Sharjah 24 – Shafeeq Omar:
On Saturday, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the Sharjah Media Council, honoured the winners of the second edition of the Sir Bani Yas Sailing Dhows Race 2026 as well as the inaugural Sir Bani Yas Challenge for Sharjah Government Employees, held on the shores of Al Heirah.
Winners of the Sailing Competition
The “Zalzal” dhow, led by Captain Marwan Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouqi, claimed first place in the local 60-foot sailing dhows category. The second position was secured by “Hashim,” helmed by Captain Hassan Abdullah Mohammed Al Marzouqi, while “Al Tef,” steered by Captain Yusuf Ahmad Mohammed Al Hamadi, took third place.
Government Employees’ Challenge
In the Sir Bani Yas Challenge for Sharjah Government Employees, the first place was awarded to the Sharjah Police Academy Team. The General Command of Sharjah Police Team followed in second place, with the Sharjah Civil Defence Authority Team clinching third place.
Acknowledgements and Partnerships
Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi also recognised the sponsors and partners of the event, expressing gratitude for their roles in the competition’s success by presenting them with commemorative trophies.
A Thriving Participation
This year’s edition of the Sir Bani Yas Sailing Dhows Race witnessed the participation of 71 sailing dhows and over 1,000 sailors and captains. The prize pool for the race reached an impressive 3 million dirhams, while the challenge for government employees offered rewards totalling 70,000 dirhams.
Event Organisers
The races were organised by the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, represented by Sharjah Sports Channel, in collaboration with the Sharjah International Marine Club. This event is part of a comprehensive programme designed to blend sports, heritage, and community engagement, furthering the presence of traditional marine sports within all societal groups.
Observations and Future Aspirations
Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi watched part of the Sir Bani Yas Sailing Dhows Race alongside several events from the Sir Bani Yas Challenge. The intense competition demonstrated the strong connection between marine sports and the festival’s role in supporting and encouraging youth participation, aligning with the overarching goals of preserving environmental and natural life.
Expressions of Gratitude
During the event, Mohammed Majid Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Sports Channel, conveyed his deepest thanks to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for his generous sponsorship and unwavering support of sports and heritage. He asserted that this commitment enhances Sharjah’s position as a hub for initiatives that unite the past’s authenticity with future ambitions.
Commitment to Heritage and Sports
Al Suwaidi also acknowledged Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi for his presence and honouring of the winners, as well as his continued support for media and sports initiatives that elevate Sharjah and its institutions across various areas. He emphasised the importance of partnerships between institutions in sustaining heritage and national events, reflecting Sharjah’s identity and message, and responding to the aspirations of its audience.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, the Director of Sharjah Sports Channel expressed appreciation to all sponsors and participants involved in the race. The event was rounded off with a presentation featuring highlights from the Sir Bani Yas Sailing Dhows Race and the Challenge, showcasing the fierce competition among participants and their passion for marine sports.
Accompanying Sheikh Dr. Sultan were several dignitaries, including Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority and President of the Sharjah International Marine Club, along with other notable officials.