assess their exposure suit of choice only on
surface temperature. A wetsuit also protects
a diver from potential cuts or scrapes from
corals, the unlikely event of a jellyfish sting,
or brushes against a sharp sunken object,

which are especially important if youre
diving in one of the many shipwrecks scattered throughout the Arabian seas, making
a wetsuit the better choice. Alternatively, in
the winter months, both the air and water
temperatures in the region drop quite dramatically, and the water specifically tends to
hang around the 19 - 21c mark. With that
in mind, a long 3-4mm wetsuit would be the
better choice, making you comfortable both
on the surface and underwater.
As mentioned, the strength of currents can
vary in certain areas throughout the Middle
Eastern seas and because of that, you want
to be prepared. There are a number of precautions you can take in the event of strong
currents in order to guarantee a safe dive.
The first thing to do is to ensure that you
have a durable and strong pair of fins, with
no rips or tears and with strong clips and
clasps (if the fins are the kind that strap onto
booties). Although it may sound peculiar,
make sure the fins are made for diving. Too
often I have seen amateur divers 25 metres
underwater with the type of swimming fins
on that are used to teach children and toddlers to swim in paddling pools. Although a
difference between the two types may not
at first seem obvious, when a strong current
moves in whilst youre submerged below the
water with 30kg of equipment on your back,
and you have a pair of paddling fins on your
feet, the difference will be made very clear,
very fast. Keep in mind that strong currents
arent always a bad thing, as they can make
for a tranquil and relaxing drift dive, where
no actual swimming is required and you just
act as a passenger to the flow of water and
take in the surroundings (my favourite type
of dive).
As an extra precautionary measure, an
emergency surface marker buoy can be
a good investment. Its simply an orange
rolled up tube that can be inflated and sent
to the surface in the event of you being
separated from your group or vessel that will

alert them to your position. It easily fits into
your BCD (Buoyancy Control Device the
jacket that the tank is strapped to) pocket,
is easy to use and when the time comes,
it is incredibly effective. More commonly,
the emergency surface marker buoy is used
outside of emergencies, when divers simply
want to tell their boat where they are so they
can be picked up once they have surfaced
(instead of a long strenuous swim).
Another common hazard that haunts the
Arabian seas is the plethora of discarded
fishing nets. After oil, fish are the most
valuable resource that the region exports.
In 2014, Omans volume of catch topped
over 200,000 tons, which means a lot fishing
nets would have been put to use. Unfortunately, it is a frequent occurrence that some
of these nets are discarded onto reefs or
suspended in the water, either purposefully
or accidentally. Such occurrences have devastating consequences. These nets can trap
coral, marine species and even the occasional diver. This is why a dive knife is another
Middle Eastern sea essential. A discarded
net can be one of the greatest dangers to
a diver, causing panic, entanglement, or
sometimes even worse. Thats why having a
small dive knife with a sharp blade and quick
release strapped to the outside of your leg
or hooked onto your BCD is of paramount
importance. It increases your chances of
being able to disentangle yourself exponentially, or even disentangle a fellow diver.
Although not a hazard, the green water
colour that frequents the seas in the area

(Dubai especially), is a major obstacle to any
photography aficionados. This green tint can
often spoil the colours of the different corals
and landscapes underwater, and make it
very hard to capture the vibrancy that is so
unique to the area. For the many underwater
cameras that dont offer the setting to adjust
the hue and saturation (GoPros especially),
a magenta camera filter works wonders on
the colour, and is a sure fire way around this
obstacle. Its a small screen that fits onto
the outside of the case on top of the lens
and adds the colours that are missing and
removes that fluorescent green that is so
abundant. This green water colour is more
frequent closer to the coast and at shallower
depths, but further and deeper out, this
green turns to blue a magnificent blue in
areas like the offshore reefs in the Red Sea
or the northern side of Musandam. This too
however can work against your photos and
Photo: Quincy Dein Rider:

Kai LennyQuincy Dein Rider: Kai Lenny
Photo:
Precisely intuitive.
the blue can replace the other colours that

the reefs and landscapes are showing off.
The solution to this is a red filter. Similar to
the magenta filter, but a darker shade, this
works in the same way, and improves the
quality and colour of photos dramatically.
The hazards and obstacles outlined here
are important and are not to be ignored.
However, after measures are taken for
preparation and prevention, the risks that
these hazards pose are minimised, leaving only one more box to tick to enjoy
the dive. Diving in the Middle East is truly
a unique experience, and it offers many
things that the rest of the world does not.
And while there are certain hazards in these
waters, they are greatly outweighed by the
abundance of beauty and excitement below
the surface. From beautiful corals to giant
Whale Sharks, the diving in the Middle East
is awe-inspiring, so get out there and dive.
Just equip yourself properly to do so.
Precisely intuitive.
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Its overall structure and ability to pivot
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QATAR EXPLORER
Make a SPLASH
in Doha, Qatar
Watersports and Waterparks
Words By: Eulogy van Dyk
Photos By: Erlanka Paquet
We all know by now that the best

place to spend your time during
summer is either on top of or in the
water! Yes its hot of course, and
we know that it is not so tempting to spend time outside, but the
waters of Doha does promise you
some fun in the sun, which makes it
all worthwhile.
Unfortunately there are not many natural
and public beaches in Doha to cool down
during the hot summer months. So if you
dont want to spend your cash on a hotel
swimming pool or drive all the way to the
other side of the country for a day at the
beach, we have a great alternative for you.
How about a quick splash combined
with some watersport activities to get the
adrenaline pumping again? We have listed
three recommended places to visit:
Visit Aqua Park Qatar
The first ever theme park in Qatar offers
action-packed water fun! With more than 15

adrenaline-charged water attractions, the
Aqua Park has all the ingredients that would
allow you to set the tempo for your day out.
Catch a wave in the wave pool (which
has six different patterns and intensities of
artificial waves), drift off in the surf or let
the waves carry you away! Test your fear of
heights on the four-storey high water slide,
or ride the boomerang if you dare! This
include a series of hair-razing twist and turns
in the dark with surprising dips and curves to
ensure this gets your heart rate rising.
But if you are looking for a more relaxed
time, grab a tube and enjoy a lazy river
cruise meandering around the park. Or cool
off in the Lagoon Pool with a soothing massage in the Jacuzzi Cave.
The park is the perfect playground for
families and friends that would like to enjoy
a day out in the sun! It is also good to know
that there are lifeguards on duty but of
course the responsibility lays with oneself
first.
The park is located 30km outside of Doha
and open from 10:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m. on
weekdays, with a special Ladies Day on
Tuesdays from 2:00 p.m. 10:00 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, the park is open from
10:00 a.m. 10:00 p.m. and Saturday are
Family Days from 10:00 a.m. 7:00 p.m.
Visit Katara Beach
Conveniently located in Doha, spanning just

over 1.5km, you will find this natural beach.
A perfect setting for either a relaxing day
of bathing in the sun or doing the exact
opposite; testing out all their action-packed
beach activities.
Water-skiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, parasailing, jet ski and banana rides.

Windsurfing, Hobie Cats, sea paddleboats
or kayaking pick and choose your favourite
activity and go out and play! All the activities vary in price and works on a first come,
first served basis. It is also good to know
that you can take lessons in some of the activities, but pre-booking for this is required.
There is also a childrens play area as well
as child-friendly watersport activities to do.
The beach is open during summer from 2:00
p.m. 6:00 p.m. Please note that there is a
strict dress code for ladies and men at the
beach more information can be found on
their website about this.
Call a Friend Privately

owned Speedboats
Then of course, it is not always what you

know, but who you know. Some expats
and locals alike invest in a speedboat during
their time in Qatar so you can go out and
make a splash whenever you like! There are
three main marinas where you can moor
your boat in Doha, one at the Marriot Hotel
and the other at The Pearl, Porto Arabia and
at Qanat Quartier beach. So when you are
lucky enough to meet someone that owns a
boat, pack in your cooler box with ice cold
drinks and some snacks, watersport equipment, lifejackets and head out for some fun
in the sun!
No matter what time of year you will always find something to do in Qatar! And the
hot summer months which limits our other
activities creates the perfect opportunity to
explore the water adventures Qatar has to
offer. No excuses come and visit!
Katara Beach - parasailing
Aqua Park Qatar - Lazy River
Contact Details:
Aqua Park Qatar
www.aquaparkqatar.com
+974 449 05872/73/78
Katara Beach
www.katara.net
+974 449 05872/73/78
Call a Friend :D
www.facebook.com
ai
adv
e n t u re
sh
Show 2015
Dubai
.c
w
o
OUR EXPERTS
Casting Far
from Shore
Words + Photos by: Kit Belen
Winter is coming and with it,

the possibility of longer fishing
hours and road trips to new fishing
areas that are just too hot to fish
in the summers.
The past few years, I have been quite tangled with fly fishing and kayak fishing. While
I still love those types of fishing, I have been
increasingly involved in all sorts of shorebased fishing. The convenience of fishing
a walk away from your car appeals to me a
lot because of my work schedule and it also
gives me more time to fish with my little girl.
This coming winter, well be exploring
places where it might not be practical to
take a kayak or a small boat and would be
better explored with lures, and in some
instances with bait, fished from shore. Fishing from shore and with the need to cover
more ground, this type of fishing will mostly
involve long rods that make very long casts
to deeper water and covering more water a
possibility.
Blast Off
Its very practical to use long rods when

fishing from shore. A long rod paired with a
long-cast reel filled with thin line will make
your casts go quite a distance from shore. In
recent years, manufacturers have perfected
the use of carbon on fishing rods making
them thin, long, light and easier to handle
than their low carbon and fibreglass counterparts from a decade ago. The pricing
of these rods has also been very good for
the wallets in recent time. Ten years ago,
the pricing on long specialized carbon rods
would have broken the bank, these days
Smaller versions of jigs you use for offshore fishing
can be very effective when cast far from shore
Check for quality components,

sometimes the smaller manufacturers have better quality than
their big name counterparts
with the increased demand and with the major manufacturers joining in on the manufacturing of high carbon fishing rods of longer
lengths have made the availability and price
points better for us consumers.
Gone are the days when the longest rods
you see on the breakwaters are the telescoping fibreglass poles that were so popular in the United Arab Emirates 10 years ago.
Nowadays, you can see long rods being
used from manufacturers such as Majorcraft,
Shimano, Daiwa and Yamaga fished from the
jetties dotting our coastline.
Choosing the Right Rod and Reel
With the deluge of brands available to the

shore caster and the manufacturing
The Penn Sargus is a discontinued

reel, but it is well built and can stand
up to some pretty good fish
jargon that goes with it, it is sometimes

very difficult to decipher which rod would
fit your need. Most shops are not really that
familiar with the unique requirements of the
method, considering the fact that most people that can afford a boat have bought one
and they use short rods for their fishing. The
vast majority of people that cast lures such
as casting jigs and plugs from shore are left
to figure things out on their own.
One of the concerns of budget conscious
people is a rod that they would be able
to use for different fishing styles. These
are also my requirements and I have been
building up my arsenal of shore jigging
rods, which are also designed to cast plugs
such as poppers and stickbaits to weights
of up to 80 grammes. You can use it to cast
baits. However, I have rods that are dedicated to bait fishing; this frees me from using
the shore jigging rods while waiting for a
bite on the bait rods.
Specialized rods might have been very
expensive in the past, but good rods for
shore jigging and plug casting have been
priced reasonably lately.
The most important point for me when
choosing rods for this type of fishing is the
length I would choose a rod that would be
at the very least, 2.7m in length.
I fish with both Gstone and Majorcraft
rods in lengths of three metres and 3.2
metres. The three metre Gstone Radegast
casts lures of up to 40 grams while the 3.2m
Majorcraft casts lures of up to 60 grams.
I stripped the line to show the lip taper of this long

cast spool - this taper enables the line to slide off the
spool in a tighter spiral, giving you longer casts
Slow pitch jigs such as these are great when worked on a long rod from shore
I use PE 1.5 for the lighter rod and use

