Abu Dhabi Hosts Spectacular Grand Kingfish Championship 2024
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: Sheikh Ahmed bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Sailing and Rowing Federation, and Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, graced the esteemed Abu Dhabi Grand Kingfish Championship 2024 with their presence. The championship, held under the distinguished patronage of H.H. Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, showcased a thrilling display of maritime heritage and sporting prowess.
Organized by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, the event aimed to uphold traditional competitions while celebrating the UAE’s rich maritime legacy.
The crowning ceremony, held at the prestigious Mohammed Khalaf Majlis in Abu Dhabi’s Al Karama area, was attended by esteemed participants, organizing committee members, and representatives from various media outlets.
The spotlight shone brightly on the top achievers of the tournament, with Hamad Al Kamali claiming the coveted first-place prize and AED 200,000 for his remarkable catch, a kingfish weighing 32.69 kg. Omar Al Buraiki secured the second position, earning AED 150,000, followed by Muhammad Al Marzooqi in third place, who received AED 100,000.
In a gesture of inclusivity and recognition, participants from Jordan, Oman, and Bahrain were honored alongside the Emirati women’s Al Namous team. The event also acknowledged the invaluable contributions of supporting bodies, sponsors, and partners, including the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, Abu Dhabi Heritage Authority, Yas Canal, Delma Marine, Abu Dhabi Marine, National Guard Command, Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority, Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, and Mohammed Khalaf Majlis.
With over 1,500 anglers and 360 fishing boats in attendance, the championship marked the largest gathering of its kind in the region. A total of 166 kingfish were weighed in by 138 boats, with participants vying for a staggering AED 1 million in cash prizes.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Kingfish Championship has firmly established itself as a cornerstone event in marine sports, fostering a deep appreciation for kingfishing among UAE nationals and encouraging the wider community to embrace the sport. By reviving local marine heritage and providing a platform for amateur anglers, the championship continues to ignite the spirit of competition and camaraderie within the sporting community.
