DOHA: Participation in Katara’s third annual Senyar Festival has seen an unprecedented increase compared to its previous editions, say organisers.
The number of participating teams for the festival of traditional fishing and pearl diving competition has reached 55, each with eight to 11 members or 450 to 600 sailors.
This means the volume of participation is three times compared to the inaugural edition two years ago.
In view of the unexpected number of participants, the organising committee had to stop registration, said Ahmed Al Hitmi, Chairman of the committee. The rush for registration, he said, was driven by the popularity of the competition with Qataris in various age groups.
The competition starts on April 16 when teams will embark on a four-day journey in Sealine. It will conclude on April 19 with Al Qafal arrival ceremony for the participants at Katara where pearl divers and sailors will be received in a traditional way.
Al Hitmi urged all participants to submit the required documents before March 27 to Katara Beaches administration.
There will be 55 judges and 60 committee members and assistants responsible to follow up and supervise the competing teams based on rules and standards used in the previous editions. The committee will provide 15 speedboats for judging.
Dr Khalid bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, Katara General Manager, said Katara is hosting the cultural and traditional event due to its importance in promoting Qatari customs and traditions to the new generation, taking into consideration the strong relation of Qatari people with the sea. This is one of the traditional events that teach participants patience in facing challenges and risks and solidarity and support for each other during the tough journey, he said.The Peninsula
