Thousands expected on 2nd Al Gharbia Watersports Festival

Abu Dhabi, April Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Western Region, final preparations are underway for the 2nd Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, which will be held in Mirfa, Al Gharbia from April 22 to May 1st, 2010.
The festival, in its 2nd year, is initiated by the Western Region Development Council (WRDC), and organised by Abu Dhabi Motors Club.
Excitement is already building among competitors and visitors in anticipation for the opening ceremony of the 2nd annual Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, scheduled for Thursday evening. In addition to the opening ceremony across the beach, competitions and activities will be held throughout the 10 day festival, which include an international kiteboarding championship, surf ski kayak race, traditional and modern sailboat races, beach volleyball and beach football. The festival will also mark the start of Al Gharbia's 2nd photography competition and the launch of a new video contest.
The festival, held on Mirfa's public beach - a mere 90 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport - offers visitors night camping activities accompanied with live music and a traditional night market or ‘souk' for eager shoppers. Also, for those interested in learning more about kiteboarding or kayaking, the festival will have professional trainers offering free training sessions on-ground during weekdays.