PE 2 for the heavier rod. The Radegast is
rigged for small stickbaits, poppers and
casting jigs while the Majorcraft Solpara
Shore Jigging rod is mostly used for 40 to
60 gram jigs. Both rods retail for about 650
AED.
The reels I use are the same reels I use
for jigging, the reel I use with the Radegast
is an old Penn Sargus a sturdy reel with a
metal body and a drag that has proven consistently over the years. Penn has stopped
manufacturing this line of reels and have
several offerings that are basically upgraded
versions of this reel The Battle and Conflict. These reels are lighter and are basically
upgraded versions of the Sargus and are
also priced very competitively.
The reel I use for the Majorcraft is the
new Orra Inshore reel from Abu Garcia. I
have caught a few fish with this reel since
purchasing it and I am quite happy with its
construction. Both reels are spooled with
Suffix braid and have been relatively worry
free since I got them.
I bought from Dragon Mart that are complete knockoffs of the top brands. The most
important thing to remember is to buy the
ones that you are most comfortable casting
and if the jigs and lures you cast are suited
to your rod. Rods have the max casting
weight marked on the blank.
Casting Far and Away
Casting far requires a balance of rod, reel,

line, weight and casting skill the length
of the rod, the thinness the line, the shape
of the spool, the shape and weight of the
lure and the casting stroke all contribute
to a long cast and therefore, a coverage of
areas where most people casting from shore
would not be able to reach an area that
does not get a lot of pressure from shore

fishermen.
However, also keep in mind that this is
just another method and not something that
would always produce fish for you. More
often than not, the fish are not even that
far to begin with. At the end of it all, this is
just a way for you to cast far and explore the
water more.
Dreaming of Reels Screaming,
Kit
Our fishing pro who shares
his experiences and
expertise with OutdoorUAE
through his regular column.
thefishingkit@gmail.com
Jigs
All the shops in the UAE are now stocking

good jigs at very good price points. I have
been very happy with the jigs from Majorcraft, Zalts, Storm Gomoku, even the ones
Most rods have the basic information on the blank, always check and follow the ratings
An often overlooked aspect is the knot that connects the braid to the leader - here, I am using the FG knot, a very strong knot that doesnt snag the guides on the cast
OUTDOORUAE
57
Women
on Wheels
What It Takes
to Become an
Elite Cyclist
Words by: Helle Bachofen von Echt
Photos by: Tonya Colson
Its been a rollercoaster ride

of both experiences and emotions, all of which I had never
dreamt of when I first jumped on
my newly purchased road bike
at Al Qudra, after relocating to
Dubai at the end of 2013. Being a personal trainer and group
exercise instructor, I come from a
background of general fitness and
have always been fit and healthy.
So why suddenly take up cycling?
Very simple: Because I wanted to
be exercising in the outdoors, in
the beautiful weather we have the
majority of the year in the United
Arab Emirates.
I joined a couple of Spinneys Build Up
rides and did noticeably well. Perhaps
more surprisingly, I felt a sense of competitive edge in me that I didnt even
realise I possessed. What a journey it has
been since then. I decided to throw myself fully into the sport with the thought of
What if? What can I possibly achieve in
this sport if I dedicate my time, focus and
efforts?
I havent looked back since. I have been
racing elite since two months after taking
up cycling and have gone on to participate in various international races and
events too, including the UCI Amateur
World Championships 2014 and Danish
National Championships 2015.
So what does it take to become an elite
cyclist?
Well, in the UAE there are still very few
elite female riders and to ensure we get
our own womens only competitions, we
must grow. Therefore we welcome any
riders who have a decent level of fitness,
bike handling skills and a good dose of
determination and willingness to grow
and learn as an athlete to join as elite.
Anyone can register as an individual elite
rider with the UAE Cycling Federation
and this license will also allow the rider to
compete in international events.
To be an elite cyclist and compete
outside the Middle East is a different ball

game. The level of the riders increases and
so does the riders commitment to training.
My training schedule as an amateur elite
rider is 12-15 hours per week on the bike,
mainly solo training but usually once a week
with a group for speed and socialising. The
solo training is often more of a mental than
physical challenge. Its lonely and it can
be very tough to motivate oneself to
push over the threshold and into
discomfort over and over again. It
requires some serious self discipline
and stamina and its a skill to learn
to embrace the hurt and learn how
to deal with it. But this is necessary
to improve both mental and physical
strength. During a race, this feeling
of being pushed to the limit, suffering
and then having to push through it,
will appear over again, and its helpful
that this sensation is practiced on a
regular basis during training.
Being an elite cyclist does require a
higher level of dedication and commitment to training, nutrition and sleep,
especially due to the nature of being more
time consuming than other sports. However, when the rewards are reaped, the
hurt, the sacrifices and time spent during
training, seem to disappear in an instant.
Being an elite female in a male dominated sport, especially in the Middle East,
can have its challenges but certainly also rewards; as there are not always enough elite
female riders, we race with the elite men.
We have our own classification, but the
nature of the male racing field is faster and
more aggressive. It does require a higher
level of confidence on the bike, the ability to
position oneself correctly to save energy, as
well as building a level of strength and ability to ride at higher speeds matching that
of the men. This can be rather intimidating
for female riders and it is certainly not for
everyone. However, the male riders are very
welcoming and allow us to work on these
skills with them during their weekly training.
This kind of training forces the female rider
to step outside her comfort zone and fight
harder to match the level of the male riders.

Its a great mental reward when this is being
achieved and even more so when the female
rider is being seen as a valuable player in
the male field.
In order to get more of our own womens
only races in the UAE, we simply need more
women to sign up as elite. And if we can
have our own races, the nature of those will
be less fast, less aggressive and less risky,
less intimidating and will allow all individuals
to improve their skills and abilities in a safer
environment. This will be much more inviting
for female riders and can potentially help
develop promising athletes and contribute
to growing competitive cycling for women in
the region.
In the scope for the coming season,
together with BeSport, who have bike shops
in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we are working on an exciting project to build a female
only elite team. The idea is to bring some
promising, new, locally-based girls into the
elite group. With the support of each other
as well as local bike shops, we aim to increase the number of riders and bring more
visibility and awareness to womens elite
cycling, as well as supporting each individual
in their growth as an athlete. Hopefully with
the support also from other bike shops and
the UAE Cycling Federation we can work
together to grow and create opportunities
for competitive female athletes.
We have already seen womens only
challenges in the likes of the Liwa Cycling
Challenge and the very popular NAS Sports
Tournament supported by Sheikh Hamdan,
Crown Prince of Dubai, with around 20-25
elite females taking part. In addition, we

have also recently had Arab female visitors from Iran and Kuwait competing in the
elite category and both placing in the top
5. This is a fantastic step towards building
competitive female cycling in the Middle
East. However, there are many more cycling
events and challenges during the season
where the fate of the existence of a womens
only category boils down to the numbers
registered. Too few and we are thrown into
the mix of the elite men which completely
changes the nature of the race, the skill set
and the strength required for racing. Also,
the womens visibility fades and becomes
less important to organisers and potential
sponsors.
Some aspirations for female competitive
cycling in the UAE would be to secure a
womens only category at all events organised throughout the season, which is highly
achievable through attendance. A local
womens only race series for all females to
learn and practice racing tactics and skills
would help all female cyclists to prepare for
the actual events too. And who knows what
this can lead to? The UAEs first professional
female team perhaps? Or following in the
footsteps of Qatar and hosting a womens
professional tour of Dubai? The opportunities are open to the UAE.
In the meantime, where the ground work
is done, we continue to invite women into
cycling for whatever purpose the individual
desires. From here talent can be developed
with the support of each other. Being an
elite cyclist myself and being part of forming
the womens elite, we simply have to start
somewhere, even if small. Therefore I do
encourage female riders to come forward
for the events, participate in a safer environment and help each other build the stronger
side of female cycling and ensure our
presence and worth as athletes.
Helle Bachofen von Echt is a

Dubai-based sponsored Elite Road
Cyclist competing in both local and
international events. When she is not
training, she is helping others achieve
their health and fitness goals by running
her own personal training services as
well as giving indoor cycling classes.
Helle loves travelling with her bike
and you can follow her adventures and
racing on Instagram
@thegirlwhocyclesinthedesert.
OUTDOORUAE
59
OUR EXPERTS
Desert Marathon, Ultra

Marathon and Explorations:
After my first 42 kilometres in the desert (a dream come true, but only after facing a
big challenge) I realised the importance of the correct equipment and clothing.
to prevent the sun from burning my arms and
Words By: Nico de Corato
Photos By: Nico de Corato and Max Calderan legs. I ran on. After a few kilometres, I reached
the first checkpoint. Whilst running I wasnt
aware of how many kilometres I had already
After completing my first
run and how many I still had to face. Max gave
marathon, one of my goals was a
me a few tips. The first was with regard to
marathon in the desert: running
better clothing and the second was not to fear
going a bit slower. This was not a competition;
the same 42km but in an extreme
I was alone.
environment with prohibitive condiWalk uphill, run downhill and on the plains,
tions. A goal I ultimately achieved
in the beginning at least.
More kilometres made of uphills and
with the support of my coach, Max
downhills and another checkpoint passed by.
Calderan.
Max advised that I sit in the car with the A/C
on for a few minutes to lower my temperature
We were in Liwa. I was ready. The temperaand gave me another tip: cover your head
ture was 46 degrees Celsius and it was 4pm.
and keep it wet, it helps more than drinking. I
I was ready to start a desert solo marathon.
realised that I didnt bring enough water so I
By 4:15 pm, Max had already left to wait for
began increasing my walking streaks to save
me at the scheduled checkpoints. I started
both water and energy. I was looking forward
as quick as a gazelle with adrenaline rushing
to the sun being less powerful later in the day,
through my veins, but it took less than one
so as to get rid of my suit. By the third checkkilometre for me to understand that the way
point, I was able to discard my suit, which
I was clothed was completely inadequate.
made me feel much better.
Hypertechnical gear was completely wrong
After a few more kilometres, it was dark and
for the conditions. Beyond the colour (black),
the water was almost finished. Max gave me
the stretch fabric worn on top of the triathlon
an additional 1.5 litres but I needed to mansuit trapped the heat and the gel band comage it. I was incredibly thirsty, and promised
pressed the pelvis and caused discomfort and
myself that I would never waste water again in
difficulty when getting water.
my life. I grabbed a flashlight just in case, but I
I had no alternative however, as I needed
could see the path anyway, and Max suggested continuing without it to embrace the desert
night. I followed this advice. As it was night
and I needed to drink less water, I used some
of it on my head and noticed an increase in
my energy levels. Having water bottles behind
my back prevented me from lowering the top
part of my triathlon suit. I took a mental note
of that as running bare-chested would have
been easier.
I alternated between running and fast walking. At one of the checkpoints, I left everything in the car and kept only the flashlight
and a bottle of water to carry in my hand.
Bare-chested, I began running again at a good
speed with enthusiasm and more energy. Heat
was no longer a problem. I left the water in
the car too and decided I would only drink
at checkpoints so that I wouldnt be tempted
to drink and consume the last litre. For safety
reasons, we reduced the distance between
checkpoints, and I kept the flashlight to signal.
My legs began aching, but I was not cramp-
ing. I managed the difficulty and ate some

apricots.
In the meantime my thoughts vanished. The
only concern I had was surviving! I tried to pretend the support car wasnt even there. I didnt
bring enough water; I needed to manage.
Another checkpoint and we were now in
the Qasr al Sarab Resort, and I received good
news: there was only 10km to go. To save
water, I ran less. I only had a little more than
half litre left, but I was almost there. It was so
dark that I couldnt see the road, so I switched
from the handheld flashlight to the front one
which was more comfortable to use and left
my hands free.
My thoughts included what to wear next
time and what to eat, but the number one
thought was always water.
The last checkpoints seemed to be further
and further apart. I asked Max so many times
if I had really run only 2km. I needed to rest. I
lay down on the fresh sand and I looked up at
the stars, seeing a falling star as soon as I lifted
my eyes. After five minutes I was back on my
feet. I saw a tower further down the road, and
I wondered if that was the entrance to the resort. Maybe, I thought, I will meet a guardian
who will be able to give me some water. Some
cars were passing by, but were not stopping,
so I couldnt ask them.
Another checkpoint and I heard the magic
words: last kilometre. I asked for confirmation of how much water I had left - less than a
third of the small bottle and the same quantity
in the larger one. I drank almost the entire
small bottle, took the last gel, ate some apricots and started running.
I made it to the tower, and there I found
only Max (it was not the resort entrance). Its
over, he said, You ran 42km.

