It’s go time, Falcons! With another exciting race weekend fast approaching, the Desert Falcons are revving up for one of the biggest events of the season—the IDBF MENA+ Club Crew Championship 2025. The team is setting their sights on a powerful performance, with every training session, lineup, and strategy fine-tuned to meet the rules of this high-level dragon boat showdown.
Let’s break down what’s coming, what’s required, and how we’re getting ready to race!
🐉 What’s the IDBF MENA+ Challenge?
The IDBF MENA+ Challenge isn’t just any race—it’s a major event bringing together top teams from across the Middle East and North Africa, with categories tailored to showcase paddling talent at all levels. It’s a blend of intense competition and regional pride, with strict international standards set by the International Dragon Boat Federation (IDBF).
The Desert Falcons will be participating in various race divisions, including:
- Corporate and UAE Divisions (up to 20 paddlers, no drummer, helms may be provided)
- Community Races (12 paddlers max, perfect for local crews)
- IDBF MENA+ Competitive Races (with helm and drummer required)
🛶 Key Rules Every Falcon Must Know
Understanding the rules is half the race! Here’s what the team must keep in mind:
- ✅ Crew Limits: Depending on the category, teams must follow specific limits (e.g., 10 paddlers + drummer + helm for MENA+).
- ✅ Gender Ratios: Mixed categories must have 4-5 paddlers of each gender.
- ✅ Lane Discipline: Staying in your lane is a must—straying off can cost us penalties.
- ✅ Drummers & Helms: Required in competitive divisions, and must be provided by the team.
- ✅ PFDs Are Mandatory: All paddlers must wear Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) during the race.
- ✅ No Room for Delay: Report to marshalling 25 minutes early. No official will call—be responsible!
Pro tip: Read through the official rules document or check in with our team leads for any clarifications.
🧠 Strategy, Discipline, and Heart
While rules keep the playing field fair, it’s heart and hustle that win races. That’s why our recent Desert Falcons Green Shirt Training focused on endurance drills, race simulations, and clean technique. Everything we’re doing now is to prepare our minds and bodies for race day.
ICYMI: Check out the highlights from our last intense prep session right here 👉 Desert Falcons Green Shirt Training
💪 All Eyes on Performance
With over 30 teams from across the GCC and beyond expected to compete, our crew knows what’s at stake. From Open, Women, to Mixed categories, the Falcons are planning to field strong lineups that meet every rule and maximize every stroke.
The starting signal is simple: “Attention… GO!” But what happens in those few seconds depends on months of preparation. From seating plans to timing drills, every detail counts.
🦅 Ready to Soar with the Falcons?
Whether you’re paddling with us, cheering from the shore, or just curious about dragon boat racing, now’s the time to follow our journey. The IDBF MENA+ Challenge promises adrenaline, team spirit, and a chance to shine.
👉 Don’t miss our next update on the team lineup and call times. And for a taste of what our races are like, revisit our Dragon Boat Fitness Challenge—it’s full of energy, community, and Falcons’ pride!
🚣 Final Countdown Begins!
With the race date just around the corner, the Desert Falcons are laser-focused. We’re not just racing for medals—we’re racing for growth, unity, and a love for the sport.
📌 Stay tuned for the official race schedule, crew assignments, and more exciting training recaps on desertfalcon.1hizz.com
Let’s go, Falcons! 🦅🔥 Paddle strong, race smart, and fly high.
