Emirati star Omeir Saeed returns to action in Friday’s UAE Wakeboard Championship in Abu Dhabi with his thoughts already drifting towards next year’s world series.
The 21-year-old Red Bull athlete will start as hot favourite to land the Freeride title when the event gets under way from the capital’s Breakwater at 8.30am.
Omeir, a junior world champion in 2012, was placed fourth in the WWA Wake Park World Championships on home waters in Abu Dhabi in 2014 and turned professional the same year.
Having now completed his studies at the American University in Sharjah where he graduated in finance, he is eager to advance his competitive career at the top level.
“I compete everywhere I can at the moment and next year I’d like to take part in the world series again,” he said. “I got into the top four in the rankings last time when I did just two of the five rounds so I know I can do better next time.”
Hosted by Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, the UAE Wakeboard Championship could see a double family success if Omeir’s 11-year-old brother, Ahmed, has his way.
“He is very good for his age, the best in the UAE, and has won the last two events when we competed together,” said Omeir.
The championship features action in the three categories of Novice, Junior and Freeride for both males and females of all ages. Riders are judged on the tricks they perform when towed behind a motor boat travelling at speeds of 30-40km/hr.
Captions:
- Omeir Saeed is gearing up for the Wakeboarding Championship action which begins Friday 19 April
- Omeir with younger brother Ahmed, a fellow wakeboarding enthusiast and competitor
