Abu Dhabi on Wednesday was confirmed as the venue for the ISAF Sailing World Cup Final until 2019, but there are no Emiratis among the elite sailors battling in 10 medal categories over the next four days at the Corniche.
The only Emirati sailor eligible to be among the world's best is Olympian Adil Khalid, but he is aboard Azzam, the Abu Dhabi boat leading the Volvo Ocean Race.
Abdullah Al Oaidli, general secretary of the UAE Sailing and Yacht Federation, said that staging the finale of the ISAF race series in the capital city for six years should serve as a catalyst to develop local sailors.
“We have some young and talented up-and-coming sailors, and they can watch and learn from the world’s best when they compete in Abu Dhabi,” Al Obaidli said.
“The ISAF have taken the lead to encourage some of these sailors to visit schools and also share their experience and expertise with some of our young sailors.
“So it won’t be long before we have a few Emiratis at this level in the future.
“For us, to stage an event of this calibre is an honour and already an achievement. This is a good start and the rest of the things – like having an Emirati presence – will follow.
“Sailing is also in the culture of the country and it is quite popular among the youth. We already have a good number, but it will take some time for them to raise their levels.
“We expect the ISAF Sailing World Cup final to pave the way for our youth.”
The UAE has had two drivers competing in the UIM Formula 1 powerboat for more than two decades, and they have won multiple world championship titles in offshore racing.
Khalid is participating in his second Volvo Ocean Race.
So it may only be a matter of time before the Emiratis join the elite sailors in the world circuit.
Abu Dhabi waters present a new test
For the majority of those in the ISAF Sailing World Cup Final, this week marks their first visit to Abu Dhabi and the event will provide a test in uncharted waters.
Those arriving from Europe are relishing the warmth and the sun on their backs.
None of it will matter when they take to the water with 10 gold medals and US$200,000 (Dh734,640) up for grabs across the four days, starting today at noon.
“It is really awesome to be here from the cold in Sweden. I was out there in the waters and the conditions for sailing are marvellous,” said Bjorn Allansson, who competes in the Finn class.
“I am here for the challenge and, like everyone else, to win both the glory and a share of the prize money.
“That said, I understand everybody will have the same objectives, which obviously will turn the races into tough and exciting contests.”
Ivan Kljakovic Gaspic, the two-time Finn class Olympian, said he liked the waters after yesterday’s practice session.
“It was quite light and a typical sea breeze,” the Croatian said.
“The forecast is showing something more for the upcoming days, so we’re going to have some good racing and I hope it’s going to be great.
“The water looks nice and it looks really refreshing for this time of the year.
“To come to a venue and country like this, it is a new horizon for us sailors. I have never sailed in such a place and such a country.
“It’s new and everybody is excited, and likewise, I cannot wait to get started.”
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