A link with the past as dhows race to Dubai

Dubai Marina is bracing itself for the arrival of an armada of traditional sailing dhows with the 20th staging of the Sur Bin Na'air long-distance race.

DUBAI // Dubai Marina is bracing itself for the arrival of an armada of traditional sailing dhows this afternoon with the 20th staging of the popular season-ending Sur Bin Na'air long-distance race. The 54-nautical-mile event has grown in stature since its inception in 1991 and up to 100 vessels, all conforming to the traditional 60-foot specifications, were due to make their way to the remote island yesterday for what promises to be a spectacular start early this morning.

The annual regatta attempts to turn back the clock to mark the UAE's history as a sea-faring nation and it brings generations of families together. Several families will have more than one boat competing. There will be battles of pride between fathers and sons or brothers against brothers. Crews for the distinctive wooden vessels were originally made up of the older sailor, but during the 20 years of competition more and more youngsters have become involved and taken their first steps towards a possible sailing career.

Dubai International Marine Club (DIMC) has been organising the race since the club was formed in 1995. Saeed Harib, DIMC"s chief executive, oversees the race, which involves many sectors of the government. It has become a massive organisational operation involving landing craft, TV, virtual-eye technology, catering, international media, satellite communication, a hospital boat and paramedics, coastguard, police, and helicopter.

Sheikh Hamdan is an enthusiastic supporter of the annual extravaganza. He makes a point to join the race each year and attend the press conferences. Over 3,500 people were expected to make their way to Sur Bin Na'air yesterday either to take part or help with the smooth running of the race which will be heavily reliant on a decent Arabian Gulf breeze. [e-mail]