Saudi brothers make waves in open-water swimming

The Saudi brothers completed Manhattan’s 20 Bridges swim, a 48.5 km loop around the island, and one of three swims that constitute ‘the triple crown’ of open-water swimming. (Supplied)
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The Saudi brothers completed Manhattan’s 20 Bridges swim, a 48.5 km loop around the island, and one of three swims that constitute ‘the triple crown’ of open-water swimming. (Supplied)
Saudi brothers make waves in open-water swimming
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The Saudi brothers completed Manhattan’s 20 Bridges swim, a 48.5 km loop around the island, and one of three swims that constitute ‘the triple crown’ of open-water swimming. (Supplied)
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Updated 18 August 2024
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Saudi brothers make waves in open-water swimming

Saudi brothers make waves in open-water swimming
  • Abdulrahman and Ghaith Boksmati are the first Saudis to complete Manhattan’s 20 Bridges swim

RIYADH: Abdulrahman Boksmati and Ghaith Boksmati from Jeddah are the first Saudis to complete the 20 Bridges swim in Manhattan, New York.

The 48.5 km loop around the island is one of three swims that constitute “the triple crown” of open-water swimming. The title is bestowed on swimmers who complete the Catalina Channel, the English Channel, and the largest of the three, the Manhattan 20 Bridges.

Abdulrahman, who has been swimming with Ghaith for more than 13 years, completed the English Channel swim in 2021, making him only the fourth Saudi to do so — and bringing him one swim away from earning the title.




The Saudi brothers completed Manhattan’s 20 Bridges swim, a 48.5 km loop around the island, and one of three swims that constitute ‘the triple crown’ of open-water swimming. (Supplied)

Both brothers are engineers at Saudi Aramco: Abdulrahman, 26, has a degree in electrical and electronics engineering and has been working as a control engineer for three years, and Ghaith, 23, holds a degree in computer science and engineering and has been working as a networks engineer for a year.

“I have to attribute our start with swimming to our father, to our parents,” Abdulrahman told Arab News. “My father used to be a national team swimmer, and he got us (siblings) into swimming at an early age.”

While it started as a pastime, the brothers quickly picked up the sport professionally and started training with Al-Ittihad. They joined the Golden Swimmer team in middle and high school — founded by coach Abdullah Al-Jehani — participating in both local and international swimming competitions.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Abdulrahman Boksmati completed the English Channel swim in 2021, making him only the fourth Saudi to do so.

• The 'triple crown' title is bestowed on swimmers who complete the Catalina Channel, the English Channel, and the largest of the three, the Manhattan 20 Bridges.

Even though the hot Saudi climate should encourage more swimming facilities, the brothers said that growing up it was a struggle to find accessible and affordable 25-meter pools outside of schools, compounds and gyms — and this continues to be the case.

Abdulrahman said that local swimmers are often forced to seek out other clubs’ reservation times and join their sessions.




The brothers expressed their desire to continue the swimming tradition with their families in the future as well, citing its physical and psychological benefits. (Supplied)

It was during their years at university that the brothers were first introduced to open-water swimming through Red Top Swim, a UK team led by coach Tim Denyer.

Abdulrahman said that he was unhappy with the progress he had been making in swimming and during his last year at university decided that it was time for a challenge, which is how he came to swim the English Channel.

As the only prior experience that they had was in a pool — a controlled environment — one of the first lessons the Boksmati brothers learned was how dependent open-water swimming is on the conditions of the day. Swimming the English Channel, according to Abdulrahman, can “take anywhere between eight to 16 hours.”

It was very important to keep the spirits up, push each other to the finish.

Ghaith Boksmati, Saudi swimmer

Abdulrahman swam the English Channel 40 years after the last Saudi achieved this, in 1981.

While open-water swimming has not gained much traction in the Saudi swimming community, the brothers are hopeful that many more swimmers will want to attempt such challenges once word gets around, especially since age and speed are not a prerequisite.

“A lot of people I’ve seen do the English Channel would be anywhere from their mid-20s to their mid-60s. Anyone can do it if they train well enough for it,” Abdulrahman said.

The 20 Bridges swim, unlike the English Channel’s Atlantic Ocean setting, was in the middle of a bustling metropolitan city. And with city views came city troubles.

