2011 Muscat Regatta at Marina Bandar Al-Rowdha - Preview

The largest sailing regatta in the Arabian Peninsular with a US$50,000 prize fund is now in its third year.

Firmly established as one of Oman’s major sporting events, the Muscat Regatta provides a wonderful opportunity for close to one hundred aspiring sailors from all over Oman to compete against international opposition at a spectacular venue.

”The Muscat Regatta is a special occasion full of enjoyment and celebration. Omanis have an affinity with the sea; we are all born close to the ocean and have been seafarers for thousands of years. The regatta is not only the highlight of the season for all of the participants but also for Marina Bandar Al Rowhda. To see the young Omani sailors enjoying the event with other competitors from all over the world fills the marina with such joy.” Commented Saleem Q. Al Zawawi, Chairman of the Muscat Regatta.

Hosted by the Marina Bandar Al-Rowdha, in association with the Oman Ministry of Sports Affairs and Ministry of Tourism. The 2011 Muscat Regatta includes inshore racing for yachts and dinghies on the 24th – 25th November followed by the 230-mile offshore Chairman's Cup Race from Muscat to Khasab, starting on the 26th November. Title sponsorship is once again generously provided by the Bank of Beirut.

The Muscat Regatta is very much geared towards promoting young Omanis, mostly in their teenage years, who aspire to join the elite sailors from the Sultanate that compete at Grand Prix sailing events throughout the world. However, a significant number of international sailors are also competing, giving the regatta a very competitive edge.

International race management team, GWM Racing has again been appointed as regatta and race management consultants. The fleet of approximately 50 boats is separated into several different classes including Hobie Cats, Lasers and RS Q’BAs. The Farr 30 fleet will not only race in the inshore event but also offshore with other keelboats to compete for the Chairman’s Cup. With a prize fund of US$ 50,000, the 230-mile race to Khasab has attracted an international field of sailors from all over the world including; Australia, Germany, Great Britain, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Oman.

Marina Bandar Al-Rowdha is a perfect winter sailing venue. Located in an awe inspiring bay just outside Muscat, the modern marina has world-class facilities with births for over 100 yachts and well maintained and equipped hard-standing and maintenance facilities. The fully licensed Blue Marlin Restaurant is renowned for its excellent facilities, service and menu throughout the region.

Established in 2008, the sailing school has fully ISAF qualified ISAF instructors and larger yacht charter is available to explore Oman’s stunning coastline. 30ºC air and sea temperature from October to April are typical, as is a warm Omani welcome.

For more information about the Muscat Regatta visit www.muscatregatta.com