Abu Dhabi to become global surf destination as Modon partners Kelly Slater Wave Company on Surf Abu Dhabi

Modon Properties (Modon), the Abu Dhabi developer, has partnered with Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC), the world experts in man-made wave technology, to create Surf Abu Dhabi, the most advanced wave facility in the world.
Featuring the world’s longest ride and the world’s biggest barrel, as well as the world’s largest man-made wave facility, Surf Abu Dhabi is an exclusive surf experience designed to inspire and appeal to everyone – from beginners to elite surfers.
Surf Abu Dhabi will further underscore Abu Dhabi’s sporting offering when it opens later this year. Located on Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi’s sport, leisure and recreation destination, the elite-level surfing facility will take its place alongside other major additions to the city’s sporting infrastructure including a 3,500-seat velodrome equipped to stage international indoor cycling competitions.
Bill O’Regan, CEO of Modon, said: “At Modon, our role is to support the growth of Abu Dhabi’s ambitions and sports asset development strategy which is contributing towards a legacy of sporting excellence.”
“As the world’s premier man-made surf experience, Surf Abu Dhabi is specified to host major international surf competitions. It is a high-performance destination which will offer world-class surfers the perfect conditions to train or compete, while also growing the region’s surfing community, and inspiring wider society to embrace a healthy new activity.”
“When we opened the first wave, the mystery it created and excitement that ensued was something I’m not sure many have experienced,” said Kelly Slater, 11-time World Surf League Champion and founder of KSWC. “Surfing reaches people in all corners of the globe and I’m always surprised with who gravitates towards this world. Having a KSWC wave in Abu Dhabi is something I’ve never dreamt would happen but here it is. Unbelievable. While not many would have predicted the location for the project, there are great synergies with Abu Dhabi and like KSWC they are always innovating and ahead of the curve. This is going to be a lot of fun for so many people.”
Jeff Fleeher, President of Kelly Slater Wave Company, said: “As a global hub for tourism, sport, and business, with diverse peoples and cultures, Abu Dhabi is the perfect place for us to showcase KSWC’s unmatched wave technology and surf experience. We’re fortunate to partner with Modon and join Hudayriyat Island’s incredible ecosystem of sport and recreation to foster new participation and enthusiasm for surfing in the Middle East.”

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/regional-article/348520/abu-dhabi-to-become-global-surf-destination-as-modon-partners-kelly-slater-wave-company-on-surf-abu-dhabi

Top 10 stats from the Canadian Grand Prix Max Verstappen matches legendary Ayrton Senna

The eighth round of the 2023 Formula One season is done and dusted.
Red Bull extended their commanding lead at the top of the constructors’ championship while Max Verstappen’s dominance in the drivers’ championship is even more pronounced.
With plenty of action at the Canadian Grand Prix, here are the Top 10 stats you need to know…
1. For the seventh straight time, the Canadian GP has seen the winner emerge from the front row of the grid, six of which were by the pole-sitter.
2. The combination of Max Verstappen (85), Lewis Hamilton (194), and Fernando Alonso (104) makes up F1’s most decorated podium with a total of 383 top-three finishes
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3. Montreal is the eighth different circuit where Hamilton has claimed ten or more podiums.
4. Alex Albon’s seventh-place finish was the best result for the Williams team in a full race since Nicholas Latifi came seventh at the 2021 Hungarian GP. It was also their best result in
5. Max Verstappen secured his 41 st career victory, matching Ayrton Senna’s win tally.
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6. Twenty of those wins have come from pole position, taking his pole-to-win ratio to a staggering 80%.
7. This race marks only the second time this year that both Ferrari cars have finished in the top five together.
8. Alonso has more podiums this year (6) than Mercedes and Ferrari this year (5).
9. It’s the first time Alonso has scored over 100 points in a season since he departed fromFerrari
10. By winning all eight races this season, Red Bull equaled Mercedes’ best start to a season. OnlyMcLaren has surpassed this with 11 wins from the beginning of 1988.
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All stats are compiled by @f1statsguru who you can follow on Instagram and Twitter.
For the best visual F1 content, follow us on Instagram here – @sport360f1

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/motorsport/formula-one/348518/top-10-stats-from-the-canadian-grand-prix-max-verstappen-matches-legendary-ayrton-senna

Top 10 stats ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix Red Bull close in on a century of F1 wins

