Abu Dhabi: The Yas Marina Circuit has announced that it will become the official training ground for the UAE Army’s cycling fitness initiatives starting on Tuesday.
The strategic partnership will see 200 camouflage branded bikes donated to Yas Marina Circuit by GHQ Armed Forces to be used for training by army personnel. The army’s training programme will be held during the circuit’s hugely popular weekly training nights, TrainYAS, that take place every Tuesday, and GoYAS on Wednesday for women.
Staff Brigadier Khalifa Rashid Al Hameli, from GHQ Armed Forces, said: “Fitness is of the upmost importance to any fighting force and this new initiative is an ideal way to encourage health and fitness among the UAE’s military. The move demonstrates our commitment to providing an accessible platform for fitness not only to the army but to the wider community and we look forward to establishing and building further on this important partnership”.
Yas Marina Circuit’s weekly community fitness programmes, GoYAS and TrainYAS, aimed at motivating people to live active, healthy lives, have attracted a weekly average attendance of 4,500 people that run, walk or cycle the iconic, 5.5km F1 circuit, a statement by Yas Marina Circuit said.
“The agreement with the armed forces to use our facilities as their official training venue complements the efforts of our existing health partners … in encouraging active and healthy lifestyles within Abu Dhabi,” said Al Tareq Al Ameri, CEO of Yas Marina Circuit.
“It also provides recognition of Yas Marina Circuit’s commitment to promoting health within the army and wider population. Engaging with residents and visitors to the UAE and promoting health and fitness is a hugely important part of what we offer,” he added
The launch of the programme will be held at TrainYAS on May 19. To kick-start the proceedings spectators will be treated to a band and paratroopers from the Armed Forces who will parachute into the circuit.
