Abu Dhabi: 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 Women’s Race – the fourth stage of the Al Salam Cycling Championship – took place today at Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. The event marked the grand finale of the ninth edition of the Al Salam Cycling Championship.
According to Emirates News Agency, the championship, organized by the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, is recognized as the world’s largest community cycling event in terms of diversity and prize value. The Supreme Organising Committee, led by Omar bin Jumaa Al-Falasi, conducted the Women’s Race, which featured two categories.
Both races commenced from the same point in Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve with a set time gap. The first race, covering a 107-km course, was for Emirati female cyclists, while the elite category race took place over a 136-km course, featuring participants from the UAE and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Cycling Federation.
Sponsored by Al Tayer Motors, the Women’s Race unfolded amidst the captivating backdrop of Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. The reserve plays a role in wildlife conservation, providing habitats for Arabian oryx and diverse bird populations. It spans 40 hectares of land and is home to over 204 species of local birds and 158 species of migratory birds, interspersed by lakes and scenic landscapes.
Omar bin Jumaa Al-Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, attended the race and expressed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his support in making the ninth edition a success. He emphasized the event’s vision to inspire community sports engagement, promoting health and vitality.
Al-Falasi highlighted the championship’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity, bringing together cyclists from various backgrounds. The race routes offered tests of endurance and showcased Dubai’s landscapes and landmarks, reinforcing its status as a global sporting hub.
He commended the performances in the Women’s Race, underscoring its role in empowering female athletes and promoting fitness culture. The winners in the Emirati Women’s Race category included Sheikha Madiya Bint Hasher Al Maktoum, with her MyWhoosh teammates Ayesha Foolad and Mouza Al Ghafil finishing second and third.
In the team rankings, MyWhoosh claimed first place, Dubai Police Cycling team secured second, and Airwick Racing finished third. Sheikha Madiya also topped the 40+ age category.
In the elite race, Nora Jencusova from Dubai Police Cycling – Positive Spirit team took first place, followed by Cristina Tonetti and Olha Shkel. Dubai Police – Positive Spirit secured first place in team rankings.
The Supreme Organising Committee announced a photography competition in collaboration with The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Awards. Submissions are open until February 26.
The ninth edition of the championship began in December with the Sword of Honour race and included the Ruler’s Court Elite Men’s Cycling Race and the Desert Race. The event is organized with strategic partners, including Dubai Police and Dubai Sports Council.