“It was the waviest water I’ve ever swam in,” Abdulrahman said, adding that the experience can make swimmers very dizzy and nauseous.

Ghaith said that because the swim took place on a Saturday, the amount of boat traffic was unusually high: “Whenever the boats pass by, it adds more waves to the mix … that slows us down.”

He explained that the combination of the waves, waft of gasoline from boats and unpleasant smells coming from some sections of the dirty water, as well as occasionally being hit by unknown foreign objects, made the eight hour and 36 minute swim a test of patience and mental endurance.

“At one point I thought maybe this is a bit too much … you’re not swimming in a pool, you’re swimming in an ecosystem,” Ghaith said.

Abdulrahman remembered the advice he was given by Denyer before the swim to get him through: “Just imagine this is your nine-to-five, eight-hour job today. Instead of control engineering, it’s swimming. No way around it.”

And most importantly, don’t look forward. “Looking toward the end defeats the purpose, it actually demotivates you,” he said. “You swim for 30 minutes and then you look up again and it’s the same view. It takes a toll on you mentally.”

However, at the end of the day, all the troubles were worth it for the experience. “Yes, there were many obstacles we didn’t account for,” Abdulrahman said, “but it was truly a pleasure, honestly, to witness Manhattan and New York from another lens, through the water.”

When asked about training for a swim like this, the brothers emphasized the importance of cold plunges to adjust the body to low temperatures.

In the months and weeks leading up to the 20 Bridges, Abdulrahman and Ghaith woke at 5am every day to practice before their workdays started, coordinating their pace as much as possible.

They also had to work around unforeseen circumstances after Ghaith suffered a collarbone fracture during a sprint triathlon two months prior to the swim and was benched for four weeks.

On a six-hour practice swim that they completed prior to the challenge to ensure their ability to handle long distances, the brothers tested the feeding schedule they would have on swim day. The feeds come in 30-minute intervals and include a mix of carbohydrate powders and fizz-free soda to keep the swimmers’ energy levels high.

They would also use this time during the swim to check in with one another. “That was very important to keep the spirits up, push each other to the finish,” Ghaith said.

When asked what drove them to keep pursuing the sport over the years, they highlighted both personal and communal motivators.

“I want to see what I can accomplish and how much I can push myself,” Ghaith said. “The problem faced by a lot of swimmers is that swimming can get boring … you’re in the water all the time, there’s no teamwork.”

Abdulrahman said that senior swimmers would hold him accountable during training by tracking his progress online and sending a “You’re going to drown in the Channel” message anytime he missed a session. Terrifying, yet effective.

“There’s a lot of inspiration from our peers,” Ghaith said. He added that the swimming community in Saudi Arabia did a good job of keeping track of one another across different clubs, achievements and phases in life, bonded by mutual admiration and the desire to constantly improve and better themselves.

In the quest for the triple crown, the brothers hope to make it a family affair by completing the English Channel as a relay swim along with their two other brothers and father later this year, an achievement that could cement the Boksmati family name as a powerhouse in the Saudi swimming community.

The brothers also expressed their desire to continue the swimming tradition with their families in the future as well, citing its physical and psychological benefits.

“It (swimming) instills a lot of good values when it comes to things like discipline, keeping your cool, being competitive, patience,” Abdulrahman said.

The brothers, along with athletes such as 16-year-old swimmer Zaid Al-Sarraj, the youngest member of the Saudi Olympic team this year, and taekwondo star Dunya Abu Taleb, the first Saudi female to qualify for the Olympics on merit without the need for a wildcard invitation, are inspiring a new generation to keep raising the bar for sport in the Kingdom.

 


Saudi women rise: W20 to ‘address systemic barriers’

Miznah Al-Omair. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Miznah Al-Omair. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
Updated 1 min 47 sec ago
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Saudi women rise: W20 to ‘address systemic barriers’

Miznah Al-Omair. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)
  • Head of Saudi delegation Miznah Al-Omair unpacks women’s empowerment agenda

RIYADH: In a world where women’s economic participation is crucial for sustainable development, the W20 initiative is amplifying women’s voices within the G20 framework.

