Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Attends Women’s Race At Al Salam Cycling Championship In Dubai

The Al Salam Cycling Championship's ninth edition concluded with the Women's Race at Al Marmoom Conservation Reserve. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, this event is recognised as the largest community cycling event globally for its diversity and prize value. Organised by the Private Office of His Highness, it featured two race categories on the same day.

The Women's Race was sponsored by Al Tayer Motors and took place in the UAE's largest natural reserve, Al Marmoom. This reserve is vital for wildlife conservation, housing Arabian oryx herds and numerous bird species. The Emirati female cyclists competed over a 107-km course, while the elite category covered 136 km. Participants included UAE residents and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Cycling Federation members.

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Omar bin Jumaa Al-Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office of His Highness, expressed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for supporting the championship. He emphasised that the event aims to inspire community engagement in sports, promoting health and happiness. The diverse races showcased Dubai’s landscapes and landmarks, reinforcing its status as a global sporting hub.

Al-Falasi praised the performances in the Women's Race, highlighting its role in empowering female athletes. He noted how cycling fosters individual strength and collective well-being, encouraging fitness culture within families and communities. The championship's commitment to inclusivity was evident through diverse participants from various backgrounds.

Sheikha Madiya Bint Hasher Al Maktoum led her MyWhoosh team to victory in both the Emirati Women’s Race category and the 40+ age category. Her teammates Ayesha Foolad and Mouza Al Ghafil secured second and third places respectively. In team rankings, MyWhoosh claimed first place, followed by Dubai Police Cycling team and Airwick Racing.

In the elite race, Nora Jencusova from Dubai Police Cycling – Positive Spirit team won first place. Cristina Tonetti from Dubai Police – Essad team came second, while Olha Shkel from Dubai Police Cycling team finished third. Hellen Bachofen von Echt from Boon Racing topped the 40+ age category.

Photography Competition

A photography competition was introduced during this edition of the championship in collaboration with The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Awards. Photographers were invited to capture striking moments from the Women’s Race until February 26. Prizes for each race were AED12,000 for first place, AED8,000 for second, and AED5,000 for third.

The ninth edition began in December with the Sword of Honour race celebrating His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's graduation from Sandhurst. It included events like Ruler’s Court Elite Men’s Cycling Race on January 19 covering a 193-km route showcasing Dubai’s landmarks.

The championship collaborated with strategic partners such as Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Sports Council, UAE Cycling Federation (General Referee), and Dubai Film Company to ensure successful execution of events throughout its stages.

With inputs from WAM