Local and expatriate talent to be honed for international competition
Dubai: Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates has formed its first-ever snowsports team of local and expatriate skiers, snowboarders and free-stylists, who will be honed to compete internationally.
The squad of 17 talents was selected through competition nights at the facility and will now be overseen by former British youth team coach Mike Barker, who went to two youth winter Olympics. Former Moroccan national team skier and race coach Mohammad Moulay is also part of the set-up.
The project is headed by Chris David, snowsports operations manager at Ski Dubai, who is a former Team GB athlete and coach.
All sponsored athletes will receive Ski Dubai membership and coaching sessions, as well as equipment and sportswear.
“At Ski Dubai, we are committed to supporting the UAE’s efforts to encourage active lifestyles and I am personally proud to have been a part of cultivating and championing such strong local talent on our slopes,” said Ski Dubai general manager, Mohammad Al Etri. “The whole concept of Ski Dubai was guided by the vision of our founder, Majid Al Futtaim and his aspirations of bringing snow to the desert.
“Now after more than a decade in the desert, we have fostered a winter sports culture in the UAE and welcome about one million guests a year, which is regarded as the international benchmark for any major ski resort.
“This strong foundation has given us the platform to attract and showcase the talent of the UAE through our sponsored athletes team, who we hope can become internationally recognised.”
A full squad will be announced shortly.