A beacon of advocacy and action, the Saudi delegation for Women 20, or W20, is led by Miznah Al-Omair, CEO of Al-Nahda Society, which was founded in 1963 to empower women in Saudi Arabia.

In an interview with Arab News, Al-Omair emphasized the importance of including women’s issues in G20 dialogues: “The role of women must be considered in decision-making processes, as these decisions impact women’s economic realities.” This perspective underscores the need for a platform that prioritizes women’s voices in global economic policy discussions.

Through its strategic initiatives, W20 seeks to foster gender equality and empower women economically, ensuring their concerns are heard and integrated into high-level discussions, she said.

We must ensure that every woman can voice her needs and aspirations in the economic landscape, fostering an environment where they can thrive.

Miznah Al-Omair, Head of W20 Saudi delegation

W20 operates independently while maintaining connections with government entities. Its main objective is to ensure women’s issues are integrated into G20 discussions, official declarations and commitments, shaping the agenda of this influential forum.

By advocating for policies addressing the particular challenges women face, the W20 initiative is creating a more equitable economic landscape.

Host countries play a key role in shaping the W20 agenda by identifying areas that reflect their specific contexts. For instance, Brazil’s focus this year highlights the intersection of race and ethnicity with women’s economic challenges.

Al-Omair explained: “By examining the unique challenges women face based on their race and ethnicity, we can develop targeted solutions that address systemic barriers.”

This approach allows for a nuanced understanding of women’s diverse experiences and facilitates the creation of tailored solutions to address their needs.

W20 collaborates with various stakeholders to compile evidence-based recommendations for women’s economic empowerment. These recommendations are presented to G20 leaders for adoption, promoting best practices that can be tailored to different national contexts.

“If a successful program exists in one country, we encourage others to adopt similar frameworks that can benefit women economically,” Al-Omair said. This collaborative spirit is crucial for building a unified approach to women’s empowerment across nations.

Since Saudi Arabia hosted the W20 summit in 2020, significant progress has been made in advancing women’s roles in the economy. The focus has shifted from simply including women in discussions to actively promoting their participation and leadership in various sectors.

“We have made tremendous advancements, and our efforts are reflected in the increasing visibility and effective roles of women in various sectors,” she said. This progress is notable, yet it highlights the ongoing challenges women face in achieving full economic participation.

Despite these advancements, obstacles remain. Women’s participation often depends on individual aspirations and the supportive infrastructures present in different sectors.

“While reforms to laws and regulations promote gender equality, equal opportunities in the private sector have yet to be achieved,” Al-Omair said.

This variability underscores the need for continued advocacy and the development of frameworks that foster an inclusive environment for women.

One standout initiative from Al-Nahda Society is its financial literacy program, launched in 2017. This program equips women with essential skills in budgeting, planning and investment, promoting financial independence.

“This program has proven impactful, helping women gain financial independence and equipping them to launch and sustain their businesses,” the organization’s CEO said.

By focusing on financial literacy, the W20 agenda will empower women to take control of their economic futures.

“We must ensure that every woman can voice her needs and aspirations in the economic landscape, fostering an environment where they can thrive,” Al-Omair said.

This commitment to inclusivity is key to creating a future where women’s economic participation becomes the norm, not the exception.

W20’s collaborative efforts highlight the importance of context-sensitive approaches to women’s empowerment. Effective solutions must resonate with each country’s social and national frameworks.

 

 


Two Saudi military personnel dead, one wounded after attack in Yemen

Two Saudi military personnel dead, one wounded after attack in Yemen
Updated 2 min 32 sec ago
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Two Saudi military personnel dead, one wounded after attack in Yemen

Two Saudi military personnel dead, one wounded after attack in Yemen
  • Al-Maliki stated attack occurred on Friday evening during sports training at the camp
  • Bodies of fallen servicemen, injured officer transported to the Kingdom

RIYADH: A Saudi officer and a non-commissioned officer were killed, and another officer injured following an attack within the coalition forces camp in Sayoun in Yemen, the spokesperson for the Coalition to Support Legitimacy in Yemen, Brigadier General Turki Al-Maliki announced on Saturday.

Al-Maliki stated that the attack occurred on Friday evening during sports training at the camp.