I celebrated by drinking almost all the water I had
left. I was tired but not exhausted as I looked at the
clock; only 8 hours had gone by. I was devastated
by hunger, thirst and fatigue but fascinated by the
challenge, the darkness and the desert. After a few
hours of sleep on the sand, I was challenged in the
morning with the climb of a small sand dune. This
80 meters represented the final step prior to the
return to civilization.
Two months later, whilst I was back for a 50km
training run in the desert, thinking that what represented an impossible effort back then is now almost
routine training. This time, the atmosphere and the
conditions were slightly different. Max planned for
me to train with Marcus Smith and some friends
from the InnerFight gym. We were a group of about
10 people with one thing in common: the will to
break through our own limits. We left at 5:30 am
with a fresh (if not cold) temperature. The course we
intended to run was the ring of Al Qudra. We could
choose to either run on asphalt, on compacted dirt
right by the main road, or further in.
I made it to the training with a totally different
outlook than last time. I left behind my technical
gear, gel, fitness bars, and told myself, I learned a
lesson, I am in the desert, not at Yas Marina Circuit.
I left with a pair of shorts, a t-shirt that I soon took
off and a shemagh. This is a survival must have
in the desert. In the beginning I was wearing it in
the Emirati style (rolled around the head). Two small
water bottles were in my hands, and I didnt even
wear a watch. You dont really need to know what
time it is in the desert - whats more important is to
know how to manage the sun and sand.
On board the support car I put the rest of my
water (this time I had it in abundance), some food
(dates and dry meat) and some clothing items for
the hottest part of the day. Everything was in a
backpack as I was getting used to the idea that I
should be able to put everything in a bag and be
self-sufficient for food and water.
We began running as a group. Max (in the car) occasionally came closer to give me tips or exercises
to do. The friend running alongside me insisted that
I took gels, solutions or more, and I kindly declined.
There is something wrong in this training.
I began feeling the fatigue, and after a while I
let everybody else come by. I looked around. That
was it! I knew what was wrong it was not desert
enough! The asphalt, the cyclists passing by, the
group running together. I missed the desert, the real
one. I began running again, our coach smiling as I
shared with him my thoughts.
After 25 of the 50km we were supposed to run,
I decided to stop and rest, lying on the ground. I
didnt need to sleep, but I was getting used to the
idea of micro-cycles of rest needed for longer runs
(i.e. the real challenge I will face in September/
October). As I discovered, the shemagh can also be
useful to avoid laying directly on the sand.
Soon I realised that the sun was high in the sky,
and it was time to change into long pants and a
long-sleeved shirt (both a size larger to feel more
comfortable and trap enough air to isolate my

body). The sleeves of the shirt were long enough to
also cover my hands, but I had it in my mind that for
a proper exploration I would need to bring gloves
and sunglasses to leave no part of my body uncovered. I wore the shemagh so that it fully protected
my head, neck and face from the sun and my nose
and mouth from the sand. I also put some water
on it, both to lower my temperature and to avoid
dust in my airways (wet tissue acts as a water filter). I
placed some dates and dry meat in my pockets and
left the water in the car, leaving myself with only two
small bottles of water in my hands. More and more I
strived for self-sufficiency.
At the 40th kilometre, I was no longer running.
Max advised that I stop. After all, it is not a race but
training, and hurting myself made no sense. I had
passed the limit of muscle training and it was better
to stop and bring home another 40km in the desert.
I do, however, have a bitter taste in my mouth. I
burned energy by keeping in front of the group for
the first few kilometres, and Max highlighted that if I
had let everyone go and walked the first 10km, not
only would I have completed the 50km, but I would
have probably made it quicker than everyone else.
My strategy to run as many kilometres as possible in
the dark was not the right one, and I brought home
some positive consideration.
The maximum temperature during the run was 52
degrees. We ran two to three hours in the dark and
continued (already fatigued) with the sun high in the
sky. Last time, only the first two hours were in the
sunlight. I completed 40km in six hours (rather than
the eight before), in higher temperatures, drinking
much less. I used most of the water to wet my head
and disperse the heat, but I didnt have the thirsty
feeling that accompanied me throughout my first
desert run even in warmer temperatures. I ate very
little, the minimum required for energy. Clothing
more suited to a desert environment prevented me
from getting as dehydrated.
I completed the training with no particular problems - no heat stroke, burns or any other issues. The
last time, I had to stop on several occasions just to
feel better, and those who did make it to the 50km
mark were sunburnt due to the technical gear that
left their skin uncovered.
See you in the sand of the Rub al Khali Max!

Blogger, marathon runner, triathlete,
divemaster and heli rescue swimmer with
Bergamo Scuba Angels. You can check my
website www.dubaiblognetwork.com,
contact me on social networks or via email
at admin@dubaiblognetwork.com for
information about this article or just to say
hello.
PEOPLE
Mohamed
Hesham Kamel
Age: 26
Nationality: Egyptian
Occupation: AgainstGraviTi Cofounder
If youve ever watched District 13

then you have probably heard and
even seen parkour in action. Pioneered by Frenchman David Belle,
the physical discipline has gained
surging popularity ever since its inception in the late 1980s. Did you
know that you could perform those
insane parkour tricks here in Dubai
as well? We sit down with local
traceur Mohamed Hesham Kamel
as he talks about how to make the
city your playground.
How did you first get into
parkour?
I got into parkour with my friends in Egypt

nine years ago when they represented the
sport in France the origin of the sport.
Are there any other sports

that you are involved with?
Im actually heavily focused in parkour but

recently my training has also involved calisthenics, flow and tricking.
What should our readers

know about parkour?
Parkour is a freestyle sport. Its not as risky or

as dangerous as most people think, and is
mainly about pushing your limits to achieve
skills or techniques to overcome obstacles.
We are a community that is motivated by
creativity and our passion for parkour. Parkour challenges ones creativity in staying on
the move.
Parkour is a freestyle
sport. Its not as risky
or as dangerous as
most people think,
and is mainly about
pushing your limits
to achieve skills or
techniques to
overcome obstacles.
Are there any specific skills
that need to be learned before
doing parkour?
There are no skills that I would consider
learning prior to going for parkour, but
building strength and understanding the
basic tenets of parkour is necessary for
progression.
What would you say are the

challenges that parkour faces
in the UAE?
As with the majority of outdoor activities,

the summer heat is one big impediment.
Another challenge would be gaining permissions since parkour is mostly held in the city.
What training regimens

do you do to prepare?
I prefer flow warm-up which is something I

also teach its a bit lengthy to explain, but
to know more about it you can visit my Instagram page at @heshamiv.
What do you love most

about your sport?
The freedom of movement that parkour allows! I could go anywhere I want, whenever
I want and it all boils down to my decisions
on how to reach my destination. Other than

that, parkour also hones my creativity especially when Im tackling challenging paths.
How could our readers get

to know more about parkour?
You can definitely check out our group

called AgainstGraviTi. We have training
sessions going on and we have obstacles
designed for beginners and experts who
want to learn or develop their parkour skills.
You can check out our group at www.againstgraviti.com
Lastly, do you think the city

of Dubai is the perfect
playground for parkour?
It is! The public playgrounds and parks are

perfect to kickstart your parkouring if you
are a beginner, and it is the best spot to
hone some advanced skills to some extent.
The winter is the best time for outdoor
training since this is the time when the entire
city becomes an absolute playground.
PEOPLE
Lina Zoghaib
Age: 33
Nationality: Lebanese-Canadian
Occupation: Hatha Yoga Teacher
There are times in a persons

life wherein something occurs to
them that ultimately leads them
to life in the great outdoors. It can
be any sort of event, but it just so
happens that for yogi Lina Zoghaib,
this had to come in the form of a
heartbreak. Eventually, this event
introduced her to the beautiful and
meditative world of the outdoors
to the world of Yoga.
How did you first
get into yoga?
A heartbreak led me to this beautiful journey

in my life. I started yoga in the gym back
in 2009, and did it three times a week. I felt
amazed by the physical challenges and the
spiritual connection it gives. Afterwards, I
decided to learn more about yoga and its
benefits and I have now travelled all over the
world, learning from different teachers and
joining yoga retreats.
Are there any other sports

that you are involved with?
Outdoor activities such as hiking, paddleboarding and swimming
What do you think are the

benefits of practicing yoga?
Yoga has tremendous effects on the body

and mind. Regularly practicing yoga helps to:
Strengthen the Body - It improves muscle
tone; helps build strong abs, back muscles
and quadriceps. All of the poses build core
strength in the deep abdominal muscles.
Build better posture - Since Yoga strengthens the core muscles, we are more likely to
sit tall and straight, which allows the spine to
absorb more oxygen.
Improve heart health - Lower blood pressure
and a slower heart rate both help to improve
the efficiency of the cardiovascular system.
Breathing better - Yoga creates more aware-
ness of each breath, increasing the lungs

capacity for O2 which also helps calm the
nervous system.
Calm and relax the mind - through various
meditation techniques, we can increase the
level of focus and concentration.
What do you love most

about Yoga?
I feel fulfilled mentally, physically and spiritually after my practise; I also love the fact that
I can travel anywhere in the world and find
shalas to practise. I enjoy immersing myself
in community events and festivals where I
can practise and meet likeminded people.
Through my community yoga, I am helping
build a school for orphans in Kenya (Africa
Kids on Facebook), and this brings me so
much joy and fulfilment.
When was the most memorable

moment for you in your history
of being a yogi?
It was during my teaching course in India,

when I was able to finally focus during meditation. I was never able to calm my brain, and
through daily practise and the help of many
teachers, I started to experience the beauty
of being still and calm. I finally understood
the concept that happiness comes from
within no matter where you go or what
you do, if you are happy with yourself, you
can reflect this happiness on to others, and

spread the love.
How has yoga impacted

your life?
The major impact is the connection I have

with my higher power.
What comes next for you? Where

could we see you in action?
I have embarked on a lifetime journey and

every day is a learning curve for me. There
will be more workshops with international
teachers, and I will be visiting India for my
regular practise with my teacher Anup Gupta.
Since I teach community sessions outdoors,
I am working on an outdoor project which I
am hoping I can share with you by the end of
September. Check out my Facebook page:
InstaYoga for the latest updates.
By end of September I will restart my community Yoga on the beach near the Burj Al
Arab three times a week - all updates will be
shared on Facebook and I keep my group
updated on Whatsapp at 056-4159025 for
anyone who would like to join.
Lastly, being a yogi, what do

you always tell your students?
Take time to be silent, to reflect back on yourself, allow yourself to slow down and enjoy
the beauty of now. I always share inspirational
quotes and prayers The strongest trees in the
forest grow the slowest, Dear God, grant
us the serenity of mind to accept what can be
changed, to have the courage to accept which
cannot be changed, and to have the wisdom
to know the one from the other.
OUTDOORUAE
63
LOCATIONS
Words By: Eranga Yasas
Off-roading has become a very