The eighth round of the 2023 Formula One season is upon us!
Red Bull hold a commanding lead at the top of the constructors’ championship while Max Verstappen’s dominance in the drivers’ championship is even more pronounced.
With the fastest cars and drivers in motorsport ready to zip around the track again at the Canadian Grand Prix, here are the Top 10 stats you need to know…
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1. The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve has hosted more Grands Prix (41) than any other circuit outside of Europe. It is set to surpass Nurburgring for fifth on the all-time list of venues with the most F1 races held.
2. Since 2005, every pole-sitter at Montreal was either a world champion already or went on to become one later.
3. If Max Verstappen emerges victorious at the Canadian GP, it would mark his 41st career win, placing him on par with Ayrton Senna for fifth on the list of most F1 victories.
4. A victory for Red Bull in this race would be their 100th win in F1, joining the ranks of Ferrari, McLaren, Williams and Mercedes, the only others to achieve this feat.
5. This is one of Lewis Hamilton’s better tracks, having started from the top-five every single time. He’s also stood on the podium whenever he’s finished here, barring once (P5 in 2018).
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6. Sergio Perez has never managed to qualify higher than 8th in Canada. His most recent points-scoring finish here dates back to 2017.
7. Red Bull could also become the third team in F1 history to win all of the first eight races in a season. McLaren (1988) and Mercedes (2019) are the only other teams to do so.
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8. If Hamilton emerges victorious this time, it would mark his eighth win at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve which would equal the record for the most wins by a driver at a single circuit.
9. Lance Stroll has scored in three of his four home races. The only other Canadian to score on more occasions at home
10. For the first time in the hybrid era, we’ve had three straight races (Spain, Monaco, Miami) without a single VSC or SC period.
All stats are compiled by @f1statsguru who you can follow on Instagram and Twitter.
For the best visual F1 content, follow us on Instagram here – @sport360f1

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/motorsport/formula-one/348516/top-10-stats-ahead-of-the-canadian-grand-prix-red-bull-close-in-on-a-century-of-f1-wins

Serie A inaugurates first MENA office in Abu Dhabi to boost fan-focused regional strategy

Italy’s premier professional football league, Lega Serie A, today inaugurated its first Middle East and North Africa (MENA) office in Abu Dhabi at a media event that also saw the launch of the brand’s strategic vision and plans for the region.
The event was hosted by Lega Serie A’s Michele Ciccarese, Commercial and Marketing Director, Anna Guarnerio, International Media Rights Director, Alfonso De Stefano, Managing Director MENA and Omar Al Hakim, Head of Brand Partnerships MENA.
The latest international expansion for the Italian league will enable Lega Serie A to broaden its influence across the MENA region, with an emphasis on the GCC and North Africa. The new MENA office – which is located in Yas Creative Hub on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi – will provide a regional base for the league to increase its fan base in the region by building connections with the 53% of the MENA population who have an interest in football.
The Italian league aims to do this with a strategic plan and roadmap that will unlock opportunities for collaboration with local and regional partners; raise the profile of the league’s iconic clubs, such as  Juventus, AC Milan, Fc Inter, As Roma, Ssc Napoli and Lazio; and better engage with the region’s Calcio fans through increased investment in grassroots talent, new charitable activities in regional markets, and bespoke content and content partnerships designed for Millennial and Gen Z audiences.
“We are very pleased to continue our global expansion project of the ‘Calcio’ product and to face new challenges that represent fundamental steps towards the internationalisation of Italian football,” Luigi De Siervo, CEO of Lega Serie A, stated. “With our presence and the opening of the new office, our goal is to be closer to fans and longtime supporters in a strategic market like the Middle East.
“At the same time, we aim to promote a healthy education of the new generations in the values of sports, involving them both on and off the field through projects with digital experiences. Additionally, we are developing entertainment initiatives for fans by localising events of Lega Serie A that will feature the presence of teams, players, and legends.
“Thanks to our broadcasters and regional partners, Abu Dhabi Media and Starzplay, we will bring football close to the fans for a unique and immersive experience. We are convinced – De Siervo concluded – that through the spread of our product in these areas, many young talents from the Middle East will have the opportunity to regularly play in Serie A.”
Commenting on the announcement, Alfonso De Stefano, Managing Director MENA of Lega Serie A, said: “The MENA region is a crucial market for us, with a deep passion for football and a growing interest in the Italian game. There are already an estimated 16 million Lega Serie A fans in the region – half of them under the age of 25 – and connecting with this fan base and with the wider audience of football lovers in the region is our top priority. Our new headquarters strengthens our regional presence, giving us direct access to fans, and opening doors to a range of future collaborations with key stakeholders in our sport and beyond.”
At the office opening, Lega Serie A also underscored its commitment to establishing grassroots initiatives to encourage and develop local talent, passion and skill in partnership with regional football associations and training academies.
Omar Al Hakim, Head of Brand Partnerships MENA of Lega Serie A, said: “Our mission here is not only to promote Lega Serie A, but also to be a catalyst for football development in the MENA region. We are looking to establish relationships and forge partnerships with organisations who share our values to nurture local talent and promote the appreciation for the sport throughout the region.”
To build engagement with football fans, particularly its Gen Z audiences, Lega Serie A recently launched a bilingual English and Arabia Snapchat account to host regionally relevant content – the first such account from a global football league with Arabic content for MENA audiences. The league also confirmed that it will announce a number of new initiatives and content partnerships in the coming months.
In 2022, Lega Serie A signed a broadcasting partnership with Abu Dhabi Media and Starzplay, which are now exclusively streaming the league’s matches to audiences across 20 countries in the MENA region.
For more information about Lega Serie A, please visit www.legaseriea.it.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/football/serie_a/348514/serie-a-inaugurates-first-mena-office-in-abu-dhabi-to-boost-fan-focused-regional-strategy

