Oman- Wadi Shab will be test of skills, says top cliff diver 

(MENAFN - Muscat Daily) The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has said that holding the finals of the Red Bull Cliff Diving Series in the sultanate was a matter of great pleasure. Divers, on the other hand, said that it would be great test of their skills.The finals will be held on Thursday at Wadi Shab, where 14 of the world's top cliff divers will compete for the honours by diving from a height of 27.5m.Speaking at a press conference at Crowne Plaza Muscat on Monday, Ibrahim al Maharouqi, an MoT representative, said, ''It is a pleasure for us to host one of the most exciting sports in the world here at the sultanate. With cooperation of the Wali of Sur, the local community and the ROP, the Red Bull Cliff Diving competition will definitely be an high-adrenaline experience for spectators.''He said such events boost tourism in the country.The advantages that divers will have in Oman are warm waters and absence of strong winds. However, Gary Hunt, two-time champion of the series, said, ''The main challenge is that of a frontal cliff. Normally, we are used to diving without any frontal view.''At Wadi Shab, there is a cliff right in front of the jumping pad. We have to be alert and take a good measure of the water. It will be a great test of our skills and concentration.''The Red Bull team has taken precautionary measures. Helicopters and scuba divers will be on standby throughout the event.