DUBAI // The second round of the UIM XCat Middle East Championships in Dubai will take place a day earlier in an attempt to avoid the predicted heavy winds this weekend, according to race organisers.
The powerboat committee at the Dubai International Marine Club met this morning to prepare for the second round of the series and have taken caution to the weather. The event will now be moved forward to Thursday February 3 at 11am.
Drivers had been alerted to possible changes during the first round in Abu Dhabi last week.
"We will be watching the weather and sea state very closely," said Mohammed Hareb, the race officer. "We have 19 entries from eight countries competing, which is a really good field especially with only four seconds dividing 1st and 2nd place."
Driver Arif al Zafeen and throttleman Nadir bin Hendi fuelled Fazza 3 to victory last Saturday completing the Abu Dhabi course in just over 31 minutes. Rashid Khalifah al Marri and Salem Fadhel al Hamli driving for Extreme Marine took second place.
The extreme 30ft catamarans are powered by two 280hp one-design outboard engines and are governed by the rules of the UIM, the international body for motorised watersports. The boats can reach speeds of 185kph.
There are four rounds in the championship. After this weekend's race, the next will be in Abu Dhabi on March 19 and the final will be held in Dubai on March 25.
Five expert hiking tips
Always check the weather forecast before setting off
Make sure you have plenty of water
Set off early to avoid sudden weather changes in the afternoon
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
Take your litter home with you
Key figures in the life of the fort
Sheikh Dhiyab bin Isa (ruled 1761-1793) Built Qasr Al Hosn as a watchtower to guard over the only freshwater well on Abu Dhabi island.
Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab (ruled 1793-1816) Expanded the tower into a small fort and transferred his ruling place of residence from Liwa Oasis to the fort on the island.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Shakhbut (ruled 1818-1833) Expanded Qasr Al Hosn further as Abu Dhabi grew from a small village of palm huts to a town of more than 5,000 inhabitants.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Shakhbut (ruled 1833-1845) Repaired and fortified the fort.
Sheikh Saeed bin Tahnoon (ruled 1845-1855) Turned Qasr Al Hosn into a strong two-storied structure.
Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa (ruled 1855-1909) Expanded Qasr Al Hosn further to reflect the emirate's increasing prominence.
Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan (ruled 1928-1966) Renovated and enlarged Qasr Al Hosn, adding a decorative arch and two new villas.
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan (ruled 1966-2004) Moved the royal residence to Al Manhal palace and kept his diwan at Qasr Al Hosn.
Sources: Jayanti Maitra, www.adach.ae
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How to protect yourself when air quality drops
Install an air filter in your home.
Close your windows and turn on the AC.
Shower or bath after being outside.
Wear a face mask.
Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.
If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.