Cliff divers Catalin Preda of Romania and David Colturi, from the USA, became the first to dive into Saudi Arabia’s wadis on Tuesday in the run-up to the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series 2024.
During a hike and dive experience through the rough and rugged natural landscapes of Wadis Lajab and Al-Rough in Jazan, Preda and Colturi explored canyons, valleys, waterfalls and freshwater ponds.
A two-time World Series stop winner, Preda said he was in awe of the Kingdom’s cliff search experience. “It was beautiful to see the majesty and the special nature of these particular spots. Arriving at the locations was absolutely mind blowing, seeing what they actually look in real life, only having seen a couple of pictures,” said the Romanian.
At 2.15 million sq. km, Saudi Arabia’s arid climate makes it the largest country in the world devoid of rivers, lakes or areas of lush natural vegetation. The duo had to embark on an expedition to discover hidden pools for their diving adventures.
In Jazan, the Kingdom’s heartland and an area noted for its fruit production, Preda and Colturi found what they were looking for in the form of two wadis with fresh water and dramatic views. This also meant interesting rock formations and unique take-off spots.
American Colturi said: “In Al-Rough, there’s a slanted cliff, and so you’ve got to work your way up and stand on a little bit of an angle, but decent footing. In Lajab, it’s a lot more contained. You’ve got the boulder rock, you’ve got the slanted wall with the 13-meter take offs, and then you’ve got the high perch around 20 meters.”
Describing the dives themselves as the most difficult challenge, the 34-year-old added: “From the 15 years that I’ve been in cliff diving, it was a unique and cool opportunity to do our art form in such a beautiful location.”
As the cliff divers headed back to prepare for the 15th season of the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series, which starts in Athens on May 26, Preda summed up the adventure: “A trip full of discoveries and trials from the very beginning. Some battle scars as well, but a truly memorable experience.”—APP
