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‘Fighting it out has made me stronger’

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‘Fighting it out has made me stronger’
TNN / Sumit Mukherjee

If things go according to the script, Sourav Ganguly will step on the Melbourne Cricket Ground turf to play his 100th Test on Wednesday. TOI caught up with the ‘Bengal Tiger’ in Melbourne for a heart-to-heart chat.

Excerpts…

Looking back on your career, are you happy with what you have achieved?

I have enjoyed some very good times and also gone through tough periods. What’s important is that I have been lucky to be a part of Indian cricket during one of its most successful phases. It’s easily the high point of my career.

Have you seen many changes in Indian cricket during your time?

A lot of things have changed since I made my Test debut in 1996, especially in terms of training and approach to the game. I have no doubt in my mind that it’s because of these changes that our performances overseas have improved.

You have been a part of a core group of exceptionally talented players. Did you enjoy the ride?

It has been a privilege to play alongside people like Anil Kumble, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman, for they are special players. Together we have seen Indian cricket progress. The period between 2000 till the end of the Pakistan series in 2004 was easily one of the most successful periods in contemporary Indian cricket. It was also during this period that we were as successful overseas as we were at home.

Of the two comebacks you have made in your remarkable career, which was more difficult, the one in 1996 or 2006?

Returning to the fold in South Africa last year was the biggest challenge of my career. In 1992 when I was dropped after just one ODI on the tour of Australia, I was still very young. After returning, I was happy playing in the Ranji Trophy. At 20, age was on my side. However, when I got left out in 2005 it was tough. When I came back in 2006, I needed to find out for myself that I was still good enough to keep performing at the top level.

What did life in the wilderness teach you?

I realised that there is an entirely different life beyond cricket. It helped to settle my mind. It was a tough phase, but fighting it out helped me to emerge stronger.

Do you have anything left to prove?

Contrary to the popular belief, I have never tried to prove or disprove anything. Every time I enter a cricket ground I just want to reassure myself that I belong at this level. Even today, I need to constantly reassure myself that I am mentally, physically and technically strong to meet the challenges of international cricket.

In the days of image makeovers, you seem to have reconstructed your batting technique…

Nothing major. I just made a few adjustments to my stance and grip. Now that I am no longer the captain, my mind is a lot free and I have more time on my hands. I use it to keep working on my game.

How big a deal is it to be Indian captain?

It’s a great honour and a huge responsibility. I feel every captain has a shelf life. No one can do the job indefinitely because it takes a lot out of you. In India, a captain has to deal with so many things that sometimes he has no time to think about his game.

How do you assess your own captaincy?

I have always felt that wickets overseas are much better than in India. So, to win abroad, we needed a few good seamers to support our two world-class spinners. Of course, we also needed runs on the board. It was, therefore important to make the players believe in their own ability. It was also important to pick players who we thought would do well overseas and persist with them. That helped us as these players played freely and delivered.

So you are happy to be out of the captaincy equation?

Let’s put it this way, the pressure on a captain has increased manifold since I first took of the reins of the team. Rahul and Anil must have found that out by now.

How would you like to be remembered?

As someone who played a small role in showing the world that India is no longer a pushover while playing overseas.

You must be looking forward to playing your 100th Test match. How will it be different?

I don’t think it will feel any different, but of course, it will be hugely satisfying. I am preparing for it just as I normally do for any other match. It will be an important landmark in my career and I will strive to make the occasion more memorable.

How has cricket shaped your persona?

Had I not played this wonderful sport, I wouldn’t have been able to experience or know half the things in the world. Not only has cricket taken me all over the world, it has also taught me how to handle pressure and criticism. I also would not have been able to savour the sweetness of success. It’s been a huge learning process.

Have you visualised your life after cricket?

I have travelled a lot. Probably I will play for some more time, which will include some more travelling as well. I will have to wait and see how I feel mentally by the time I finish. I want to stay at home for some time, with my daughter.

All for fun and fun for all

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All for fun and fun for all By Cindy L Bailey, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59

Families in the UAE are spoilt for choice when settling for
a weekend of serious fun.

A hard week in office demands a fun weekend. Now, having fun may be a state of mind in some hick town due to a lack of options, but not in the UAE. Dubai and the other emirates throw up seemingly endless opportunities for the family for a weekend of fun and frolic. Seek and you shall find.

