Doha, Qatar – The 17th Marmi International Falconry and Hunting Festival resumed competitions on Monday after a one-day suspension due to unfavorable weather conditions. The prestigious festival, held at Marmi Sabkha in Sealine under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, celebrates a deeply rooted Arabian tradition and draws participants from across the region. Qualifying rounds for both the Al-Talaa and Haddad Al-Tahadi championships were postponed as a safety precaution.
The decision to temporarily halt competitions on Sunday came as wind speeds increased following the successful completion of qualifying rounds for Group 11 in the Al-Talaa Championship. Organizers prioritize participant safety and fair competition, leading to the postponement of further rounds for Groups 12-15 and the third group of the Haddad Al-Tahadi Championship.
Resumption of Marmi International Falconry Championships
Monday’s schedule saw the resumption of the Al-Talaa Championship with qualifying rounds for Groups 16 through 20. The Haddad Al-Tahadi Championship for Group 4 also continued as planned in the evening. Mohammed bin Mubarak Al-Ali, Head of Committees and official spokesperson for the Marmi Festival, confirmed the restart and emphasized the ongoing monitoring of weather conditions.
Weather’s Impact on Falcon Competitions
Falconry is highly sensitive to environmental factors. Strong winds pose a significant challenge to falcons during their flight and pursuit, impacting their performance and potentially endangering their well-being. According to festival officials, these conditions make it difficult to ensure a level playing field for all competitors.
The postponement of competitions underscores the festival’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of organization and participant welfare. Al-Ali stated that rescheduling allows for the return to “ideal conditions and clear visibility,” ensuring fair assessment of each falcon’s capabilities. This commitment extends to maintaining the festival’s position as a leading heritage event dedicated to falconry and hunting traditions in the region.
Understanding the Championships
The Al-Talaa Championship focuses on speed, testing the falcon’s ability to cover a designated distance in the shortest amount of time. The Haddad Al-Tahadi Championship, a separate and equally competitive event, assesses different aspects of a falcon’s skill, often incorporating lure courses and controlled flight patterns. Both championships are critical components of the Marmi Festival, highlighting the multifaceted skills involved in traditional hunting practices.
The Marmi Festival isn’t solely about competition, it’s also a cultural showcase. It offers opportunities for education about the history and techniques of falconry, as well as the vital role falcons play in Arabian heritage. The event also promotes responsible bird conservation and sustainable hunting practices.
Competitors have expressed understanding and cooperation regarding the schedule adjustments, according to Al-Ali. Their acknowledgement of the necessary precautions demonstrates a shared dedication to the integrity of the sport and the welfare of the animals involved.
Further competitions in the Haddad Al-Tahadi Championship are scheduled for Friday morning, January 9, contingent on favorable weather conditions. The organizing committee will continue to closely monitor forecasts and adjust the schedule as needed to prioritize safety and fairness. Monitoring wind speed and visibility will be critical throughout the remainder of the festival, which is set to conclude on January 24th. Any future disruptions will be announced through official festival channels and local media.
The remaining days of the Marmi International Falconry Festival will be dependent on the prevailing weather conditions, with organizers committed to completing all scheduled championships while upholding the safety of participants and birds.