Hublot ambassador Djokovic makes history by winning record 23rd Grand Slam at French Open

What a match! What a player! What an historic moment!
In Paris on Sunday afternoon, Hublot ambassador Novak Djokovic won the French Open, his 23rd Grand Slam, making him the most-successful player in tennis history.
Nole becomes the first male tennis player to reach 23 slams, an astonishing record that may never be bettered. And he’s not done yet! Congratulations Nole! We’re so proud of you!
Nole’s most-recent triumph is a further symbol of what he calls “inat”, a Serbian word that has no literal translation into English, but which characterises his relentless, courageous pursuit of excellence.
Nole is a true warrior on court, never giving up, always fighting for every point, every win. And off court he’s the same, fully committed to his craft, his passions and, of course, to his family and friends.
His spirit, humility and unique achievements make him a true inspiration, a one-of-a-kind. Nole, we salute you!
Nole, 36, turned professional in 2003 and over the past two decades has rewritten tennis history, achieving what many thought impossible, defying the odds and overcoming adversity time and again with his iron will to become the greatest tennis player ever to pick up a racquet.
He won his first Grand Slam in 2008 when he picked up the Australian Open title and in the years since, has amassed multiple all-time records, setting himself apart in the most competitive chapter in tennis history.
As well as winning 23 Grand Slams, Nole has also spent more weeks as world number one than any other player, male or female, in history, and finished the year as the highest ranked men’s player a record seven times. He has won 38 ATP Masters 1000 titles, also more than any other player in history.
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In all, he has won 94 career titles and is one of only eight men to have completed the Career Grand Slam, winning each of the four majors at least once, and one of only four to complete the Double Career Grand Slam. He is also the only male player to have held all four Grand Slam titles at once, and the only player in tennis history to have won all four Grand Slams, all nine ATP 1000 titles and the ATP Tour Finals.
Even more remarkably, he has won them all at least twice. Nole, you’re the best!
“Congratulations Nole! What can we say! You are simply amazing! You are an inspiration, a source of enormous joy, a lionheart, the ultimate professional and a true friend,” said Hublot CEO, Ricardo Guadalupe.
“Every year you push yourself to new triumphs, proving you truly are first, different and unique. There’s no one like Nole!
“On behalf of everyone in the Hublot family, our heartiest and most-sincere congratulations on your record-breaking 23rd Grand Slam, and wish you every success as your incredible journey continues. Enjoy this moment. Hublot loves Nole!”
Djokovic joined the Hublot family of ambassadors in 2021. He is a symbol of professionalism, sportsmanship and humility, and in striving to be the best and giving it everything in pursuit of his dreams, he embodies the same powerful values that define Hublot’s unique approach to fine watchmaking.
He belongs to an illustrious club of Hublot ambassadors who have reached the peak of their sports. From Pele, Usain Bolt, Alex Morgan, Kylian Mbappe, Dustin Johnson to Nole’s fellow Grand-Slam-winning tennis player Simona Halep, Hublot stands proudly alongside men and women who are champions on and off the field.
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Founded in Switzerland in 1980, Hublot is defined by its innovation, which began with the highly original combination of gold and rubber. This “Art of Fusion” stems from the imagination of its visionary Honorary Chairman, Jean-Claude Biver, and has been driven forward by CEO Guadalupe since 2012.
The release of the iconic, multi-award-winning Big Bang in 2005 paved the way for new flagship collections (Classic Fusion, Spirit of Big Bang), with complications ranging from the simple to the highly sophisticated, establishing the extraordinary DNA of the Swiss watchmaking house and ensuring its impressive growth.
Keen to preserve its traditional and cutting-edge expertise, and guided by its philosophy to “Be First, Different and Unique”, the Swiss watchmaker is consistently ahead of the curve, through its innovations in materials (scratch-resistant Magic Gold, ceramics in vibrant colours, sapphire), and the creation of Manufacture movements (Unico, Meca-10, Tourbillon).
Hublot is fully committed to creating a Haute Horlogerie brand with a visionary future: a future which is fused with the key events of our times (FIFA World Cup, UEFA Champions League, UEFA EURO) and the finest ambassadors our era has to offer (Chiara Ferragni, Pele, Mbappe, Johnson, Bolt, Djokovic).
Discover the Hublot universe at our network of boutiques located in key cities across the globe: Geneva, Paris, London, New York, Hong Kong, Dubai, Tokyo, Singapore, Zurich and at HUBLOT.com.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/tennis/348512/hublot-ambassador-djokovic-makes-history-by-winning-record-23rd-grand-slam-at-french-open