Whether it’s spending time at the many beaches or parks in Dubai, visiting the exciting water parks or enjoying the adrenalin rush while indulging in some serious dune bashing in one of the seven emirates in your four wheel or on an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle), the UAE prides itself in having something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Clare Hadley, mother of two children, Alexander, four, and Daniel, one, says, “As my boys are so young I can only really take them to the beach. We are quite limited to what we can participate in due to their age.

“Parks are great, Alexander likes to ride his bike (in the park.).
There are so many things to do in Dubai. There are a lot of options, although we tend to observe rather than join in. There are powerboat and hot air balloon shows. They all cater well for children. We do like to go to the Jebel Ali Sailing Club, the boys can play in the pool and play with the other children there.”

Kay Robinson, mother of Summer-Jane, seven, and Megan, five, shares what she does to keep her daughters entertained. “My girls love the beach. They love to build sand castles and play in the sea. Wild Wadi is also one of their favourite haunts. I’m happy to take them wherever they can get fresh air, I don’t like to keep them inside all day. Dubai’s weather is great and I like to take full advantage of that, obviously we have to be very careful during the summer months, but on the whole I like to involve them in anything that keeps them active.”

The beach isn’t just for children as parents can also take advantage by sitting back and relaxing while watching their children play and enjoy the sun, sand and sea.

Andrew Kirk, a Dubai resident, is father of Jessica, 11, and Adam, nine and describes what his family likes to do in their free time.

“The beach is always a popular choice with my kids, they never get bored with it. Whether they are playing soccer, volleyball or just rolling in the waves, they are always entertained. And it’s always nice for Sarah (his wife) and me to have some down time too.

“We always try and go to a water park once every few weeks. Now that the weather has cooled down we will be spending a lot more time on the beach, it was a little too hot for the kids during the summer. We could only take them before noon or after 3 pm. Our favourite water park is Wild Wadi with Juha’s Dhow being quite high in the popularity stakes.

“Of late, a personal favourite is spending the day at Dubai Creek Park. It has a great picnic area and we play rounders — Jessica and Adam love it. We have a great time. That is one of the things I love about Dubai. There are so many places that parents can spend quality time with their children.”

Wild Wadi is not the only water park where families can enjoy quality time together, Wonderland, Dubai, also includes a family water park.

“The park is divided into three areas: the main street that includes a special water mist cinema show, (films are projected on to a thin layer of water) the theme park that has roller coasters, go carts and restaurants, and Splashland water park with a host of water-based activities and pastimes to keep the whole family amused. The park also offers a ‘families only’ special on Thursdays.

“Wonderland is a family favourite. It’s an amusement park and water park rolled into one and keeps my whole family entertained; we love spending the odd weekend there,” says Marcus Bumby, father of two children, Cameron Reece, eight, and Annalise, four.

“My son loves to play football, so I take him to the park or beach most days after school. I am very conscious about keeping my children active. I want them both to be as healthy as possible and I believe an active lifestyle will ensure that.

“I don’t really like them playing videogames and watching TV all the time so my wife and I try to rustle up activities that involve them. Annalise loves to just join in with anything that Cameron does, whether it’s kicking a ball around on the beach or playing at the park.”

Great Outdoors – A mountain playground

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A mountain playground
By Shikha Mishra, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59

The rugged landscape of Ras Al Kaimah draws avid trekkers and sports enthusiasts.

“We perceived the town of Ras el Khyma rising from the water line at the foot of lofty mountains.”
— JS Buckingham, 1825. (From the book A Portrait of Ras Al Khaimah, by Shirley Kay)

Driving down the highway to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) can be a surreal experience as the rush hour traffic jam in Sharjah melts into stark rocky mountains and miles of sand dunes. However, not all the topography of this emirate is desolate and barren. Lush green fields, wadis over-run with fresh water, gurgling waterfalls – RAK has earned its title of outdoor playground as hundreds of adventure lovers flock to it looking for their next adrenalin rush.

“RAK is the only emirate where you can enjoy the mountains to the beach to the sand dunes within a 10-20 minute driving distance from one another,” says Nagarajan J Udupa, General Manager, Khatt Springs Hotel and Spa.

The hotel has tied up with RAK Events and promotes sand dune and mountain driving, desert safaris, sand surfing, camping in the desert, trekking and mountain biking in the emirate. “Overnight camping in the desert is very popular and it is safe as well. For the adventurous ones, RAK is the right place to be as long as all the safety precautions are taken,” says Udupa.

