Omani creates record in freediving championship organised in Egypt
Yahya bin Said Nasser al Dhahli, 32, has become the first Omani to dive to a depth of 53m in Constant Weight with Fins (CWTBF) category in Egypt Free Diving Championship held off the coast of Dahab City.
CWTBF means that the diver has to descent and ascent with the same amount of weight.
Speaking to Muscat Daily,
Dhahli said, “The competition was held from November 3-9 and saw participation of 35 competitors from Oman, Brazil, Japan, China, Italy, Greece, Belgium, France, Colombia, Afghanistan, Morocco, Yemen, Algeria, Egypt, France, Italy, Saudi Arabia among others.”
CWTBF is a freediving discipline recognised by AIDA, the International Association for the Development of Apnea.
He said the competition was tough as there were experienced divers from around the world. “Cold water was a challenge. It required immense concentration and determination.”
Dhahli prepared for the championship by training daily for three hours. “On the first day, I dived to a depth of 45m, 51m on the second and 53m on the third day. There were training days in between the competition days.”
Describing freediving, Dhahli said it is done without using any breathing apparatus. “It requires the trainee to hold the breath and dive. You have to be courageous. I advise young Omanis to learn swimming and train under a specialist. Freediving is one of the ten most dangerous sports in the world. I have participated in many international competitions. I came first in the Static Apnea Competition 2018 at Middle East Dive and Fish Expo in Dubai.”
Of future plans, he said, “I plan to participate in international competitions but I need financial support.
“I will participate in the Oman Open Championship which will be held under the auspices of the Ministry of Sports Affairs at Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex on November 15 and 16.
“I thank everyone including family and friends for support.”