Abu Dhabi lands top sporting event

Wakestock Abu Dhabi will be the first stop on the 2010 WWA Wakeboard World Series [Getty Images].

The world's best wakeboarders are coming to Abu Dhabi in March for Wakestock Abu Dhabi 2010, the latest in the UAE capital's bid to attract top sports and entertainment events.

Abu Dhabi Beaches, in partnership with Flash Entertainment, are bringing the event to the Abu Dhabi Corniche from March 4-6.

The introduction of the World Pro Tour Water Sports event marks the next chapter in the development of the Abu Dhabi Corniche and the delivery of Abu Dhabi’s vision of the ‘ultimate beach experience’.

John Lickrish, managing director, Flash Entertainment, said: “We strive to offer the public new and diverse events and entertainment...Wakestock Abu Dhabi 2010 will go a long way to focusing international attention on just how much Abu Dhabi has to offer.”

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Wakestock Abu Dhabi will be the first stop on the 2010 WWA Wakeboard World Series and will include performances from live acts and DJs in a bid to establish itself as the world’s premiere wakeboarding and music festival.

Over its 10 year history, Wakestock has featured performances from acts such as Mark Ronson, Dizzee Rascal, Pendulum, Calvin Harris, N*E*R*D, Groove Armada, The Streets, Carl Cox, Pete Tong, Duffy and the Happy Mondays.

Mark Durston, Wakestock Founder and CEO, said: “Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, and the public beach in particular, is without a doubt one of the most amazing urban beaches I have ever seen. From Lulu Island to the backdrop of the city itself, and the beautiful blue waters of the Arabian gulf, I cannot imagine a more perfect setting for this fantastic sport and music event.”

The world’s top 16 riders have already confirmed their participation in the event.

Among the big name riders already confirmed to attend are current WWA World Series Champion Phillip Soven, WWA World Wakepark Champion Nick Davies, current US National Champion Adam Errington, current World Champion and King of Wake Champion Aaron Rathy, European Champion and four times Wakestock UK winner Dan Nott and wakeboarding legend Parks Bonifay.

Full details of the entertainment line-up will be announced closer to the event.