Among the numerous mountain biking trails in RAK, three major tracks start from the Khatt Hotel. “There are a numbers of wadis in the area, the most prominent being Wadi Bih, Wadi Tayeba and Wadi Oraiyah. In the Wadi Oraiyah area there is a spectacular waterfall,” says Udupa.

Mahesh Sarna, a 33-year-old banking professional based in Sharjah has driven his 4×4 through Wadi Aimah, a popular, but extremely tough route through the Hajjar mountains. “Wadi Asimah can be accessed through Ghail, a small village in RAK. The wadi offers mountain driving over all types of terrain and conditions – from deep green foliage to small water bodies to dreary rocks – it has it all,” says Sarna.

John Falchetto of Mountain Extreme, an RAK based eco-adventure company specialising in adventure tourism and sports, organises a hike to Shaikh Saoud’s Mountain Palace in RAK.

“This trek is the most popular right now. It offers a chance to climb to the highest peak in the area, Jebel Jays, and a chance to enjoy a breathtaking view of the valley below, which extends all the way to the Arabian Gulf. This hike is also a great way to reach the top of Jebel Jays also known as the Stairway to Heaven, without having to cross exposed ledges. This is not an easy trek, an effort of five to six hours is required to reach Shaikh Saud mountain palace, but the climb is worth the magnificent scenery at the top,” says Falchetto.

Khalifa Al Khatri of Aryam Tours says that the government is making an effort to promote tourism in RAK. “Wadi Bih is the most popular wadi in RAK. It has beautiful off-road driving options apart from stunning mountain views, and is great to drive through.

The mountains in RAK have a lot of potential — you can do biking, hiking, quad biking, desert safaris, camping, desert sports, walks and horse and camel riding. The costs range between Dh150 to about Dh450 depending on the size of the group. Water sports, fishing, snorkelling, and sea boat trips are also great options to enjoy the variety of sea activities that RAK offers,” he says. And then there is Mountain Day.

In 2003, the UN General Assembly designated December 11 as International Mountain Day. “International Mountain Day is an opportunity to create awareness about the importance of mountains, to highlight the opportunities and constraints in mountain development and to build partnerships that will bring a positive change to the world’s mountains and highlands,” says Falchetto. On December 14 Mountain Extreme led a hike into the hidden mountain villages of the UAE to celebrate this day and create awareness.

Hikers were able to visit an authentic Shihi mountain village with houses, animal pens, a wheat mill and terrace fields, besides getting to see water springs, artefacts, wooden doors and tools dating back hundreds of years. An option to explore the UAE’s highest peak, Jebel Yibir was also eagerly sought by avid hikers.

Apart from the mountains, the RAK beach is a popular venue for outdoor activities. The Hilton RAK has a diving centre, apart from activities such as fishing, boat trips, beach volleyball and football.

“Our main business comes from tour operators and the leisure market in the UAE. RAK is a great weekend destination and holidays such as Eid, Christmas and New Year apart from the long weekends get busy.

Our high season runs from November to the end of April because of the pleasant weather,” says Fadi Banat, Sales Manager, Hilton, RAK.

Great Outdoors – Park here!

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Park here!
By Esha Nag, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59

Dubai’s parks are the emirate’s breathing space.

The UAE, in spite of its desert topography and dry climate, has beautiful and well-maintained public parks that offer a host of facilities. The directives of the Dubai Government to increase the number of green areas have provided an additional incentive to the Dubai Municipality to implement various plantation projects all over the emirate.

Dubai’s parks have turned out to be the emirate’s breathing space, besides being major tourist attractions. Says Ahmad Mohammad Abdul Karim, Director of Public Parks and Horticulture Department, Dubai Municipality, “Dubai now has a total recreational area of nearly 600 hectares with six public parks, 19 residential parks, eight landscapes, 32 community facilities (playgrounds) and two open beaches.

“More such facilities are under construction and will continue to be undertaken by the municipality in order to meet the needs of Dubai’s residents.” Currently the most popular parks include the Safa Park, Zabeel Park, Al Mamzar Park, Jumeirah Beach Park, Dubai Creek Park and Mushrif Park.

By 2010 the Municipality intends to build 16 parks. These will include Nadd Al Hamr, Leisili, Hatta-1, Hatta-2, Al Barsha-2, Mamzar-2, Al Quoz, Al Nahda, Mirdiff 2, Al Warqa-2, Al Barsha-2, Al-Barsha-3 and Nadd Al Buhaira Pond Park.

