Look: When Dubai sailors rejoiced in the wind, residents braved sandstorm 16 years ago

"The stronger the wind, the better," sailors cried as southerly winds gusting to 25 knots made the ocean a playground for more than 100 dhows and sailboats vying for the Commodore’s Cup on a weekend 16 years ago.

It was May 2, 2009 (Saturday) and a hot wind blowing from the desert whipped up sands while the temperature hovering above 43°C– recorded in both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah– made the outdoors unpleasant for most residents that weekend.

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But not for sailors like Keith Mutch, who was then Dubai Offshore Sailing club manager and organiser of the Cup. He told Khaleej Times: “The conditions were 'brilliant'. Really, really brilliant.”

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It was the last regatta in a series of 11 that day and it was a nail-biting race to the finish, with many high-profile competitors coming from Jebel Ali, Dubai International Marine Club, and Umm Al Quwain.

The boats took a route past The World, Burj Al Arab and Jebel Ali Port. Closer to the shore, colourful chutes were seen encircling the Burj Al Arab, next to the Paragliding Club.

Sailors rejoice, residents sweat!

Meanwhile, motorists endured low visibility as roads were engulfed by a sandstorm. Workers wore masks as they managed to continue with construction work during the sandstorm. The meteorological office, however, predicted cooler temperatures will arrive in coming few days.

Angel Tesorero

angel@khaleejtimes.com

Angel Tesorero is Assistant Editor and designated funny guy in the newsroom, but dead serious about writing on transport, labour migration, and environmental issues. He is a food lover too.

Thanweeruddin Mohammad

Staff Writer

thanweer@khaleejtimes.com

Thanweeruddin Mohammad oversees KT research and photo desk. Aside from his daily activities in the newsroom, he is also a fitness enthusiast who loves playing cricket and other outdoor games.