Woo Casino Welcome Bonuses For Australians Player

Content

Choosing A Game At Woo Casino
Slots And Jackpots
Table Games And Live Casino
Woo Casino Bonuses
Deposits And Withdrawals
Responsible Gaming

The Australian-language site offers a large collection of games, including slots and live casino games, as well as generous starting bonuses to help you get started comfortably.
Woo Casino is operated by a Maltese company called Green Feather Online Limited, whose other slot, the funny ghost-themed Boo Casino, is also featured on our website. As Woo Casino operates under a license issued by the Malta Gaming Authority and is under constant supervision, it is considered a safe and tax-free casino for Australian players.
All of Woo Casino’s services are up and running, and the site is also flexible for use on mobile devices. This clean casino offers a great gambling experience, although it doesn’t bring anything new or revolutionary to the market.
Choosing A Game At Woo Casino
Woo Casino offers a fairly model and an attractive selection of games tailored to the preferences of Australian players. We didn’t manage to find out the exact number of games, but we assume that it reaches somewhere between 500 and 1000. And of course, the collection is constantly growing as new games are added.
Slots And Jackpots
There’s a wide range of woo slots available. There are both familiar favorites and interesting, rare slots from game developers that you won’t find in many other casinos.
Jackpot games don’t have their category or button, but when you search for the word “jackpot”, about a dozen slots appear, such as the Jackpot Jester series. You won’t find NetEnt’s million-dollar progressive jackpots here. Instead, you can try, for example, Mega Glam Life from Betsoft.
Table Games And Live Casino
From roulette to blackjack and poker to baccarat, Woo Casino offers forty table games. The live casino is also stylish and entertaining, with approximately 60 tables where you can play live versions of the aforementioned Live Dealer Games, as well as games like Dreamcatcher and Lightning.
The Woo Casino games category called Bonus Games is worth a try. This huge collection contains fun different games from slots to keno to table games and virtual sports.
Woo Casino Bonuses
If you appreciate a generous new player WELCOME BONUS package, Woo Casino may well be the place for you. For those who dare to place the maximum bets, there is up to $1200 in deposit bonus and 100 free spins. There is no crazier catch! Of course, even with smaller deposits, you get really good value for money.
The Woo Casino welcome bonuses in all their glory look like this:

100% First Deposit Bonus up to $500 + 50 free spins
with a deposit of 50% Second Deposit Bonus of up to $200
with a deposit of 125% bonus up to $500 + 50 free spins

As you can see, the first and third deposits, in particular, generate a lot of bonus money to add to your bankroll.
Be sure to use the NEW bonus codes at every step of the way, otherwise, you’ll be left empty-handed. At Woo Casino bonus code seem to be heavily used in almost all other campaigns, so check it out every time and tap the right code when you receive your deposit bonuses and/or free spins.