“Public parks are a very important amenity, particularly in a city such as Dubai where so many residents live in apartments and do not have access to a garden. With the introduction of running surfaces around the perimeter of Safa and Zabeel Park, many people have taken to walking or jogging around the parks. The area is safe from traffic and there is plenty of parking space. The provision of toilets in the park is also very helpful,’ says Graham Rafferty, coordinator of the Dubai Road Runners.

The Dubai Road Runners meet every Saturday at 6.30pm in Safa Park.

“We also have events in Creek Park and Mushrif Park. Both are very pleasant to run in. A special running surface is currently under construction in Mushrif Park. I really feel we need more parks in Dubai because the traffic is heavy here and people don’t want to travel far to reach a park,” says Rafferty.

In order to maintain the beauty of the parks, the Public Parks and Horticulture Department has set up special organisational units to take care of maintenance and horticultural activities.

From horticultural maintenance to developing sports services as per the requirements of park visitors to cleaning services and privatisation, these units are responsible for the daily upkeep of these public spaces.

Says Deborah Dixon, who runs the Stride for Life aerobic walking and running programme at Safa Park: “In Dubai people work very hard and spend a lot of time commuting to and from work. This can be a fun, fast-paced life, but it can also be very isolating and physically and emotionally draining. Being near nature and other people can be a powerful stress reliever and mood booster.”

The Safa Park, Dixon feels, is a fantastic space in the heart of Dubai. “It is large enough to feel as though one has escaped from the city for a while. The park has wonderful trees and gardens, lakes and children’s play areas. The landscaping is such that there are areas suitable for field sports as well as hills, which will improve your fitness levels. There are also basketball and tennis courts here. We meet regularly at Safa. The outside pavement has been rubberised to provide an excellent shock absorbent surface on which to walk and run.”

Sharjah is also set to have 10 more public parks as part of a Dh15 million project to revamp its public spaces. The project, under the guidance of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, will also see the parks being used as venues for social events. The move aims at developing public park facilities, park expansions and landscape development.

In addition to its existing 35 parks, Sharjah Municipality is adding 10 new parks in the city, which will be fully equipped and designed to accommodate families and children.

Abu Dhabi also has several well-maintained parks, which reflect the commitment of the ruling family to the beautification of the city.

Most of the parks contain water features and children’s play areas.

The Abu Dhabi Municipality recently opened the Khalifa Park, a new recreational landmark in the UAE capital.

The 500,000-square-metre park can handle more than 5,000 people at a time. Its designs are inspired by Arabic and Islamic architecture and consist of various attractions, including gardens, party halls, a dedicated area for women and children with a swimming pool and an amphitheatre, all linked by a train.

The park’s museum traces the UAE’s history to the prehistoric era.

Parks of Dubai

Mamzar Park
Location: Mamzar residential area, on the extension of the corniche and Mamzar creek, neighbouring the main road that leads to Sharjah.

Facilities

— Modern, well-equipped and air-conditioned chalets with special areas assigned for barbecue and recreation. Charges for the big chalet are Dh200 a day, while a small chalet costs Dh150 a day. There are 15 chalets, which have parking nearby. The chalets are not furnished for sleeping.

— Five separate beaches with changing rooms, sun beds, umbrellas, toilets, showers for beach swimmers and canteens. There are also lifeguards and safety buoys.

— Playgrounds for football, volleyball, basketball and tennis. There is also a special place for roller-skating. Beach visitors can use these facilities without any fees.

— 38 barbecue areas equipped with modern barbecue tools, umbrellas and benches.

— Large swimming pool with three recreational swimming areas for different age groups, wooden benches, umbrellas and sun beds in addition to changing rooms, showers and canteens.

— Children’s games and equipment such as slides and climbing bars, train and bike rides.

— A theatre that seats 10,000 people.

Mushrif Park
Location: Mushrif, Deira.

Facilities

— 56 spots for barbecue and picnics. These are equipped with wooden shades, seats, modern grills and wooden toys.

— Separate swimming areas for men and women.

— Rotating horses, flying camels, children’s cars, circular train, recreational jumping apparatus, swings, slides, seesaw and climbing ropes for children.

— Tracks for sports enthusiasts and reserved ground for volleyball, football and basketball.

— Restaurant with air-conditioned game halls.

Safa Park
Location: Off Shaikh Zayed Road on Interchange 2.

