The Abu Dhabi Maritime Sports Club has officially opened registration for the highly anticipated “Yasat” sailing races for 60-foot dhows and the “Qafay” sailing races for 22-foot dhows. These events will take place as part of the Yasat Maritime Festival, organized in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Scheduled to occur over two phases from December 12 to 14 and again from December 19 to 21, the races promise excitement and competition for participants and spectators alike.
A New Race Course for Challenging Waters
This year’s races feature a novel course that marks the first time participants will embark from Delma Island, navigating through Yasat Island and concluding at the Al Sila area. Spanning a total of 37 nautical miles (approximately 70 kilometers), this course places a strong emphasis on traditional seamanship skills, presenting longer distances for challengers in the 60-foot dhow category.
Enhancing Tradition and Competitiveness
The organizing committee highlighted that the adoption of this new course is part of an effort to advance traditional maritime racing and enhance its presence in historically significant marine environments. It aims to elevate competitiveness among sailors by requiring high levels of navigational skills in this longer-distance racing format. The significant interest in the “Yasat” races underscores their esteemed status among both sailors and participants.
A Commitment to Heritage and Sustainability
The committee stated, “The 60-foot Yasat sailing race reflects our commitment to supporting and sustaining traditional races by adopting longer maritime routes that align with the traditional navigation practiced by seafarers in the UAE.” The new course from Delma to Al Sila aims to provide participants with a heightened competitive experience and reinforces maritime heritage within national events.
Final Details to be Announced Soon
As the festival approaches, the organizing committee is set to finalize the race dates, with an announcement expected later this week following the completion of all necessary logistical and technical arrangements. Participants eagerly await further information as they prepare for this traditional racing spectacle.