Deposits And Withdrawals
The payment options at Woo Casino are extremely wide, so you’re sure to find an option that suits your needs. There are no fees for deposits and withdrawals. You can choose from Visa, Mastercard, bank transfer, Trustly, Euteller, Neteller, Skrill, Paysafecard, Siru Mobile, and Zimpler. Withdrawal requests are processed within three business days, but please note that the payment method you choose may cause additional delays regardless of the Woo Casino. The fastest withdrawal methods are usually online wallets, and the slowest are credit cards and bank transfers.
Responsible Gaming
Woo Casino Online is dedicated to promoting responsible gaming and keeping its players safe. Responsible gaming means playing games of chance sensibly, with the understanding that all activities on our platform should remain entertaining. We believe gambling should never be seen as a way of making money or a source of income but rather enjoyed for its entertaining aspects.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/cricket/australia/348505/woo-casino-welcome-bonuses-for-australians-player

Basketball Without Borders tips off 13th BWB Asia Camp at New York University Abu Dhabi

Basketball Without Borders (BWB), the NBA and FIBA’s global basketball development and community outreach program, tipped off the 13th BWB Asia Camp at New York University Abu Dhabi, which featured 78 of the top high-school age boys and girls from more than 20 countries and territories from across Asia and the Middle East.
Middle East countries represented include Iran, Jordan, Oman, Qatar and UAE.
This year, BWB Asia participants had the opportunity to learn from current NBA players Saddiq Bey (Atlanta Hawks) and Monte Morris (Washington Wizards), and NBA veterans Taj Gibson (most recently with the Washington Wizards), Rodney McGruder (most recently with the Detroit Pistons) and Vladimir Radmanovic. NBA assistant coaches John Bryant (Chicago Bulls), Ryan Forehan-Kelly (Brooklyn Nets), Jim Moran (Detroit Pistons), Ryan Richman (Wizards), Sean Sweeney (Dallas Mavericks) and Mike Weinar (Indiana Pacers); NBA Global Academy Technical Director Marty Clarke; and NBA Basketball School Dubai Technical Director Phil Galvin served as BWB Asia coaches, while Nina Hsieh (Charlotte Hornets) served as the camp’s athletic trainer.
In collaboration with FIBA and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, BWB Asia 2023 began with an opening ceremony, which included remarks from FIBA National Federations & Sport Senior Manager Kosta Iliev, NBA Europe and Middle East Managing Director Ralph Rivera, DCT Abu Dhabi Strategic Affairs Executive Director Saeed Ali Al Fazari, NBA Asia Head of Basketball Operations Carlos Barroca, NBA Head of International Basketball Operations Chris Ebersole and Atlanta Hawks forward Saddiq Bey.
In the afternoon session, campers participated in a series of on-court drills focusing on enhancing fundamental basketball skills, learned a combination of team offensive and defensive concepts, and competed in 5-on-5 games.
In conjunction with BWB Asia 2023, the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi Elite Camp also tipped off the 3-day event at New York University Abu Dhabi, which brought together 40 of the top boys and girls ages 15 and under from the Jr. NBA Abu Dhabi League to participate in fundamental skill development and 5-on-5 competition.
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NBA Head of International Basketball Operations Chris Ebersole
“Basketball Without Borders is our longest-running elite development program and we’re thrilled to have the 13th edition of the BWB Asia Camp for the first time in the Arabian Gulf.  Together with FIBA and DCT Abu Dhabi, we’re committed to providing our boys and girls from across Asia and the Middle East with a memorable experience on and off the court as they train under the guidance of some of the best players and coaches in the world.”
FIBA National Federations & Sport Senior Manager Kosta Iliev
“Basketball Without Borders builds on a decades-long collaboration between FIBA and the NBA that provides a tremendous opportunity to the most talented kids in Asia and the Middle East to grow and to reach the highest possible level in basketball.  The campers will learn from some of the best coaches in the game and will compete and interact with some of the best players from other countries and cultures, which will give them a different perspective and vision for the future.”
Atlanta Hawks forward Saddiq Bey
“I’m excited to be part of my first Basketball Without Borders Asia Camp and experience the unique brand of basketball played on this side of the world.  BWB is a great reminder that basketball transcends cultural boundaries and I’m looking forward to maximizing this opportunity to engage and connect with the boys and girls through our shared love for the game.”

