Saudi Hawks Aerobatic Team took part in the International Aerobatics Championships-2008 in Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) which ran from January 24-27. The team, formed in 1998, has taken part in six championships winning two consecutive gold medals in 2004 and 2005. In a statement to Saudi Press Agency, Team Leader Major Pilot Abdullah Al Ghamdi said that the team "has gained world-wide popularity since the 2004 and 2005 triumphs". He also added that "the three-member crew can perform in 24 different formations". The Al Ain International Aerobatics Championship-2008 has attracted a host of pilots and teams from a number of countries with the Saudi Hawks joining its impressive list of performers.