48 February 2013 www.bahrainthismonth.com happeningssportsrecreation Competition is often the essence of progress; this regional sailing race aims to develop the region’s prowess on the high seas and to create a wave of interest in the sport. A regional sailing race returns for the third year bigger and better then ever before. ‘Sailing Arabia, The Tour’ will deliver 15 days of action across four countries and seven marinas located at some of the most outstanding waterfront projects in the region. The race starts in our very own island, at Amwaj Marina, and will continue on to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates before heading to Muscat, Oman, for the closing ceremony. “Bahrain has a proud tradition of seafaring and sailing runs in the blood of the people here,” says David Graham, CEO of race organisers Oman Sail. “Interest in sailing is at an all-time high and the event will demonstrate the benefits that the sport can bring to communities in the GCC, including youth training and economic development, as well as general health and fitness.” What started as an alternative Middle Eastern event to the Tour de France à la Voile has now turned into a sporting endeavour that attracts some of the best sailing talent from around the world. Launched in 2011, the race promotes the Gulf’s fastest-growing sport and reconnects the region to its rich maritime heritage. This year the competition is fiercer than ever and, with perfect weather conditions expected, sees a 50 per cent increase in participants. Several of the nine teams who competed in 2012 return, including five of the six GCC nations. Oman’s own Team Renaissance is lead by a new star skipper, Omani sailing sensation Mohsin Al Busaidi — the first Arab to sail around the world. Pioneering British yachtswoman Dee Caffari has also returned, but this time as a coach of the women’s sailing team. Other participants include newcomers Team Messe Frankfurt and a group of talented young skippers from the UK’s University of Plymouth. To foster an even match up all teams will be competing in a fleet of identical Farr 30 keelboats, one of the most exciting boats on the sailing grand prix circuit. The identical boats means skill and not technology will determine the result. “The tour is designed not only to showcase the talent we have here but also to encourage friendly rivalry between GCC nations,” adds David. “This healthy competition inspires a new generation of youngsters and puts us on the international sporting map.” Together with perfect conditions for racing and first-class in-port facilities, the organisers anticipate another excellent showcase of maritime skills from some of the region’s best sailors. E Visit www.sailingarabiathetour.com. Hoist Your Sail When? February 10-25 | Event? Sailing tour | Venue? Amwaj Marina When? February 6-28 Event? Snooker tournament Venue? Bapco Club The country’s top players take their cues for the championship cup. E Call 39 692-777. When? February 7-21 Event? Tennis championship Venue? Bahrain Tennis Club Annual BBK Junior Open Tennis championship is back in town. E Call 36 333-720. When? February 7-22 Event? Ten-pin bowling tournament Venue? Bapco Club Amazing cash prizes are up for grabs at this Zain-sponsored event. E Call 39 692-777. When? February 10-25 Event? Sailing tour Venue? Amwaj Marina The region’s top sailing teams go head-to-head around the Gulf. E Visit www. sailingarabiathetour.com. When? February 13-14 Event? Golfing events Venue? Royal Golf Club Keep your calendars open for a series of championships and events. E Call 17 750-777. When? February 18 Event? Horse racing Venue? Rashid Equestrian and Horseracing Club The Shaikh Khalid Trophy scouts for the country’s finest horse riders. E Visit www.khalidcup.com. When? February 22 Event? Cricket competition Venue? TBA An exciting tournament organised by the Rotary Club of Adliya. E Visit Facebook.com/ rotaryadliya. When? March 1 Event? Football tournament Venue? Bahrain Rugby Football Club The annual Rotary Club of Manama charity tournament returns. E Call 17 534-002.
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