Facilities

— Grounds for football, volleyball and tennis and a set of physical fitness equipment.

— Peripheral jogging track with special running surface around the outside of the park.

— 21 barbecue areas equipped with modern barbecue tools, umbrellas and benches. More barbecue areas will be added soon.

— Children’s games and equipment such as slides and climbing bars, installed according to the latest international specifications. Visitors can enjoy swings, ride a train and rent bicycles.

— Electric cars, ferris wheel, traffic village, horse rides, boat rides and fun jumping. In addition, the park also has a labyrinth with foyer and corridors surrounded by fences and bushes with only one exit. Whoever enters the labyrinth shall find only one exit.

— Restaurant and games hall. There are three canteens spread across the park.

Jumeirah Beach Park
Location: In the residential area of Jumeirah, overlooking the Arabian Gulf and alongside Jumeirah Road.

Facilities

— Rental sun beds and umbrellas at reasonable rates, with the park crew offering the necessary help.

— Safe swimming areas off the beach with safety buoys.

— Recreational facilities such as speedboats, banana boats, and parachutes.

— Two beach football courts and two beach volleyball courts.

— Two barbecue areas, each with seven barbecues, umbrellas and seats.

— Slides, skating tracks and other high-quality games enjoyable for children of different age groups.

— Large restaurant with an air-conditioned billiards court.

Creekside Park
Location: Alongside Dubai Creek on the Bur Dubai side.

Facilities

— Entertainment areas.

— Three helicopter pads.

— First-aid room and modern communication devices.

— Mini golf course, with 18 holes.

— Theatre area with capacity to hold around 400 people.

— Aflaj Heritage Village

— Children’s City and Snow World.

Zabeel Park
Location: Near World Trade Centre in the heart of Dubai in the Zabeel area. The park is divided into three sections — A, B and C.

Suspended pedestrian bridges and an internal train connect the three sections.

Facilities

— Party area.

— Maze modelled on the solar system

— Lakeside restaurant complex.

— Exhibition building.

— Cafeteria

— Cricket ground.

— Open-air theatre.

— Separate areas for technology, sports and entertainment.

— Main theatre for celebrations and programmes as well as for establishments wanting to host international shows.

— Health club

— Star Gate, a project with an estimated cost of Dh220 million.

Five domes, partly underground, are linked via air-conditioned tunnels. The domes are Saturn, Moon, Earth, Mars and UFO. Each dome is dedicated to different types of entertaining scientific activities.

Great Outdoors – Under the stars

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Under the stars
By Cindy L Bailey, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59

All you need to know to camp in the UAE.

Some experiences are better lived than read about. Camping in the UAE is one of them.

There are still some camping rules where there is a little regulation that should be followed to not only keep out of harm’s way, but also to make each camping session magical and memorable.

There are no official camping grounds in the UAE but desert camping is still a very popular activity enjoyed by many, in areas such as Hatta, Liwa, Hameem and the Moreeb Dunes.

The Dubai Municipality website is a great source for camping tips. It includes hints on how to protect the environment while enjoying that fun day out in the great outdoors.

The Environment Department, Environment Protection and Safety section in the website elaborates. “The desert is a sensitive environment. Vehicles traveling over the sand pose a threat to habitats and dune stability.

“Drivers should avoid making new tracks in the sand and stay on paths that have already been made. Driving over the desert kills plants and spoils the compact soil, making it difficult for new plants to grow.

“Desert plants protect the desert from erosion and provide a source of nourishment and protection for desert creatures. Desert animals should not be disturbed.” The website also advises campers on how to approach areas that support wildlife. There are also beach camping rules.

“Do not drive vehicles in the inertial zone at the beach. Dubai Local Orders prohibit acts which may damage the natural environment of any protected area, including damage to wild, marine or plant life or any actions affecting the aesthetic values of any reserve.

Protected areas include the head of Dubai Creek, the coastal strip and adjoining marine waters west of Jebel Ali Hotel.”

In the UAE, keeping the harsh summers in mind, camping is not just about the where and how. It’s also about when.

The best time to pitch a tent in the UAE is during the winter months. Temperatures are not extreme (unless one is camping in the proper desert, where temperatures are known to plummet at night).

Also, do keep in mind to drink up to two litres of drinking water per person, per day during extended camping sessions in the desert.

Rosy pictures of a crackling campfires are picture perfect vignettes for the family album. But a lot goes into that Kodak moment, which brings us to the camping equipment.