popular hobby amongst expats
during the past few years in the
United Arab Emirates.
There is a long list of off-road clubs that

can be approached if someone wants to
drive their own 4X4 in a morning or evening trip to the desert. If not there are more
organised tour companies providing dune
bashing trips with food and entertainment
in a desert camp after a sunset photo shoot.
On the other hand, overlanding is something not heard of so much in the region.
It involves more preparation than a regular
weekend drive. Some may even be shocked
to hear that people actually overland for
years around the world.
The seed of overlanding was planted early
this year when I asked our group if anyone
is game for a four day camping trip. My
partner in crime Bazil was with me on the
idea immediately and Mitch, who has covered most of Oman during his early tour and
travel career, was in too. The night went on
and the next day I set up a WhatsApp group
adding three of us.
We started meeting after work a few times
to plan the route. We made a checklist with
all the items we had and what we should
carry with us, including recovery gear, first
aid, food, tools and water. The idea was to
carry the minimum but not to run out during
the trip. Our next member Channa is also
an outdoor and adventure freak, who has
done some serious climbing and many other
activities around globe. Yet this was his first
time experiencing overlanding. So we were
all set! Lets go and see Oman... from a different angle.
Episode 1
Day 1 - 14th April
I really dont know if I should consider this

as day one of the trip. The events unfolding definitely need to be remarked upon.
Although we thought that we would start
the journey at 23:00 hours from the ADNOC
petrol pump on Maliha road after passing the E611, we were all delayed with last
minute preparations. We managed to hit
the road by 23:45. Driving on winding roads
from Maliha to Hatta in horror movie-type
darkness was good for a starter. We made
a few stops on our way to the Hatta border
looking for ice, finding it surprising that
none of the gas stations in the UAE had ice.
We were without ice in our ice box and one
point was noted: a fridge is a must have
. We reached Hatta UAE border close to
1:30am and the new set up at the border
was very convenient. We got through the
gate in a jiffy with our exit stamps and then
we encountered the highlight of the day.
All three of us were asked to move the
vehicles to the inspection area as the officials wanted to check the vehicles inch by
inch. At two in the morning, it was tough to
repack all that we had packed so carefully
and systematically. Bazil had a roof rack full
of jerry cans, a toolbox and one military
looking storage box. Luckily, customs officers were convinced that we were just a
bunch of crazy people living in vehicles to
save money. We headed out of the customs
post at 3:30 am. By this time our energy
levels had been drained and we were ready
to put up the tents at any moment. Change
of plans we decided not to drive to the
Shinas lagoon and instead drove directly to

Sohar Beach under the new road construction to find a camping spot. We settled for
the first clean, flat spot on the beach.
Day 2 - 15th April 2015
Officially, I would consider this as the first

day of our trip. Three hours of sleeping was
interrupted by a noise that you dont hear
that much in Middle Eastern living. We were
woken up not by loud waves nor an angry
villager, but by hundreds of angry crows!
The whole bunch of them decided we had
had enough sleep at 7:00 am. We did not
regret that we were forced to open our eyes
so early as the scenery was mind-blowing.
Golden waters and the morning sun reflecting on the sea was well captured by our
lenses. The first visitor after the crows was
a villager from the nearby fishing village.
As he was kind of surprised to see a bunch
of guys making tea so early on the beach,
he explained to us how the fishing season
had been and the welfare of the village. It
was so kind of him to invite us to his house
for breakfast; we kindly turned him down
explaining that we had to cover more than
600km and had a five-star lunch to attend
to.
A quick kitty wash and warm coffee, and

we were all packed up ready to hit the road
after filming the area with a drone. I guess
the crows got their fair share once Channa
started the drone. A Pakistani special meat
preparation for others and dhal curry for me
( I knew this was coming my way as I was the
only vegetarian), with freshly baked bread
from a local Pakistani food joint in Sohar
was a great way to keep the belly full for the
long drive. Eating out was suggested whenever possible to minimize what we carried
and also to save time for the drive. I guess
it was a good idea too. We found ourselves
on the highway to Muscat with nothing
much to talk about other than that there was
no ice in any of the supermarkets or petrol
stations between Sohar and Muscat City
Centre too. We somehow managed to buy
a few things from City Centre. There were
so many new developments since my last
visit to Muscat six years ago. The roads were
crowded, with constructions and diversions
showing that Muscat is in a development
phase now. We managed our way through
the city to Al Bustan Palace Hotel just in
time for the lunch. Special thanks to all the
staff at Al Bustan Palace for hosting us. We
also met an off-road enthusiast, Mohammed Al Hadi, from one of the Oman-based
off-road groups and he was fascinated with
our route. He also suggested a few places
for our plan B if we ran late en route to our
planned destination. Believe me, the info
came pretty handy.
We hit the road after a super meal, though
we didnt need much of a dinner after all
of that food from the buffet lunch spread.
We turned towards New Yeti road so that
we could witness the seawater between the

rocks and bay-like formations that hid rich
sea life, also undoubtedly providing great
harvest for the fishermen from the area. We
were in search of a shorter route towards Sur
though the mountains or beach. We passed
by the small village of Saifah, looking for the
gateway towards Qurayyat which was on the
other side of the mountains. Either we ended up at a fence on the beach or at a dead
end on the gravel tracks. We soon decided
to backtrack to Muscat and take Highway
17. Road diversions took more time than we
expected as our return from Saifah was full
of photo stops.
We managed to reach Qurayyat Beach at
around 8:00 p.m and we were lucky enough

to notice the narrow road alongside the
beach. The beach was full of mini rock cliffs.
It looked impossible to set up camp. We
tried a few sandy patches and finally found
a nice spot about 12km away from the
famous sinkhole. Hot bean curry was served
along with some Arabic bread that we had
bought from a local shop. A small bonfire
to compliment the fine sheesha, food and
our newfound spirit to go with lovely tunes
played by Bazil created a perfect camp, like
in the movies. Faces were lit up with the fire
and the sea breeze and water brought harmony to the tune from Bazils acoustic guitar.
We hit our tents an hour past midnight after
the longest day of the trip covering nearly
700kms...(To be continued)
OUTDOORUAE
65
TIPS & TRICKS
Sharing
is Caring
New Routes Feature
on OutdoorUAE.com
Words By: Daniel Birkhofer
Since the first day of

OutdoorUAE, providing
information to enjoy the
outdoors in the United
Arab Emirates is the
main purpose. And what
information could be
more important than
the where. So over
the past years we researched, observed and
finally developed a new
feature on our website
which makes finding
places and routes for
outdoor activities easier
and more fun than ever.
To make sure we have
the best and latest
routes we ask the best
experts to help us
you, our readers.
It is fast and easy to share
your routes and places with
the community! All you need
is a .GPX file, a few photos
and a description which can
be a few words up to a detailed instruction. To upload
a route, just visit our website
and fill in the upload form and
load the files which takes only
a few minutes. All the rest will
be done by us and within a
day, your route - with Google
Maps and download link is
online.
We hope that everyone
will use this great feature to
share their own routes and try
new ones. Since this is a new
feature we are happy about
any feedback to give you the
easiest and most convenient
tool so that everyone can
enjoy the outdoors.
66
OUTDOORUAE
Triathlon Exercises
Words By: Nicky Holland
Photos By: Jung Francisco
Ever wanted to do a Triathlon?

To complete a triathlon shows great
physical and mental strength, a high level
of fitness and a good amount of muscular
endurance.
When training for an event like a triathlon,
a lot of the hard work and conditioning is
done during training prior to the event. This is
to ensure that you are in the best shape and
optimal fitness by the time you take part.
Obviously, to improve your swimming
you will need to train in water, to improve
your cycling you will need to practice on a
bike and for running - you guessed it - you
need to run. However, this article will give
you exercises and techniques that will help
facilitate your overall fitness, strength and
endurance when in the gym...making you a
better athlete and ready for a triathlon.
the sea against the tide. First, get yourself

into the plank position where your elbows
are under your shoulders and your knees are
lifted so that you are balancing on your toes.
From there, stage 1 is to tap the left leg to
the side then back in and then tap the right
leg to the side and back in. Stage 2 is to tap
the hands. The main focus should be to keep
your hips square to the floor and to avoid
rotating. Draw your belly in and brace your
abdominals to keep as still as possible as
you tap your feet or hands from side to side
in slow, controlled movements. Aim for three
sets of 10-20 taps.
Box Jumps This exercise is a form of plyometrics. Here you need to set up a box or
a stepper which is raised from the floor. For
this exercise you need to use your leg muscles to jump onto the box or stepper and
control your landing so that you land with
both feet. Repeat this movement on and off
the box or the stepper aiming to perform
three sets of 20 repetitions with rest periods
in between.
3. Running
The last part of a triathlon is the run. You

need to be mentally strong and have good
core strength to drive you to the finish line.
2. Cycling
The main power of a cyclist comes from their

legs as they have incredible leg strength.
The quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes and
calves are the main muscles used when riding a bike.
1. Swimming
Technique and breathing is really important

for swimming. In order to improve your
breathing, you need to develop your
cardiovascular system.
Core, Arm and Leg Extension Having
a strong core will help keep your body in
alignment and your posture straight. If you
can do this in the water when swimming,
you will exert less energy which will benefit
your breathing and technique, especially in
Standing Opposite Knee to Elbow press

Here you need to stand upright. Extend
your left arm in the air (you can use a weight
for resistance) and balance on your left leg.
Extend your right leg out to the side. Using
your core strength, bring your left hand to
meet your right knee. By bringing the opposite arm to the leg you should feel your core
muscles working along with your balance.
The weight will work the arm muscles as you
extend to the ceiling, and by flexing the leg
and pointing the toes you will work the leg
muscles. Aim to perform three sets of 10-15
reps on each side.
For best results, you should follow this
workout at least three times a week. Remember, the key part to completing a triathlon is
putting the time and effort into your training.
Therefore when you do it, it seems just like
another day of training!
Nicky Holland
Fitness Manager
Fitness First, Beach Park Plaza
68
OUTDOORUAE
22-24 OCT 2015
DUBAI AUTODROME
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VENUE
OFFICIAL RADIO
UAE DIRECTORY
General Sports
Equipment Megastores
Adventure HQ, Dubai Times Square Center,

Sheikh Zayed Rd, toll free: 800-ADVENTURE,
+971 43466824; The Beach on JBR, Dubai:
+971 44304419; Dalma Mall, Abu Dhabi:
+971 24456995, www.adventurehq.ae
Decathlon, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre,
+971 42839392
Go Sport, The Dubai Mall: +971 43253595;
Abu Dhabi Mall: +971 26454595; Bawabat Al
Sharq Mall, Abu Dhabi: +971 25868240
InterSport, Dubai Times Square Centre:
+971 43418214 and Dubai Festival City:
+971 42066581, www.intersport.ae
Peiniger BMT Est., CBD, Khalifa Street,
Yateem Optician Bldg., Abu Dhabi, UAE,
+971 26262332, www.peiniger.org
Sun and Sand Sports, most shopping
centres, +971 43504444,
www.sunandsandsports.com
Adventure tours
and desert safaris
Alpha Tours, Off #512, 5th Flr., Al Qwais