The camp plays a critical role in supporting coalition forces, training personnel, combating terrorism and smuggling, and aiding humanitarian and development initiatives in Yemen, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The perpetrator, identified as being affiliated with the Yemeni Ministry of Defense, acted independently and does not reflect the values of the Ministry, SPA added. 

Al-Maliki underscored that most members of the Ministry appreciate the coalition’s significant efforts in supporting Yemeni legitimacy and alleviating the suffering of the Yemeni people.

The bodies of the fallen servicemen and the injured officer were transported to the Kingdom following their evacuation from Yemen.

Al-Maliki confirmed that the joint forces, in collaboration with the Yemeni Ministry of Defense, will conduct a comprehensive investigation to uncover the motives, apprehend the attacker, and bring him to justice.

Al-Maliki extendeded sincere condolences and sympathy on behalf of the coalition’s leadership to the families and loved ones of those killed, and wished the injured soldier a speedy recovery.


Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets Italian official

Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets Italian official
Updated 3 sec ago
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Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets Italian official

Deputy speaker of Saudi Shoura Council meets Italian official
  • The two officials discussed cooperation, and stressed the need to strengthen parliamentary relations in order to achieve common goals

BRASILIA: Deputy Speaker of the Saudi Shoura Council Mishaal bin Fahm Al-Salami met with President of the Italian Chamber of Deputies Lorenzo Fontana at the 10th G20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit (P20) recently in Brazil.

The two officials discussed cooperation, and stressed the need to strengthen parliamentary relations in order to achieve common goals, Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The meeting was attended by Shoura Council members Dr. Iman bint Abdulaziz Al-Jibreen and Yazid bin Mohammed Al-Tuwaijri.

 

 


Saudi Arabia arrests 20,778 illegals in one week

Saudi Arabia arrests 20,778 illegals in one week
Updated 1 min 21 sec ago
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Saudi Arabia arrests 20,778 illegals in one week

Saudi Arabia arrests 20,778 illegals in one week
  • Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom

RIYADH: Saudi authorities arrested 20,778 people in one week for breaching residency, work and border security regulations, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

According to an official report, a total of 11,523 people were arrested for violations of residency laws, while 5,711 were held over illegal border crossing attempts, and a further 3,544 for labor-related issues.

The report showed that among the 1,569 people arrested for trying to enter the Kingdom illegally, 73 percent were Ethiopian, 24 percent Yemeni, and 3 percent were of other nationalities.

A further 63 people were caught trying to cross into neighboring countries, and 15 were held for involvement in transporting and harboring violators.

The Ministry of Interior said that anyone found to be facilitating illegal entry to the Kingdom, including providing transportation and shelter, could face imprisonment for a maximum of 15 years, a fine of up to SR1 million ($260,000), as well as confiscation of vehicles and property.

Suspected violations can be reported on the toll-free number 911 in the Makkah and Riyadh regions, and 999 or 996 in other regions of the Kingdom.

 


Saudi aid continues to reach thousands in Gaza, Lebanon

Saudi aid continues to reach thousands in Gaza, Lebanon
Updated 09 November 2024
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Saudi aid continues to reach thousands in Gaza, Lebanon

Saudi aid continues to reach thousands in Gaza, Lebanon
  • The relief effort is being conducted in cooperation with the Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage
  • Saudi aid is crucial to supporting families as they confront daily hardships and critical shortages

RIYADH: Saudi aid agency KSrelief is continuing to provide essential food baskets to families in northern Gaza, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.
The relief effort is being conducted in cooperation with the Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage as part of a campaign initiated under the directives of the Saudi leadership.
The humanitarian situation in northern Gaza remains dire, exacerbated by ongoing hostilities and border closures. Saudi aid is crucial to supporting families as they confront daily hardships and critical shortages.
Meanwhile, the 21st aid plane sent from Riyadh to Lebanon arrived at Beirut-Rafic Hariri International Airport on Saturday, carrying food, shelter and medical supplies.
The aid, handled by KSrelief, will be used to assist the growing number of people displaced by Israeli airstrikes. The UAE, Turkiye, Iraq, Egypt, Jordan, Canada, Romania and France are also sending aid to Lebanon.
Since its inception in 2015, KSrelief has implemented more than 3,100 projects worth more than $7.1 billion in 104 countries, in cooperation with local, regional and international partners.