To set up camp you will need equipment that can withstand hard ground, cold nights, sand and bugs. For shelter, choose a low-profile exoskeleton tent. Its seam-sealed floor keeps out insects while the self-supporting frame allows the tent to be moved around easily. Each person in the party should have his/her own sleeping bag.

Animals, insects, and sand are inconveniences one can’t help considering while camping out. Place clothes and shoes in bags at night and remember to shake out clothes and sleeping bags before use to ensure that there are no scorpions and spiders piling on for the ride.

Health is of paramount importance when out camping. Even on cool days it’s advisable to protect yourself against too much sun with a wide-brimmed hat or cap, sunglasses, sun block cream and comfortable clothing.

Keep the young ones well protected. It is also important to know the signs of heat exhaustion and dehydration. “Feeling weak, dizzy, tired, exceptionally thirsty, getting a dry mouth muscle weakness and headaches are the symptoms,” warns Dr Denis Hardy, paediatrician at the Manchester Clinic, Dubai. Carrying a first-aid kit is a must.

Follow rules indicated in the Dubai Muncipality website. “Beaches and desert areas should not be littered with barbecue ashes.

“If you intend to make a fire then take your own wood or charcoal or use dead wood. Do not pull limbs from ‘ dead'” trees or uproot dead shrubs.” Know that any form of waste would take decades to decompose, so don’t forget to bring rubbish bags to discard of any waste.” For information regarding camping applications, contact 04 206 4244 or 04 206 4245. More details can also be found at http://www.environment.gov.ae

CAMPING OUT
Essentials for an overnighter

Here is a list of everything you will need for a safe camping trip:

Tent
Sleeping bags
Pillows (for small children)
First-aid kit
Sunscreen
Lanterns or flash lights (Be sure to have extra fuel or batteries.)
Insect repellent
A cool box with several litres of water
Dry foods such as sandwiches, crisps, canned foods and bread.
Tin opener
A small disposable grill
Matches or a lighter
A small saucepan
Plastic knifes, forks and spoons
Wet wipes
Rubbish bags

Great Outdoors – Thrills & Spills

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Thrills and spills
By Andrea Anastasiou, Staff Writer GULF NEWS Published: December 18, 2007, 22:59

From riding the dunes to skimming the skies and diving into the azure blue of the Arabian Sea, the Top 10 list of outdoor activities in the UAE is a thrill fest.

The end of another uncomfortable UAE summer signals the start of the season for people to enjoy the great outdoors. During the next few months, there is an abundance of outdoor activities and events to be enjoyed by families, thrill seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. Here are ten of the absolutely ripping best.

Dubai Seaplane
Seawings offers you the opportunity to enjoy and marvel at the ever-changing Dubai skyline from a Cessna 208 Caravan Seaplane. There are three tours to choose from, and some of the sights that are to be enjoyed from 1,500 feet are the Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Downtown Dubai and Dubai Creek.
Location: Jebel Ali Hotel
Cost: Starts Dh795 per adult
Contact: Seawings (+97148832999) or visit: http://www.seawings.ae

Movies under the stars
Every Sunday from 8 pm you can enjoy some of your favourite movies under the stars at the Wafi City garden rooftop. There is a different theme every week, with Ghost, Seven and American Pie being some of the past movies shown. Giant beanbags, popcorn, pizza and hot dog stands heighten the chilled out ambience.
Location: Wafi City Rooftop, entrance through Carters
Cost: Free
Contact: Wafi City (+971 4 3244555)

Absolute outdoor adventure
For true outdoor activity enthusiasts, Absolute Adventures offers all types of experiences at its beachfront facility in Dibba.
The centre is set among the region’s best trekking, mountain biking, kayaking, rock-climbing, diving and sailing areas, and is equipped with quality outdoor gear. For the full experience, take a group of friends and spend the weekend here and indulge in a fun list of outdoor activities.
Location: Karsha, Oman, on the UAE-Oman border
Cost: By quotation
Contact: Absolute Adventures (+9713459900)

Dubai Surf School
Take to the azure blue waters with Dubai’s first surf school, Surf Dubai, and learn how to ride the waves with the professionals. Dubai’s coastline suits the novice surfer due to the manageable waves. Lessons are offered daily, and specialised learner surfboards are provided.
All lessons are subject to sea conditions; you can receive daily Wave Alerts by signing up on the company’s website, (www.surfingdubai.com) and then call to book lessons at your convenience.
Location: Sunset Beach, Near Ladies Club, Dubai.
Cost: Starts Dh175 for adults, and Dh150 for children
Contact: Surf Dubai (+971505043020)