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/jr-nba-uae/348497/basketball-without-borders-tips-off-13th-bwb-asia-camp-at-new-york-university-abu-dhabi

Saudi Pro League: Puma enter ground-breaking sponsorship agreement with Al Hilal until 2027

Puma has announced its official five-year sponsorship with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hilal FC.
The groundbreaking partnership will seek to transform the country’s thriving and passionate football culture with dynamic new initiatives and products.
Puma will design unique bespoke team wear and training equipment for both the Al-Hilal men and women’s football teams starting from the 2023-2024 season.
The partnership marks Puma’s continued expansion into football, meeting the region’s ever-growing passion for the game with one of the Arab World’s most celebrated and successful football clubs.
Commenting on the partnership, The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Hilal Club Mr. Fahad Bin Saad Bin Nafel said: “We’re delighted about this new partnership with Puma until 2027.
“The long-term nature of this agreement means both parties are committed to work together with a strong focus on bringing global exposure for the team as well as developing new campaigns and initiatives which place our communities in the spotlight.
“We are excited to start our journey together with PUMA being the first in the region with our very own bespoke kit designs and we believe that this partnership will set a new benchmark for Saudi football.”
Puma Middle East GM, Taner Seyis, added: “The partnership we signed with Al-Hilal provides new opportunities with one of the world’s most passionate football fanbases, in a market that is seeing unprecedented growth and dynamism across all industries. We are committed to working together with Al- Hilal, in the Kingdom and globally, to deliver impact both on and off the pitch.”
As part of the partnership, we will see both organizations working together to provide long-term initiatives for Saudi youth, connect with local communities, and create exclusive Puma product ranges to the delight of fans across the Kingdom and the globe.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/football/saudi-professional-league/348495/saudi-pro-league-puma-enter-ground-breaking-sponsorship-agreement-with-al-hilal-until-2027

RED BULL HALF COURT UAE FINAL: LOCAL BASKETBALL STARS AIM TO WIN THEIR WAY TO GLOBAL RECOGNITION

Dubai, UAE – The countdown is on for local basketball stars as they prepare to face off for a chance to represent the UAE on the global stage. Following weeks of qualifiers across the Emirates, the Red Bull Half Court UAE final will bring together the best streetballers to compete at Satwa Park, Dubai on Saturday, 3 June with a place in the global finals at stake.
Red Bull Half Court is a 3v3 streetball tournament which has gathered electrifying talents from over 30 countries, all vying for the grand prize at the finals in Serbia this September.
In the UAE the event has grown in partnership with property developer Arada, bringing the thrilling blend of streetball, music, fashion, and street art to local communities, under the patronage of Dubai Sports Council. For the upcoming final, the Satwa Park court is set to be revitalised, leaving a legacy for the area in collaboration with Dubai Municipality.
Egyptian basketball superstar Nadine Selaawi is a global ambassador for Red Bull Half Court; the Al Ahly Basketball and Egyptian national team star is a record-breaker at college level in the USA.
Following last year’s final in her native Cairo, she believes players from the Emirates could have what it takes in a format which showcases different skills compared to the traditional format, “Last year the UAE team showed up big. I believe this time around, based on what I’ve seen from the competition there, they might have a fair chance of winning it all.”
“3×3 is an intimate game, an individual team game, and you get to express yourself and your skills more than you might in a regular basketball game,” Selaawi added.
Indeed, the format of the event is something which many basketball fans love about the competition and something which could also favour the eventual winner of the UAE final.
Ehab Amin is the male ambassador for Red Bull Half Court, the Al Ahly and Egyptian national team hero also had an excellent college career in the United States. Speaking on the competition he said, “Half Court is such a dynamic format, it’s faster with a short shot clock, every player has to do more and there’s less space so you need a team of people who can all pass, dribble, dunk – there can be no weakness!”
He added, “All the teams are close with the knockouts often decided by 2 or 3 points, it could be anyone’s game.”
Ehab’s thoughts are echoed another of the Middle East’s biggest basketball stars, Wael Arakji. The Lebanese player most recently led his country to the finals of the 2022 FIBA Asia Cup, earning the MVP award for the tournament.
Arakji says the event comes at a golden time for basketball in the region, “Enthusiasm and hunger for the sport has never been at this level. Arab countries have been very present and reaching top positions. I’ve played in teams in Tunisia, Qatar, Kuwait and I’m seeing the quality of competition in the UAE, the support for the game and the excitement with the fans is extremely strong.”
Speaking on the event in Dubai, Arakji expects more to come from UAE talent, “I took part in last year’s exhibition game in the Red Bull Half Court UAE Final in Dubai, and it was great to be there and watch the games that went on. This year will be even more skilful as they know the format and I’m really looking forward to witnessing it.”
The Red Bull Half Court UAE final takes place on 3 June in Satwa, Dubai with the winners going on to the global finals in Serbia in September.