Bldg., Al Ittihad Road, Deira, Dubai,
+971 42949888, www.alphatoursdubai.com
Dadabhai Travel, SR 1&2, GF, Gulf Towers,
Oud Metha Rd. Dubai, +971 43885566,
www.dadabhaitravel.ae
Desert Rangers, P.O. Box 33501, Dubai
UAE, +971 4 4569944 or 50 7035111
www.desertrangers.com
Desert Road Tourism, Office 503, 5th Flr.,
Al Khor Plaza, Dubai, +971 42959429,
www.arabiantours.com
Dreamdays, First Floor Rm. 107 Ibn Battuta
Gate (Offices) Sheikh Zayed Rd.,
+971 4 4329392 or 4 4329393,
www.dreamdays.ae
Dream Explorer LLC, Shop no # 9,
Plot # 312-504, Al Musalla Building ,
Mina Bazar, Bur Dubai, +971 43544481,
www.dreamexplorerdubai.com
Dubai Relax Travel, National Towers:
Churchill Tower Suite #614, Business Bay, Dubai,
+971 44221776, www.dubairelaxtours.com
Element Fitness, Dubai, +971 44227352,
www.element-fitness.net
Explorer Tours, Umm Ramool, Dubai,
+971 42861991, www.explorertours.ae
Gulf for Good, Dubai, +971 43680222,
www.gulf4good.org
Gulf Ventures, Dnata Travel Centre
+971 44045880, www.gulfventures.com
MMI Travel LLC, Mezzanine Floor, Dnata
Travel Centre, Shk Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 4 4045999, www.theemiratesgroup.com
Net Group, Dubai and Abu Dhabi,
+971 26794656, www.netgroupauh.com
Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +971 42628889,
www.opdubai.com
Rahhalah, Dubai, +971 44472166,
www.rahhalah.com
Wild Guanabana, Dubai, +971 44422946,
www.wildguanabana.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Fishing, Camping, Kayaking,
& Adventure Club, +971504920860,
mohammed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Air
Ballooning Adventures Emirates, Dubai,

+971 42854949, www.ballooning.ae
Dubai Paragliders, www.microaviation.org,
+971 552120155 or +971 552250193
Jazirah Aviation Club, Ras Al Khaimah,
+971 72446416 or +971 555531318,
www.jac-uae.net
Seawings, Dubai, www.seawings.ae
Sky Dive Dubai, Dubai, +971 501533222,
www.skydivedubai.ae
Boating & Sailing
Manufacturer
Al Fajer Marine, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43235181, www.alfajermarine.com
Al Jeer Marina, RAK border Musandam,
+971 72682333/+971 504873185,
www.aljeerport.ae
Al Shaali Marine, Ajman, +971 67436443,
www.alshaalimarine.com
Alyousuf Industrial, LLC,
+971 43474111, www.aym.ae,
yamboats@alyousuf.com
Elite Pearl Charter, Saeed Tower 1 office
# 3102, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE,
70
OUTDOORUAE
+971 43889666, www.elitepearlcharter.com

Gulf Craft, Ajman, +971 67406060,
www.gulfcraftinc.com
Distributors and Dealers
Art Marine LLC, Al Quoz Industrial Area,
Sheikh Zayed Road, 3rd Interchange
+971 43388955, www.artmarine.ae /
www.artmarinechandley.com
Azure Marine Dubai, +971 4 3706886,
www.azuremarine.net
Luxury Sea Boats, Dubai, +971 4 3284629,
www.luxuryseaboats.com
Macky Marine LLC, Dubai,
+971 505518317, www.mackymarine.com
Nautilus Yachts, Sharjah, +971 553419494
or 50 3419494, www.nautilusyachts.com
The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43405152, www.theboathouse.ae
UAE Boats 4 Sale, Dubai Marina,
+971 44471501, www.uaeboats4sale.com
Western Marine, Marina Yacht Club, Dubai,
+971 43039744
Equipment
Ali Khalifah Moh Al Fuqaei, Deira, Dubai,
+971 42263220
Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +971 43468000,
www.masaoodmarine.com
Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,
The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43808616 / +971 553899995,
info@bluewatersmarine.com,
www.bluewatersmarine.com
Extreme Marine, Dubai, +971 43992995,
www.extrememarine-me.com
Japan Marine / D1 Marine,
WS # 110, Dubai Maritime City,
+971 4 4426395 or 55 1666035,
uday@japanmarine.jp, www.japanmarine.co
Rineh Emirates Trading LLC, Dubai, Al
Quoz, +971 43391512,
www.rinehemiratesme.com
Repairs and Maintenance
Extreme Marine, Dubai, Dubai Marina,
+971 43992995,
www.extrememarine-me.com
Rineh Emirates, Sheikha Sana Warehouse 1,
Al Quoz, +971 43391512,
info@rinehemiratesme.com,
www.rinehemirates.com
SNS Marine, JAFZA Techno Park, Jebel Ali,
Dubai, +971 501405058, info@snsmarine.ae,
www.snsmarine.ae
The Boat House, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43405152, www.theboathouse.ae
Cruise Operators
Al Bateen Marina, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26665491,
www.marinaalbateenresort.com
Al Marsa Travel & Tourism, Dibba,
Musandam, +968 26836550, +971 65441232
Bateaux Dubai, Dubai Creek opposite
the British Embassy, +971 43994994
Bristol Middle East, Dubai Marina,
+971 4368 2480, www.bristol-middleeast.com
Captain Tonys, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, +971 26507175, www.captaintonys.ae
Delma Industrial Supply and Marine
Services, Al Bateen Jetty, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26668153, www.delmamarine.net
Eden Yachting, Dubai Marina,
+971 504586171, www.edenyachting.com
Emirates Yachting, Dubai, +971 42826683
El Mundo, Dubai, +971 505517406,
www.elmundodubai.com
Four Star Travel and Tourism, Dubai,
+971 42737779, www.fourstartravels.net
4 Yacht Arabia, Shop No. 5, Dubai Marina
Yacht Club, 800 92248, www.4yachtarabia.ae
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa,
Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah,
+971 92449888, www.rotana.com
Ghantoot Marina & Resort, Abu Dhabi,
+971 529933153, www.ghantootmarina.com
Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai,
+971 558961276, +971 503960202,
www.happydaysdubai.com
JPS Yachts and Charter, Room 225,
Emarat Atrium building, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +971 43437734, www.jpsyachts.com
Khasab Divers, Oman, +971 567255889,
khasab.diver2@gmail.com
Khasab Musandam Travel & Tours,
PO Box 411, Khasab, Musandam,
+968 93350703, info@tourkhasab.com
Khour Shem Tourism, Oman,
+968 26731919, www.khourshemtours.com
LY Catamaran, Dubai, +971 505869746,
+971 566506683, www.lycatamaran.com
Marine Concept, Dubai, +971 559603030,
Pavilion Marina, Dubai,

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +971 44068800
The PearlQatar Marinas, Doha, Qatar,
+974 4965801, www.ronauticame.com
Umm Al Quwaim Marine Sports Club,
Umm Al Quwaim, +971 67666644,
www.uaqmarineclub.com
Dragon Boat Groups
Dubai Dawn Patrol Dragon Boating,
Dubai, +971 508795645 (Michael),
www.dubaidawnpatrol.org
Dubai Diggers, Jumeirah Beach Hotel,
pier next to 360, Dubai, +971 501547175
(Nick Hando), www.dubai-diggers.com
UAE Dragon Boat Association,
+971 507634008,
www.dubaidragonboat.com
Camping & Hiking
www.marine-charter-concept.com
Nautica1992, Dubai, +971 504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Noukhada Adventure Company, Villa 332/7,
Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi, +971 26503600,
www.noukhada.ae
RAK Marine LLC, Ras Al Khaimah City Hilton
Marina, +971 504912696, +971 72066410
Sea Hunters Passenger Yachts & Boats
Rental, Dubai Marina, +971 42951011
Sheesa Beach, Dibba, Musandam,
+971 503336046, www.sheesabeach.com
Smoke Dragon Of London Yacht, Abu
Dhabi International Marine & Sports Club,
+971 507011958 / +971 504546617
Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai,
+971 42573084
The Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26731111,
www.the-club.com
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,
+971 26815566, www.adimsc.com
Abu Dhabi Marina, Abu Dhabi,
Tourist Club Area, +971 26440300
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam
+971 72682333 or 504873185,
www.aljeerport.ae
Al Mouj Marina, Muscat, Oman,
+968 24534554, www.almoujmarina.com
Al Wasl Charter & Fishing, Airport Road, Al
Qwais Bldg., Off. 207, Dubai, UAE,
+971 42394760-61, www.cruiseindubai.com
Dubai Creek Marina, Deira, Dubai,
+971 43801234, www.dubaigolf.com
Dubai International Marine Sports Club,
Dubai Marina, +971 43995777, www.dimc.ae
Dubai Marina Yacht Club, Dubai,
+971 43627900,
www.dubaimarinayachtclub.com
Dubai Maritime City Harbour Marina,
Dubai, +971 43455545
Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, Dubai,
+971 43941669, www.dosc.ae
Emirates Palace Marina, Abu Dhabi,
+971 43388955
Four Seasons Marina, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44948899, www.mourjanmarinas.com
Fujairah International Marine Club,
Fujairah, +971 92221166, www.fimc.ae
Intercontinental Abu Dhabi Marina,
Al Bateen, Intercontinental Hotel, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26666888, www.intercontinental.com
Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Marina,
Jebel Ali, Dubai,
+971 48145555/5029,
www.jebelali-international.com
Lusail Marina, Lusail City, Qatar,
+974 55843282,
www.mourjan-lusailmarina.com
Marina Bandar Al Rowdha, Muscat, Oman,
+968 24737286 (ext 215),
www.marinaoman.net
Equipment
Blingmytruck.com, +971 505548255,
www.blingmytruck.com
Gulf Camping, Dubai, UAE,
www.gulfcamping.com
Jack Wolfskin, Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+971 42840228; Al Wahda Mall,
Abu Dhabi,+971 24437802
Picnico General Trading, near Sharaf DG
Metro Station, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43951113
Tresspass, 2nd floor above ice rink,
The Dubai Mall, +971 43398801
Tour Operators
Arabia Outdoors, Dubai, +971 559556209,
www.arabiaoutdoors.com
Absolute Adventure, Dubai, +971 43459900,
www.adventure.ae
Desert Road Tourism, Al Khor Plaza 503,
Dubai, +971 42959428, www.arabiatours.com
Libra, +971 559228362, www.libra-uae.com
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai,
+971 43480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Sheesa Beach, Musandam, Dibba,
Caving
Mountain High Middle East, Dubai,

+971 43480214, www.mountainhighme.com
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre, Oman,
+968 24543002, www.holiday-in-oman.com
Oman World Tourism, Oman,
+968 99431333,
www.omanworldtourism.com
Climbing
Equipment
www.adventurehq.ae
Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai,
Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +971 43466558,
www.barracudadubai.com
Global Climbing Trading LLC,
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai,
+971 48829361, www.globalclimbing.com