Desert safari
A popular outdoor experience is the desert safari; trips into the extensive desert are the ultimate UAE pastime. Many companies offer these excursions, with camel riding, dune bashing and safari skiing just some of the activities that are on offer whilst in the desert, in addition to the 4×4 wheel drive to reach ‘camp’.
Some packages include overnight stay with traditional Arabic entertainment in the form of belly-dancing, henna painting and shisha smoking.
Some companies that offer desert safaris are Arabian Adventures (+97143034888), and Desert Rangers (+9714 3402408)

Hot air balloon flight
You can now experience the moon-like landscape of the Hajj mountains, the Dubai skyline, and the giant dunes of the UAE from a hot air balloon. The trip lasts for approximately an hour and is suitable for most people, making it possible for families with children over the age of five to have an adventure in a safe environment.
Cost: Dh880
Contact: Balloon Adventure Dubai (+97142854949)

Dhow boat cruise
Take a dhow cruise on the Dubai creek to marvel at the city’s architecture and changing skyline. Many different tour companies offer cruises with some offering packages including food and beverages and live entertainment such as belly dancers and Arabic music. Some companies that offer Dhow Boat Cruises include Creekside Leisure (+971 4 3368407) and City Smart (+971 4 2246 181).

Tandem Sky Dive
The thrilling experience of a tandem sky dive from 12,000 feet is a must for adventure seekers, and this can be done at the UAQ Aeroclub in Umm Al Quwain. Accelerated free falls are also on offer for the extremely brave.
Location: Umm Al Quwain
Cost Tandem sky dive with an instructor, Dh1000.
Contact: (+971067681447)

Camel racing
Camel racing is a deep-rooted traditional sport that finds its origins in the desert culture of North Africa and the Middle East. The UAE has 15 racetracks with spacious and well-kept stadiums for viewers. Camel races take place from late October to early April, and periodically throughout the rest of the year. The races generally take place on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays throughout the winter season or on five-day events held in the UAE’s larger centres.
Contact: Nad Al Sheba Racecourse (+9714322277)

Water sports
Dubai International Marine Club is a beach resort that offers a large variety of water sports and pastimes including windsurfing, sailing, fishing, and scuba diving. There are also the Beach Olympics for incentive and corporate groups. The DIMC also hosts a number of racing events for vessels ranging from traditional dhows to modern yachts.
Contact: Dubai International Marine Club (+97143994111)

Shaikha Maitha bint Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum won the gold medal in the women 60kg karate final

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Shaikha Maitha bint Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the daughter of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, poses on the podium after she won the gold medal in the women 60kg karate final during the 11th Pan Arab Games in Cairo on Thursday, November 22.

Gold for Shaikha Maitha

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Gold for Shaikha MaithaFrom Hisham Al Gizouli 23 November 2007 for KHALEEJ TIMES

CAIRO — Shaikha Maitha bint Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum won the gold medal in the women’s karate competition last night.

She made easy progress in the 65kg category, making short work of her opponents from Lebanon and Syria to secure her path into the final before she won 1-0 to make a golden day for the UAE sport.

A 1-0 defeat in her first match in the open category put her out of the running for gold and silver, but she was declared the winner in the bronze-medal bout over an Algerian opponent in the open weight.

In the men’s kata final, the UAE team secured silver, losing out to the crisp, acrobatic display from Egypt’s world championship-winning team, 5-0.

In the men’s kumite open category, Mohammad Khamis suffered an injury during his bout against a Tunisian opponent and forfeited the match. However, the UAE is now appealing the decision.

Randa Mohammed Ebrahim won UAE’s first silver medal in the women’s karate competition at the Pan-Arab Games which opened at Hall-3, Cairo Stadium yesterday.

The UAE girls karate team started as pre-tournament’s favourites to bag the gold medals by the end of the competition. Led by UAE skipper, Shaikha Maitha bint Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the team has been training regularly and going from one tournament to another in many parts of the world.

They have also picked up many gold medals at the team and individual levels in different official and friendly tournaments, including the recent Asian Games in Doha 2007.

