Mohammed bin Rashid attends Al Salam Cycling Desert Race

Sharjah 24 – WAM: In the presence and under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai organised the Desert Race, the third stage of the ninth Al Salam Cycling Championship. The event, held at the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve in Dubai, is renowned as the world’s largest community race in terms of diversity and prize value.

Intense competition and challenging routes

The race saw intense competition with participants showcasing remarkable skill and endurance as they navigated the difficult desert terrain. The event featured two unique routes: Sarouq Al-Hadid (52 km) and Al Ashoosh (57 km), with a timed sprint segment at Areeqib Brashi.

Flag-off and safety measures

Omair bin Jumaa Al Falasi, Director General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, flagged off the race in the presence of distinguished guests. Participants adhered to strict safety standards, wearing helmets, cycling glasses, and hydration packs while riding mountain bikes equipped with front and rear lights.

Winners of the race and team rankings

The race concluded with Shabab Al Ahli Cycling Club dominating the top three positions in the Al-Ashoush 57-km race, with Grega Bol claiming first place. In the team rankings, Shabab Al Ahli Cycling Club came first, followed by Airwerks Racing Team and the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) Dubai.

Results of the Sarouq Al Hadid 52-km Race

In the Sarouq Al-Hadid 52-km race, Essaid Abelouache from Sheikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi’s team secured first place, followed by Jaber Al Mansoori from Shabab Al Ahli Cycling Team in second. The top team ranking went to Shabab Al Ahli Cycling Club, followed by Sheikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi’s team and Dubai Police Cycling Team.

Dubai Endurance City Point Sprint Challenge Results

In the Dubai Endurance City Point Sprint Challenge, Ahmed Obaid Saif Al Marri from Sheikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi’s team secured first place in the UAE Nationals (18-39 years) category. Cornelis Vermeltfoort of Shabab Al Ahli Cycling Club claimed first place in the Residents (18-39 years) category, and Abdullah Saeed Al Hattawi from Dubai Police Cycling Team won the UAE Nationals (40+ years) category.

Recognition of participants and event impact

Omair bin Jumaa Al Falasi praised the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which has transformed the race into one of Dubai’s most distinguished sporting events. He also emphasised how the race showcases the stunning desert landscapes of Dubai’s Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, offering a unique challenge to cyclists while promoting the region’s natural beauty.

Looking ahead to the women's race

The championship will conclude with the Women’s Race on 16th February 2025, at the Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve, celebrating the accomplishments of female cyclists.