JEDDAH: The two-day event of marine sports by Saudi coastguards and border guards concluded on Saturday in Jeddah.

The coastguard and border guard teams from various provinces participated in the event which is sponsored by General Presidency of Youth Welfare.

The event is part of preparation for prestigious Gulf Boating Tournament to be held at a later in United Arab Emirates, according to officials.

Capt. Samir Abdul Razaq Al Dowli, senior official of Saudi Navy, told Arab News that “all important organs of Saudi ministries including Coast Guard, Royal Navy and Border Guards are supporting the event.”

“We have chosen the sport of rowing boats for the competition that can display the real strength of Saudi coastguards in sea waters” Col. Najhi Al Juhani, senior official of Saudi Coast Guards, said.

Al Jahani said coast guards in collaboration with Prince Abdullah bin Musaed, president of GPYW, have conducted the event under the auspices of Admiral Awad Al Aradi, who is also president of the Saudi Arabian Maritime Sports Federation

“The spectacular marine sport event is aimed at enhancing the water gaming spirit which will positively contribute to all aspects of the coastal guards,” he added.

Jahani said, “The Saudi coastguard employees are playing an important role in water sports and represent the Kingdom in such events.”

Brig. Hamad Al Jaied explained the International norms and rules in the water games which are important to achieve success and boost the professional skills of personnel in water.

He added that some of the popular marine sports that teams played are sailing, boating, fishing, rowing, and racing rows in singles and doubles.

The Saudi Arabian Maritime Sports Federation (SAMSF) was established in 2008 to promote maritime sports in Saudi Arabia. The SAMSF aims to provide maritime sports to both residents and tourists.

The SAMSF helps by providing facilities and organizing events for many sports looking to develop in Saudi Arabia. It also supports and develops athletes in all maritime disciplines to compete on an international level.