Clubs
Abu Dhabi Tri Club, www.abudhabitriclub.com
Cycle Safe Dubai, Dubai Autodrome
www.cyclechallenge.ae
Dubai Roadsters, www.dubairoadsters.com
Diving
Jack Wolfskin
Mirdif City Centre Dubai, +971 42840228;
Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi +971 24437802
Services
Absolute Adventure, Dubai,
+971 43459900, www.adventure.ae
www.adventurehq.ae
Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26429995, www.alshaheenme.com
Dorell Sports Management, Dubai World
Trade Centre, +971 43065061,
www.climbingdubai.com
E-Sports UAE, Dubai, +971 42824540,
www.esportsuae.com
The Club, Abu Dhabi, +971 26731111,
www.the-club.com
Information
UAE Climbing, +971 506456491,
www.uaeclimbing.com
Mountain Biking & Cycling
Equipment/Dealers
Bikers JLT, Unit H6, Cluster H,
Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai, UAE,
+971 526221888, products@allbikers.net
Cycle Sports, Shop No. 1, Al Waleed Bldg.,
Al Barsha 1, Dubai, +971 43415415,
www.cyclesportsuae.com
Fun Ride Sports, 301, 3rd floor, Mushrif Mall,
Abu Dhabi, Rm. 4, Mezzanine floor,
C-13 Bldg., Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi,
info@funridesports.com,
www.funridesports.com
Micahs Bike Shop, Warehouse no.4
6th St. Al Quoz 3, Dubai, +971 43805228
Peak Performance, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai Mall, Dubai,
+971 43413056 / +971 43308023
Probike, Dubai, Al Barsha 1,
+971 43255705, www.probike.ae
Rage Shop, Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates,
Dubai Festival City,
+971 43369007, www.rage-shop.com
Revolution Cycles, Shop G05, Apex
Atrium, Motor City, Dubai, +971 43697441,
www.rcdxb.com
Ride Bike Shop, Dubai Mall, Festival City,
Oasis Centre, Mirdif City Centre,
Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, +971 43750231,
www.ridebikeshop.com
Sportz Unlimited, Sheikh Zayed Road &
Jebel Ali, Dubai, + 971 43388644
Tamreen Sports LLC, Khalifa Street,
Abu Dhabi, +971 26222525,
www.tamreensports.com
The Cycle Hub, Motor City, Dubai,
+971 505528872, www.thecyclehub.com
Trek Bicycle Store, Seih Al Salam,
Al Qudra Road, Dubai, +971 48327377,
www.trekbikes.ae
Trikke uPT, Dubai, +971 45081202,
+971 556096757, www.trikkeme.net
Wolfis Bike Shop, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed
Road, +971 43394453, www.wbs.ae
Operator
+971 43459900, +971 506259165,
www.adventure.ae, info@adventure.ae
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi and Dubai,
+971 42894858, www.alboommarine.com
Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment,
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, +971 43444468
Al Masaood Marine, Sheikh Zayed Road,
+971 43468000, Dubai
Al Yousuf Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road,
Dubai, +971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha
Blue Waters Marine, +971 42232189, Dubai,
Gulf Marine Sports, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26710017, www.gulfmarinesports.com
Premiers for Equipment, Abu Dhabi,
Sh. Zayed 1st. Road, +971 26665226,
www.premiers-uae.com
Scuba Dubai, Al Barsha, Al Khail Road,
Dubai, +97143414940, info@scubadubai.com
Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah, +971
92388477, www.scuba-2000.com
Diving Centres
Al Boom Diving (equipment),
Dubai, Al Wasl Rd, +971 43422993,
www.alboomdiving.com
Al Jeer Marina, RAK Border, Musandam,
+971 72682333, www.aljeerport.ae
Al Mahara Dive Center, near Muroor St
across from main bus terminal,
+971 26437377, info@divemahara.com,
www.divemahara.com
Arabian Diver, Hilton Marine, Ras Al
Khaimah, +971 72226628, +971 502428128
www.arabiandiver.com
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing
Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971 506146931,
www.fishabudhabi.com
Coastal Technical Divers,
glenn@coastaltechnicaldivers.com,
www.coastaltechnicaldivers.com
Deep Blue Sea Diving, International City,
Dubai, +971 44308246, www.diveindubai.com
Desert Islands, Sir Bani YAs Island,
Abu Dhabi, UAE, +971 28015400,
www.divemahara.com
Divers Down, Fujairah, Rotana Al Aqah Hotel
Resort & Spa, +971 92370299,
www.diversdown-uae.com
Emirates Divers Centre, Abu Dhabi,
near Meena Fish Market, +97126432444,
www.edc-ad.ae
Euro-Divers Oman, Muscat, Oman,
+968 95035815, www.euro-divers.com
Extra Divers Ziggy Bay, Oman, Musandam,
+968 26735555, www.extradivers.info
Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah,
contactus@freedivinguae.com,
www.freedivinguae.com
Freestyle Divers, Dubai, Al Wasl & Dibba,
Royal Beach Hotel, +971 43944275,
www.freestyledivers.com
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa - Al Aqah
Beach, Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah,
+971 92449888, www.rotana.com
Global Scuba Dive Center, Civil Aviation
Club, Oman, +968 99317518,
www.global-scuba.com
Khasab Divers, Oman,
www.khasabdiver.com
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort,
Dibba Road, Fujairah, +971 92449000,
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
Moonlight Dive Center,
Madinat Qaboos, Oman, +968 99317700,
www.moonlightdive.com
Muscat Diving & Adventure Centre,
Oman, +971 503289642,
www.holiday-in-oman.com
Neptune Diving, +971 504347902,
www.neptunedivingcentre.com
Nomad Ocean Adventures,
www.discovernomad.com,
+971 508853238, Dibba, Oman
Oman Dive Center, Muscat, Oman,
+968 24284240, www.omadivecenter.com
Pavilion Dive Centre (equipment), Dubai,
+971 44068828
Scuba Oman, Oman, +968 99558488,
www.scubaoman.com
Scuba 2000, Al Bidiya Beach, Fujairah,
+971 92388477, www.scuba-2000.com
Scuba UAE.com, +971 502053922,
www.scubauae.com
7 Seas Diving Center, Khorfakkan,
+971 92387400, www.7seasdivers.com
Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah,
+971 50784 0830, www.bsac406.com

Sky &Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton,
Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 43999005,
www.watersportsdubai.com
The Dive Shop, 34G, European Center,
Green Community, Dubai, UAE,
+971 48135474, www.thediveshopdubai.com
Clubs
Atlantis Underwater Photography Club,
Dubai, +971 44263000
Desert Sports Diving Club, Dubai,
www.desertsportsdivingclub.net
Emirates Diving Association, Diving Village,
Al Shindagha, Dubai,
+971 43939390, www.emiratesdiving.com
Filipino SCUBA Divers Club (FSDC),
Dubai, UAE, +971 566952421,
www.thefilipinoscubadivers.com
Freediving UAE, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah,
contactus@freedivinguae.com,
www.freedivinguae.com
Sharjah Wanderers Dive Club, Sharjah,
+971 507840830, www.bsac406.com
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Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai,
Al Hamur Marine and Sports Equipment,
Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai,
+971 43444468
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed
Road, +971 43468000,
Al Yousuf Motors, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Rd,
+971 43390621, www.aym.ae/yamaha
Arabian Divers and Sportfishing
Charters, Al Bateen Marina Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971 506146931,
www.fishabudhabi.com
Barracuda Fishing and Outdoor, Dubai,
Street 13A 1, Al Safa 1, +971 43466558,
www.barracudadubai.com
Blue Waters Marine, Shop 11,
The Curve Bldg., Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai,
+971 43808616 / +971 553899995,
Challenging Adventure, Wadi Al Bih Ras Al Khaimah, +971 561060798,
contactus@challengingadventure.com
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai,
Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre,
+971 502898713, www.oceanactive.com
Operators
+971 43459900, www.adventure.ae
Al Boom Diving, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach
Resort, Fujairah, +971 43422993
Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, Al Hamra,
Ras Al Khaimah, +971 72434540,
www.alhamramarina.com
Al Mahara Dive Center,
Downtown Abu Dhabi, +971 501118125,
www.divemahara.com
Al Wasl Charter & Fishing, Airport Road, Al
Qwais Bldg., Off. 207, Dubai, UAE, +974 4
2394760-61, www.cruiseindubai.com
Al Shaheen Adventure, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26429995, www.alshaheenme.com
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Arabian Divers and Sportfishing Charters,
Al Bateen Marina Resort,
+971 506146931, www.fishabudhabi.com
Barracuda Diving Centre, Fujairah
International Marine Club, +971 9222558
Belevari Marine, Abu Dhabi, +971 26594144
Captain Tonys, Yas Marina, Yas Island, Abu
Dhabi, +971 26507175, www.captaintonys.ae
Fun Beach Water Sports, Dubai,
+971 53244550, www.funbeachsports.com
Happy Days Sea Cruising LLC, Dubai,
+971 558961276, +971 503960202,
www.happydaysdubai.com
Hiltonia Beach Club, Hilton Abu Dhabi
Hotel, Abu Dhabi, +971 26811900
Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort,
Dibba Road, Fujairah, +971 92449000,
www.lemeridien-alaqah.com
Nautica 1992, Dubai, +971 504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Noukhada Adventure Company,
Villa 332/7, Al Meena Street, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26503600, www.noukhada.ae
Ocean Active, Dubai, Garden Centre,
+971 502898713, www.oceanactive.com
Soolyman Sports Fishing, Dubai,
Umm Suqeim, +971 508866227,
www.soolymansportsfishing.com
Summertime Marine Sports, Dubai,
+971 42573084, www.summertimemarine.com
Xclusive Yachts, Dubai, Dubai Marina,
+971 44327233, www.xclusiveyachts.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Camping, Fishing & Kayaking
Club, mohamed.almahrouky@gmail.com
Dubai Surfski & Kayak Club, Kitesurfers
Beach, Umm Suqeim 1, Dubai,
+971 554986280, www.dskc.hu
General Sports Equipment

Distributors

Sheikh Zayed Rd, Toll free: 800-ADVENTURE,
www.adventurehq.ae
800 Sport, Al Quoz, Dubai
+971 43467751, www.800sport.ae
Flip Flop Arabia, flipme@flipfloparabia.com,
www.flipfloparabia.com
Dubai Investment Park 1, Dubai
Goal Zero, +971 509128353,
www.goalzero.ae
Highbury Trading, Dubai, UAE,
www.highburytrading.ae
Jack Wolfskin Mirdif City Centre Dubai,
+971 42840228; Al Wahda Mall Abu Dhabi,
+971 44437802
Ocean Sports FZE, +971 559352735,
www.kitesurfsup.com
PORTABLE SHADE UAE, Jebel Ali, Dubai,
UAE, +971 4 3469600, www.portable-shade.net
OUTDOORUAE
71

Sakeen General Trading, +971 47094224,
www.sakeen.ae
Sport in Life Distribution, Nad Al Hammar
Rd., Ras Al Khor, Dubai, UAE,
+971 42896001, +971 42896002,
info@sportinlife.ae, www.sportinlife.ae
Tresspass, The Dubai Mall
2nd floor above ice rink, +971 43398801
Horse Riding
Equipment
Al Asifa Horse Equestrian
& Requisites Trading, Al Khawaneej 1,
Dubai, +971 554733110, www.asifa.ae
Black Horse LLC, Abu Dhabi,
+971 26422237, www.blackhorseuae.com
Bonjour Equestrian Supplies,
Nad Al Hammar Rd., Ras Al Kho, Dubai,
UAE, +971 42896001, +971 42896002,
info@bonjourequestrian.com,
www.bonjourequestrian.com
Cavalos Equine Care and Supplies,
16th Street, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi,
+917 22222433, www.cavalosuae.com
Emirta Horse Requirement Centre,
Sheik Zayed Rd, Dubai, +971 43437475,
www.emirtahorse.com
Equestrian Clubs/Centres
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif,
Abu Dhabi, +971 24455500,
www.adec-web.com
Al Ahli Riding School, Al Amman Street,
Dubai-Sharjah Rd., +971 42988408,
www.alahliclub.info
Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu
Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com
Al Jiyad Stables, Behind Dubai International
Endurance City, Dubai, +971 505995866,
info@aljiyad.com, www.aljiyad.com
Al Sahra Desert Resort Equestrian Centre,
Dubai, +971 44274055,
equestrian.centre@alsahra.com
Desert Equestrian Club, Mirdif, Dubai,
+971 503099770 / +971 501978888
Desert Palm Riding School, Near Al Awir
Road (going to Hatta-Oman),
Dubai, +971 43238010,
www.desertpalm.peraquum.com
Dubai Polo Academy, Dubai,
+971 508879847, www.dubaipoloacademy.com
Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai,
Arabian Ranches, +971 43618111,
www.poloclubdubai.com
Emirates Equestrian Centre, Dubai,
+971 505587656,
www.emiratesequestriancentre.com
Ghantoot Polo & Racing Club, Exit 399,
Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25629050, www.grpc.ae
Golden Stables Equestrian Club, Al
Khawaneej, Dubai, (Nouri) +971 555528182,
www.goldenstables.ae
HoofbeatZ, located just inside the Dubai
Polo & Equestrian Club, Dubai,
+971 501810401, www.hoofbeatz.com
Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club,
Mushrif Park, Al Khawaneej Road, Dubai,
+971 42571256, www.mushrifec.com
Qudraland Community,
info@qudraland.com, www.qudraland.com
Rahal Ranch, Al Wathba Racing Area,
Abu Dhabi, +971 566127914,
www.rahalranch.com
Riding for the Disabled, Dubai,
lessons@rdad.ae, www.rdad.ae,
Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club,
Sharjah, Al Dhaid Road,
+971 65311188, www.serc.ae
Racecourses
Abu Dhabi Equestrian Club, Al Mushrif, Abu
Dhabi, +971 24455500, www.adec-web.com
Ghantoot Racing & Polo Club, Exit 399,
Abu Dhabi/ Dubai Highway, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25629050, www.grpc.ae
Jebel Ali Racecourse, off the main Abu
Dhabi - Dubai Highway (Sheikh Zayed road)
beside the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai,
+971 43474914
Meydan Grandstand and Racecourse,
Al Meydan Road, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai,
+971 43270000, www.meydan.ae
Sharjah Racecourse, Al Dhaid Road,
Sharjah, +971 65311155, www.serc.ae
Jet Ski
Dealers
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai,