Meanwhile, the other UAE contender Hiba Abu Harmoush received her first defeat at the hands of Morocco’s Fatima Al Zahra in the 53-60kg category. In the men’s competition, Khalid Sulieman was knocked out by Algeria’s Hicham Buleef in the 60kg and Mohammed Khamis Al Meshrikh was beaten by Mohammed Jadid from Jordan in the 65kg category. UAE disabled continued their impressive performance and picked up more medals for their country in the weightlifting.

Paralympics gold medallist Mohammed Khamis lifted the gold in the 90+ men’s competition and Fatima Rashid Khamis walked away with the silver in the 82+ women’ competition.

Meanwhile, the only UAE woman cyclist and winner of the 2004 Pan-Arab Games silver medal in the road race Maitha Al Blouchi did not have much luck in her start at the Games and finished disappointingly 10th.

Trains of thought

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Trains of thought

Trains of thought
November 17, 2007 Posted by Sanjay Bangar at 12:57 AM in Offbeat

Being a Railwayman people often ask me several questions about train travel. How much time have you spent travelling in trains? Which is the longest journey? And so on.

I’ve travelled an estimated 200,000 km by train in 15 years of first-class cricket. Nowadays, because of the BCCI’s tie-up with airlines companies, most teams travel by air. It takes away the charm of the journey because in a flight everyone is only keen to get to the destination. The whole pleasure of a journey is lost. Railways is probably the only team to still use trains throughout the season.

The Indian Railways is the largest mass transport system operating in the world in terms of travellers per day and every Indian has memories of train journeys. For us cricketers, it’s no different.

During journeys there’s a lot of interaction between players, a fact crucial in a sport like cricket. Long-term friendships are formed when one interacts with colleagues, understanding each other’s background, education, siblings and family. These journeys made team bonding much easier. One understands there is more to life than just cricket.

Our experience of trains usually corresponds with the progress made in our careers. Earlier when a player used to get picked for Under-15, Under-17 or his University team, he used to travel in second class compartments. When he progressed to the Ranji Trophy almost all players travelled second AC.

If one made it to the zonal team (for the Duleep or Deodhar Trophy) the tickets are given by organisers but with no guarantee of berth confirmations. I remember vividly a journey in 2000 when ten players of a Central Zone team were booked in an AC compartment from Kanpur to Delhi after a Duleep Trophy match. But only one ticket was confirmed. It was on that one ticket, with some help from co-passengers that we managed to spend the night in the most awkward conditions. It caused a lot of discomfort to all concerned.

You also need to endure some really long journeys. My longest journey has been for 52 hours from Guwahati to Mumbai in 1999. It was after a Duleep Trophy game and I was all by myself, going back home. I spent close to three nights in the train and it passed through so many unknown stations. It was a very lonely experience.

Another problem relates to the massive kit-bag and luggage we need to carry to games. The trains usually tend to be jam-packed and there isn’t much place to store our belongings. In hindsight one acknowledges the tolerance, humility and acceptance of co-passengers, which made it possible for us to travel. People usually used to grant us special status by making adjustments once they realised we were cricketers.

Teamwork also came to our rescue on many occasions. If we had to alight at a station where a train stops for a very short period, we used to form a queue from the seats to the exit and pass on the luggage from one guy to the other. It not only saved us paying exorbitant amounts of money to the porters but also had another big advantage. You could very easily separate a selfish character from a selfless character during these journeys. A selfish character was one who would turn a blind eye once his luggage alighted on the platform.

A related aspect is the allotment of room partners when teams are put up in hotels. Most coaches and managers try and work it out on the following basis – either it’s a senior with a junior to enhance the learning process, or it’s openers sharing a room, fast bowlers being put together, or (in Railways’ case) players being grouped according to their zones. It produces some interesting situations when one member of the room has had a great day and the other a bad one. It’s tough to party when you’ve score a big hundred but seen your room-mate failing on the day. It’s those times when you understand what a great leveller cricket can be and how failure isn’t too far away if you lose focus.

UAE beat Vietnam in World Cup qualifiers

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UAE beat Vietnam in World Cup qualifiers
October 09, 2007
United Arab Emirates earned a crucial one-nil away win over Vietnam in the first round of the Asian leg of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in Hanoi. UAE came close to scoring in the 14th minute, when Ismail Matar fired in a free-kick but the hosts keeper Duong Son came up with a brilliant save. But the 79th minute of the match saw the solitary goal of the match that came off Saeed Basheer. The two will clash once again in the return leg.