Some of the world’s most promising figure skaters will be in Abu Dhabi this weekend and besides witnessing the action, there’s plenty of off-rink entertainment lined up for spectators.
The FBMA Trophy for figure skating returns for another edition from tomorrow to Saturday at Zayed Sports City and will see more than 90 competitors from 23 countries, including the UAE, Australia and Canada, take to the rink for top honours.
In addition to the ice skating action, there will also be a winter festival at the ice rink garden, which will include bouncy castles and fun activities to keep everyone entertained. Since launching in 2015, the competition has gone from strength to strength and this year’s is set to be no different.
“The success of the FBMA Trophy is attributed to the fact that we have organised smooth and professional figure skating events for the last two years,” said Roquiya Cochran, chairperson of the organising committee and UAE Ice Sports Federation figure skating manager.
“This year our number of participating countries has increased by 50 per cent and also our junior and senior level skater numbers have increased by over 200 per cent.”
The annual FBMA Trophy is set to hold its third competition.
UAE star and Olympic hopeful Zahra Lari will be among the Emiratis in action, hoping to fly the national flag high. And with free admission, Cochran insists it’s a competition not to be missed.
“Since winter sports are so unique in the Middle East, the ability to see the live action of a winter sport competition in Abu Dhabi, is what makes the FBMA Trophy a must-see event,” she said.
“To have world class competitors, as well as six UAE nationals compete here in Abu Dhabi is amazing. The levels range from basic novice up to seniors and to see double, triple and even quad jumps is a sight not to miss. This year we will also have outdoor activities for the spectators to enjoy.
“We will even have an outdoor rink for anyone who wants to try their own skating skills or get the feel of what the competitors are doing on the ice. It’s a very special time of the year and we would love for everyone to come and join this free FBMA Trophy international figure skating competition.”
She added: “We want to increase public awareness for this beautiful and unique winter sport and see it continue to grow, thrive and be a success. Without the continued support of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak and Sheikha Fatima Bint Hazza, such events would not be possible. Their continued and unfaltering support for women in sport is the driving force of these events.”
What: FBMA Trophy
Where: Zayed Sports City, Ice Rink
When: Thursday to Saturday from 11:30
Contact: For more information, visit www.zsc.ae