Sheikh Zayed Road, +971 43468000,
Japan Marine General Trading,
Al Garhoud Road, Liberty Building, Dubai,
+971 559299111 / +971 42828255,
uday@japanmarine.jp, www.japanmarine.co
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4,
www.libertykawasaki.com
Motocross & ATVs
Dealers
Al Badayer Rental (Rental),
Dubai-Hatta Road, +971 507842020,
www.albadayerrental.com
Al Shaali Moto, Ras Al Khor,
+971 43200009, sales@alshaalimoto.com.
www.alshaalimoto.com
Golden Desert Motorcycles
Rental (Rental), Dubai-Hatta Road, Dubai,
+971 551532550, www.goldendesert-dubai.com
Just Gas It, Hatta Rd., Al Aweer, Dubai, UAE,
+971 509192394, www.JustGasIt.net
KTM, Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, exit 42,
+971 4323151, www.ktm.com
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange 4,
Polaris UAE (atvs), Ras Al Khor, Nad al
Hamar Road, Al Ghandi Complex, Dubai,
+971 42896100, M4, Sector 13,
10th Street, Mussafah Industrial, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25555144, www.polarisuae.com
Sebsports, Al Quoz Industrial Area 1
Dubai, +971 43393399, www.sebsports.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai,
+971 48321050, www. wildx.ae
Equipment
Dubai, +971 42959429, www.arabiantours.com
Sandstorm Motorcycles (Rental),
Al Quoz, Dubai, +971 43470270,
www.sandstorm-motorcycles.com
Sebsports, Dubai, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3,
+971 43393399, www.sebsports.com
2XWheeler, Motorcity Dubai,
+971 44548388, www.2xwheeler.com
Wild X, Dubai, Um Al Ramoul Industrial Area,
+971 42852200, www. wildx.ae
Workshops and Services
Moto-X and Quad, PO Box 476214, Dubai,
UAE, +971 50 6169727, www.gasgasmotos.me
Motorcycling

www.aym.ae/yamaha
Ducati, Mussafah 4, Street 10, Abu Dhabi,
+971 25535771, info2@ducati.ae,
www.ducati.ae
Duseja Motorcycles, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43476712, www.dusejamoto.com
Harley-Davidson, Mussafah 4, Street 10,
Abu Dhabi, +971 25540667,
hd.auh@harley-davidson.ae,
www.harley-davidson-abu-dhabi.com
Liberty Kawasaki, Dubai, Interchange4,
Polaris UAE, Al Ghandi Complex,
Nad al Hamar Road, Ras Al Khor,
+971 42896100, www.polarisuae.com
Tristar Motorcycles, +971 43330659,
www.tristaruae.com
Workshops and Services
Al Forsan International Sports Resort, Abu
72
OUTDOORUAE
Dhabi, +971 25568555, www.alforsan.com

Dubai Autodrome, Dubai, +971 43678700
www.dubaiautodrome.com
Emirates Motorplex, Umm Al Quwain,
+971 67681717
2xWheeler Adventures, Dubai,
+971 44548388, www.alainraceway.com
Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi,
www.yasmarinacircuit.com
Off-Road
Dealers
Bling My Truck,
+971 503634839 / +971 505548255,
info@blingmytruck.com, www.blingmytruck.com
4x4 Motors LLC, Shk. Zayed Rd, Dubai,
+971 43384866, www.4x4motors.com
Liberty Automobiles, Dubai, 800 5423789,
www.libertyautos.com
Repairs and Services
AAA Service Centre, Al Quoz, Dubai, UAE,
+971 4 285 8989, www.aaadubai.com
Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +971 43382744,
www.icon-auto.com
Mebar Auto, Al Quoz, Industrial Area 2,
Dubai, UAE, +971 4 3469600,
www.mebarauto.com
Off Road Zone, Dubai, Al Quoz,
+971 43392449, www.offroad-zone.com
Saluki Motorsport, Dubai, +971 43476939
www.salukimotorsport.com
Equipment
Advanced Expedition Vehicles,
Dubai & Abu Dhabi, +971 43307152, www.aev.ae
Bling My Truck,
+971 503634839 / +971 505548255,
info@blingmytruck.com, www.blingmytruck.com
Heartland UAE, Al Mafraq Industrial,
Abu Dhabi, +971 567231967,
www.heartlanduae.com
Icon Auto Garage, Dubai, +971 43382744,
www.icon-auto.com
Mebar Auto, Al Quoz, Industrial Area 2,
Dubai, UAE, +971 4 3469600,
www.mebarauto.com
Wild X Adventure Shop, Dubai-Hatta Road,
Dubai, +971 48321050, www.wildx.ae
Yellow Hat, Nad Al Hamar, and Times Square
Center, Dubai, +971 42898060,
www.yellowhat.ae
Tour Operators
Arabian Adventures, Dubai & Abu Dhabi,
+971 43034888, www.arabian-adventures.com
Dubai, +971 42959429, www.arabiantours.com
Oasis Palm Dubai, Dubai, +971 4 2628832
or 4 2686826, www.opdubai.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Off- Road Club, www.ad4x4.com
ALMOST 4x4 Off-Road Club,
+971 507665522, www.almost4x4.com
Dubai Offroaders, www.dubaioffroaders.com
JEEP Wrangler JK Fun Club,
suffian.omar@yahoo.com, www.jk-funclub.com
ME 4X4, www.me4x4.com
Running
Clubs
ABRasAC, Dubai, www.abrasac.org
Abu Dhabi Tri Club, Abu Dhabi,
www.abudhabitriclub.org
Abu Dhabi Striders,
admin@abudhabistriders.com,
www.abudhabistriders.com
Al Ain Road Runners, Abu Dhabi,
+971 504188978, alainroadrunners@yahoo.co.uk
Mirdif Milers, Dubai, www.mirdifmilers.info
Dubai Creek Striders
www.dubaicreekstriders.org
Stand up Paddling, Kite &

Surfing, Wakeboarding
Equipment
Al Boom Marine, Abu Dhabi & Dubai,
Al Masaood Marine, Dubai,
Iknic Brands, Suite 509 Dsseldorf
Business Point Al Barsha Dubai, UAE
+971 506874178, info@ikonicbrands.com
Kitesurf Dubai, Kitesurf Beach,
Umm Suqueim and Jumeirah 3
+971 505586190, www.kitesurfdubai.ae
Pearl Water Crafts,
Dubai Marina Yacht Club, +971 553749398,
www.pearl-watercrafts.com
Picnico, Jumeirah Beach Road
Opposite Sunset Mall, Dubai, +971 43941653
Surf Dubai, Dubai, Umm Suqeim,
+971 505043020, www.surfingdubai.com
Surf Shop Arabia, Building 1,
Al Manara Road (East), Interchange 3, Dubai,
+971 43791998, www.surfshoparabia.com

Surf School Arabia, +971 556010997,
www.surfschoolarabia.com
UAE Kite Surfing, +971 505626383,
www.ad-kitesurfing.net
Distributors
Kitepeople Kite & Surf Store,
International City, Dubai,
+971 504559098, www.kitepeople.ae
Ocean Sports FZE, +971 559352735,
www.kitesurfsup.com
Operators
Al Forsan International Sports Resort,
Abu Dhabi, +971 25568555, 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, +971 508703427,
www.ducomaritime.com
Dukite, Kitesurf Beach, Umm Suqeim,
Dubai,+971 507586992, www.dukite.com
Kite Fly, Dubai, +971 502547440,
www.kitesurf.ae
Kite4fun.net, Abu Dhabi, +971 508133134,
www.kite4fun.net
Kitepro Abu Dhabi, Yas Island
and Al Dabbayyah, Abu Dhabi,
+971 505441494, www.kitepro.ae
Nautica1992, Dubai, +971 504262415,
www.nautica1992.ae
Shamal Kite Surfing, Umm Suqueim Dubai,
+971 507689226, astrid@shamalkitesurfing.com,
www.shmalkitesurfing.com
Sky & Sea Adventures, Dubai, Hilton,
Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 43999005,
www.watersportsdubai.com
Surf School UAE, Umm Suqeim Beach
and Building 1, Al Manara Road (East),
Interchange 3, Dubai,+971 556010997,
www.surfschooluae.com
Watercooled, Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa,
Dubai, +971 48876771,
www.watercooleddubai.com
Water Cooled, Watercooled Sports Services
LLC, Hilton Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, UAE,
+971 26395997, www.watercooleduae.com
Clubs
Abu Dhabi Stand Up Paddle,
www.abudhabisup.com
UAE SUP www.uaesup.com
Water Parks
Aquaventure Atlantis, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah,

+971 44260000, www.atlantisthepalm.ae
Dreamland Aqua Park, Umm Al Quwain,
Emirates Road, +971 67681888,
www.dreamlanduae.com
Wadi Adventure, Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain,
+971 37818422, www.wadiadventure.ae
Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai,
+971 43484444, www.wildwadi.com
Other leisure activities
Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Abu Dhabi,

+ 971 25588990, www.adgolfclub.com
Al Tamimi Stables, Sharjah,
+971 67431122 / +971 44370505,
www.tamimistables.com
Blokart Sailing, Nad Al Sheba, Dubai,
+971 556101841, www.blokartme.com
DUBAI
INTERNATIONAL
MOTOR SHOW
10 -14 NOV 2015
DUBAI WORLD TRADE CENTRE
W H AT D R I V E S Y O U ?
DUBAIMOTORSHOW.COM
Organised by
Official Tire
Official Airline Partner
Official Event
DUBAIMOTORSHOW
Official Event Partners
Official Courier Handler
DXBMOTORSHOW
Promotion Partner
Event TV Partner
Official Music Partner
Official Publisher
Official Travel Partner
Distribution Partners
DUBAIMOTORSHOW
Adventure tours
and desert safaris
Bike and Hike Oman, PO Box 833, Ruwi,

Postal Code 112, Oman, +968 24400873,
www.bikeandhikeoman.com
Dolphin Qasab Tours, PO Box: 123, P.C.
QATAR DIRECTORY
Adventure tours and desert
safaris
Al Mulla Travels, PO Box: 4147, Doha, Qatar,