from Sport360 – Latest Sports News https://sport360.com/article/other/regional-basketball/348463/red-bull-half-court-uae-final-local-basketball-stars-aim-to-win-their-way-to-global-recognition

Tim Xenos on Innovations in Athletic Equipment and Training Methods | Sydney, Australia

Constant innovation in sports is driving athletes and teams to new heights. Advances in athletic equipment and training methods are revolutionizing how athletes train, perform, and stay safe. From cutting-edge technologies to data-driven approaches, these innovations are shaping the future of sports. Several exciting innovations in athletic equipment and training methods enhance performance, reduce the risk of injuries, and push the boundaries of human achievement.

Smart Wearables and Sensor Technology

Smart wearables and sensor technology have emerged as game-changers in athletic training and performance monitoring. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to embedded sensors in clothing and equipment, athletes can now access real-time performance data. These devices can track heart rate, body temperature, speed, acceleration, and other biometric data. This information allows athletes and coaches to fine-tune training routines, optimize performance, and prevent overexertion or injury.

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual and augmented reality technologies have entered sports training and performance analysis. VR enables athletes to experience simulated game scenarios, enhancing their decision-making, spatial awareness, and reaction times. AR overlays digital information in the real world, providing athletes immediate feedback during training sessions. By immersing athletes in realistic and interactive environments, VR and AR are transforming training methods and helping athletes improve their skills and performance.

Advanced Materials in Equipment

Innovative materials are revolutionizing the design and construction of athletic equipment. For example, carbon fiber composites produce lightweight, durable equipment like tennis rackets and bicycles. These materials offer increased strength and flexibility, leading to improved performance. Similarly, advancements in textile engineering have led to the development of moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics, enhancing comfort and reducing the risk of overheating during intense physical activity.

Biomechanical Analysis

The biomechanical analysis involves studying the mechanics of human movement to optimize performance and prevent injuries. High-speed cameras, motion sensors, and force plates capture and analyze athletes’ movements, providing detailed insights into their technique, joint forces, and muscle activation. This data helps coaches and trainers identify areas for improvement, implement corrective measures, and design customized training programs that maximize performance potential while minimizing the risk of injuries.

Data Analytics and Machine Learning

Data analytics and machine learning transform how athletes and teams train and compete. By collecting and analyzing vast amounts of performance data, including training loads, competition results, and biometric information, machine learning algorithms can identify patterns, trends, and correlations, humans may not easily recognize. This enables coaches and trainers to make data-driven decisions, personalize training programs, and optimize performance strategies tailored to individual athletes.

Injury Prevention and Recovery Techniques

Innovations in athletic equipment and training methods also focus on minimizing the risk of injuries and expediting recovery. For instance, impact-absorbing materials and helmets, and protective gear designs help reduce the severity of head injuries in contact sports. Additionally, advancements in recovery techniques, such as cryotherapy, compression therapy, and vibration therapy, aid in muscle recovery, reduce inflammation and accelerate healing.

Virtual Training and Remote Coaching

The rise of digital connectivity has enabled virtual training and remote coaching, making it possible for athletes to receive guidance and feedback from experts regardless of their physical location. Through video analysis, real-time feedback platforms, and virtual coaching sessions, athletes can access the expertise of top coaches and trainers, even if they are halfway across the globe. This opens up opportunities for talent development and enables athletes to benefit from specialized coaching tailored to their specific needs.

Conclusion

Innovations in athletic equipment and training methods are revolutionizing the world of sports, pushing athletes to new levels of performance while prioritizing safety and well-being. From intelligent wearables and sensor technology to virtual reality training and advanced materials in equipment, these advancements provide athletes and teams with unprecedented insights, personalized training programs, and enhanced performance potential. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more exciting innovations that will shape the future of sports, propelling athletes to new heights and inspiring the next generation of champions.

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