Bungee jumping competition in Dubai: More than a leap of faith

Organisers of a bungee jumping competition in Dubai tomorrow (Friday) are hopeful that the contest will help establish a UAE Bungee Federation, and put bungee jumping on the competitive sports map in the region.

The sport, definitely, is not for the faint-hearted, but for those who believe they have it in them to literally jump off a cliff with a rope tied to their ankle, the leap of faith is endorsed by the Dubai Sports Council.

The jumpers will be briefed on the technical and safety aspect of the bungee, before jumping off 50m high cranes, say organisers.

It is after all a free-fall jump, but in case you were wondering how the ‘winners’ will be decided, a panel of judges will assess the jumps based on the time taken to leave the ledge, distance forward of the leap, consistency of body moves during the jump and style of jump.

“Additional scores will be marked for freestyle and backward jumps,” says Ramez Shawki, managing director of Gravity Zone, which is organising the contest.

While fearlessness is a plus, lack of previous bungee jumping experiences is not a prerequisite, he says, adding that trophies will be awarded to top two male and female jumpers and for the best team jump (three players).

The contest will also put the spotlight on Breast Cancer Arabia and raise awareness for the organisation. Representatives of the organisation will participate in the jump, and also guide residents who wish to make a donation.

“The idea was to create an event where we could offer the experience of bungee jumping in a fun group environment and add an exciting competitive element to it,” adds Shawki.

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