+974 44413488, almullatrvls@qatar.net.qa
Alpha Tours, PO Box: 13530, Doha, Qatar,
+974 4837815, info@alphatoursqatar.com
Al QAYED Travel & Tours, PO Box: 158,
Doha, Qatar, +974 44072244,
www.alqayedtravel.com
Arabian Adventures, PO Box: 4476, Doha,
Qatar, +974 44361461,
www.arabianadventureqatar.net
Black Pearls Tourism Services,
PO Box: 45677, Doha, Qatar
East Marine, West Bay, Doha, Qatar,
+974 55200078
E2E Qatar Travel and Tours,
PO Box: 23563, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44502521, www.e2eqatar.com
Falcon Travels, PO Box: 22031, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44354777, www.falcontravelqatar.com
Gulf Adventures, 29, PO Box: 18180 Qatar,
+974 44221888, www.gulf-adventures.com
Net Tours Qatar, PO Box: 23080, Doha,
Qatar, +974 4310902, www.nettours.com.qa
Regency Travel & Tours, +974 4434
4503/4718, www.regencyholidays.com
Qatar Adventure, PO Box: 13915,
Doha, Qatar, +974 55694561,
www.qataradventure.com
Qatar Desert Gate, Doha, PO Box: 18496
Ad Dawha, Qatar, +974 55594016,
www.qatardesertgate.com
Qatar Inbound Tours, PO Box: 21153,
+974 77451196,
www.inboundtoursqatar.com
Qatar International Tours, PO Box: 55733
Doha, Qatar, +974 44551141,
www.qittour.com
Qatar Ventures, Doha, Qatar, +974
55776679, www.qatar-ventures.com
Clubs
Cycling, Running & Triathlon

Doha Sailing Club, Katara Beach
+974 44439840/+974 55649995
www.qmsf.com
SkiDubai, Dubai, Mall of The Emirates,

+971 44094000, www.skidxb.com
Spacewalk Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi,
+971 24463653, www.spacewalk.ae
811, Khasab City, Musandam, Oman,

+968 26730813,
www.dolphinkhasabtours.com
Go Dive Oman, Capital Area Yacht Club
(CAYC), Sidab Muscat, +968 99289200,
www.godiveoman.com
Nomad Tours, PO Box: 583, Postal Code
100, Muscat, Oman, +968 95495240,
www.nomadtours.com
Oman Trekking Guides, PO Box: 917,
NIZWA, Oman, +968 95741441,
www.omantrekkingguides.com
+968 99877957, www.musandam-diving.com

Global Scuba LLC, +968 24692346,
www.global-scuba.com
Moon Light Dive Center, P.O. Box: 65,
Madinat Qaboos, Muscat Oman,
+968 99317700, www.moonlightdive.com
Oman Dive Center Resort, PO Box: 199,
Medinat Sultan Qaboos, Oman,
+968 24824240, www.omandivecenter.info
Omanta Scuba Diving Academy, Al Kharjiya
Street, Al Shati Area, Muscat, Oman, +968
97700564, www.omantascuba.com
Oxygen Diving and Adventures, PO Box:
1363 PC130 Alazaiba, Muscat, Oman,
www.o2diveoman.com
Seaoman, PO Box: 2394, RUWI PC 112,
Oman, +968 24181400, www.seaoman.com
Sub Aqua Dive Center, Hilton Salalah
Resort, PO Box: 699, Salalah 211, Oman,
+968 99894031,
www.subaqua-divecenter.com
Omans Kite Center, +968 94006007,

www.kitesurfing-lessons.com
Stand Up Paddeling, Kite

& Surfing, Wakeboarding
Manufacturer
Saphire Marine, PO Box: 11, Post Code 118,
Muscat, Oman, +968 99877243,
www.sapphire-marine.com
Equipment
Al Marsa Musandam, PO Box: 44, Dibba,
Sultanate of Oman, +968 26836550,
www.almarsamusandam.com
Al Sawadi Beach Resort, PO Box: 747,
Barka - Al Sawadi, Oman, +968 26795545,
www.alsawadibeach.info
Diving UAE & Oman,
www.dive-uae-oman.com
Euro Divers CAYC Oman, Marina Bandar Al
Rhowda, PO Box: 940, Muscat, Oman,
+968 95035815, www.euro-divers.com
Extra Divers Musandam, PO Box: 498,
PC 811 Khasab, Musandam, Oman,
Qatar Chain Reaction,

www.qatarchainreaction.weebly.com
Qatar Sandstromers, +974 77775207
/ +974 77776634, www.facebook.com/
QatarSandstormers
Velostar Doha, https://www.facebook.com/
groups/587539064642288/
Doha Bay Running Club,
www.dohabayrunningclub.com
TriClub Doha, www.triclubdoha.com
General Sports
Equipment Megastores
Galaxy Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor,

Qatar: +974 44822194; Villagio Mall, Qatar:
+974 44569143; Ezdan Mall, Qatar: +974
44922827, www.galaxysportqatar.com
GO Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor, Qatar:
+974 44631644; Villaggio Mall, Qatar:
+974 44517574,
www.facebook.com/gosport.qatar
Sun & Sand Sports, City Centre Mall, Qatar:
+974 44837007; Dar Al Salam Mall, Qatar:
+974 44932973,
www.sunandsandsports.com
Boating & Sailing
Equipment
Regatta Sailing Academy, Katara Beach
+974 55503484
www.regattasailingacademy.com
Speed Marine, Speed Marine, Museum
Road, PO Box: 9145 Doha, Qatar, +974
44410109, www.speedmarinegroup.com
Horse Riding
Equestrian Clubs/Centres
Al Shaqab, PO Box: 90055, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44546320, www.alshaqab.com
Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club, Racing
and Equestrian Club, PO Box: 7559, Doha,
Qatar, +974 44197664, www.qrec.gov.qa
Diving
Equipment/Centres
Al Fardan Marine Services, Najma Street
(near Al Fardan Exchange), Doha, Qatar,
+974 44435626
Doha Sub Aqua Club, Doha Sub-Aqua Club,
Add your free listing to the

74
OUTDOORUAE
Dusseldorf Business Point, Al Barsha 1,

Dubai, +971 44502418, www.sltme.com
Sport and Health Centres
Bespoke Wellness, Dubai,
+971 553724670, www.bespoke-wellness.com
Original Fitness Co., C6 Tower Al Bateen
Bainunah St, Abu Dhabi, +971 2406 9404,
www.originalfitnessco.com
Orthosports, 5B Street, Jumeira Beach road,
Dubai, +971 4355060, www.orthosp.com
The Physio Center, Suite 405, Building 49,
Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai,
+971 44370570, www.physiocentre.ae
Childrens City, Creek Park Gate No.1,

Dubai, +971 43340808, www.childrencity.ae
Dolphin Bay Atlantis, Dubai,
+971 44260000, www.atlantisthepalm.ae
Dubai Dolphinarium Dubai, Creek Park Gate
No. 1, +971 43369773,
www.dubaidolphinarium.ae
iFly Dubai, Dubai, Mirdif City Centre,
+971 42316292, www.iflyme.com
Sadiyaat Beach Club, Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat
Island, +971 25578000, www.sbgolfclub.ae
Sharjah Golf and Shooting Club, Sharjah,
+971 43999005, www.golfandshootingshj.com
Diving
OMAN DIRECTORY
Health, Safety & Training
Safety Lessons
Marine Concept Yacht Charter
& Sea School, Rania Business Centre,
Dubai, +971 559603030,
www.marine-charter-concept.com
Safety & Leisure Training Middle East,
Equipment, Operators
Kiteboarding Oman, Sawadi Beach,
PO Box: 133, PC 118, Muscat, Oman,
+968 96323524, www.kiteboarding-oman.com

+974 66304061, www.dohasubaquaclub.com
Extreme Adventure, PO Box: 33002, Shop
3, 4 Ahmed Bin Ali Street (Bin Omran), Doha,
Qatar, +974 44877884, www.extreme.qa
GoSport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor,
Qatar: +974 44631644; Villagio Mall,
Qatar: +974 44517574,
www.facebook.com/gosport.qatar
Pearl Divers, PO Box: 2489, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44449553, www.pearl-divers.org
Poseidon Dive Center, Ras Abu Abboud
Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2,
+974 66084040, www.pdcqatar.com
Qatar Scuba Center, 187 Al Mansoura
Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar,
+974 66662277, www.qatarscubacenter.com
Q Dive, Souq Al Najada cnr of Grand Hamad
and Ali bin Abdulla Str.; Al-Odeid Aisle
numbers 129-132, +974 55319507,
www.qdive.net
World Marine Centre, PO Box: 6944,
Doha, Qatar, +974 44360989,
www.worldmarinecenter.webs.com
Pearl Divers, Al Mirqab Al Jadeed Street,
Doha, Qatar,
+974 4444 9553, www.pearl-divers.org
Poseidon Dive Center, Ras Abu Abboud
Street, Al Emadi Suites, Showroom #2,
+974 66084040, www.pdcqatar.com
Qatar Divers, Marriott Hotel Marina Near Old
Airport, Ras Abu Aboud Area, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44313331, www.qatardivers.com
Qatar Marine, Go Sport City Center
West Bay, PO Box: 16657, Doha,
+974 553199507, www.qatarmarine.net
Qatar Scuba Centre, 187 Al Mansoura
Street, Al Mansoura Area, Doha, Qatar,
+974 66662277 / +974 44422234,
www.qatarscubacenter.com
Qdive Marine Center, PO Box: 16657, Doha,
Qatar, +974 44375065, www.qdive.net
World Marine Centre, Old Salata Street,
near the Qatar National Museum, Doha,
Qatar, +974 55508177
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment
Al Kashat, Fishing and Hunting Equipment,
Souq Waqif, next to the Falcon Souq,
Camping & Hiking
Tour Operators
Safari Desert Camp,
PO Box: 117, Postal Code 421,
Bediyah, Ghabbi, Oman,
+968 99310108,
www.safaridesert.com
Fishing & Kayaking
Equipment
AzZaha Tours, +968 99013424,
www.azzahatours.com
Water World Marine Oman,
POBox:76,Muscat,113,Sultanate
ofOman, +96824737438,
www.waterworldoman.com
Boating & Sailing
+974 66724828
Al Mamzoore Marine Equipment,
PO Box: 6449,Old Salata, Doha, Qatar, +974
44444238, almamzoore@qatar.net.qa
Extreme Adventure, Shop 3,4 Ahmed Bin Ali
Steet, Doha, +974 44877884,
www.extreme.qa
Fish World, PO Box: 1975, Doha, Qatar,
+974 44340754
State of Qatar (QatarSub), Souq Waqif,
next to the Falcon Souq, +974 4431234,
www.stateofqatar.com
Operators
Paddle Qatar, +974 55490895,
www.paddleqatar.com
Entalek, +974 3023 3207, www.entalek.org
Motocross & ATVs

Dealers
Qatar Adventures, Barwa Village, Building

# 9 Shop # 11, Doha, Qatar, +974 77700074
Stand Up Paddeling, Kite

& Surfing, Wakeboarding
Equipment, Operators
Fly-N-Ride, Ras abu Aboud, Doha,
+974 33117089, www.fly-n-ride.com
Flo Kite School, Westbay, Doha,
+974 55041039, www.flokiteschool.com
Kitesurfing Qatar, +97430179108,
www.kitesurfingqatar.com
QSUP, Qanat Quartier, Costa Malaz,
The Pearl-Qc, Doha, Qatar, +974 66602830,
www.qsup.me
Cycling (Road & Off Road)
Bike Servicing, Equipment

Carbon Wheels Bike Shop, Al Maha Center
10, Salwa Road, Doha, +974 44419048,
www.facebook.com/CarbonWheelsQTR
Flash Bike Shop, Mesaeed New Souq, Shop
C.06, +974 6600 9116,
www.flashbikeshop.com
Skate Shack, Salwa Road, South Doha,
+974 44692532, www.skate-shack.com
Galaxy Sport, City Centre Mall, 3rd Floor,
+974 44822194; Villaggio Mall, +974 4456
9143; Ezdan Mall, +974 4492 2827,
www.galaxysportqatar.com;
Sportswell, Salwa Road, South Doha,
+974 40165155 / 40165156
ONLINE DIRECTORY
Available at
Distributed by Sport In Life Distribution
+971 4 289 6001
info@sportinlife.ae
sportinlife.ae

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PIMP YOUR RIDE!

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