Abu Dhabi: Former road world champion Mark Cavendish (Dimension Data) won the 190km inaugural Abu Dhabi — Al Ain Classic, yesterday.
The event saw 120 professional and amateur riders take to the gruelling course that began from ADNOC HQ in the capital and finished at the Al Jahili Park in the garden city of Al Ain.
“It was an incredible day of cycling which was made even sweeter by the win. It was great to compete with such an accomplished group of riders, both professional and amateur. I always love cycling in Abu Dhabi and I can’t wait for the tour next year,” said a jubilant Cavendish after the triumph.
UAE’s Yousif Mirza, who was donning No. 46 to mark UAE’s 46th National Day, finished a close second.
“I felt honoured to have 46 as my race number and represent UAE Team Emirates on National Day weekend. To ride in a professional event like this on home soil was a real treat and it was very encouraging to see such a buzz around my sport in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain,” said a beaming Mirza.
Roisin Thomas of Ireland was the top finishing female rider coming in at 28th followed by Natasha Leask of New Zealand, who crossed the line in 35th position.
Inspired by the iconic races of Europe, the event was hosted by Abu Dhabi Cycling Club, in partnership with Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Etisalat, Daman & ADNOC all supported the race with platinum partnerships.
The star-studded peloton was flagged off by Commander in Chief of Abu Dhabi Police Major General Mohammad Khalfan Al Romaithi, Dr. Mugheer Al Khail Chairman of Abu Dhabi Cycling Club, Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and Sultan Al Dhaheri, General Manager of Etisalat Abu Dhabi.
“We are absolutely delighted with the success of the Abu Dhabi — Al Ain Classic. This event was the first of its kind to take place in the UAE. 2017 has created a good foundation.
“The quality of both professional and amateur entries was extremely high, and we intend to build on this to become one of the UAE’s great races. The Classic and the Family Cycling Festival was a great way for Abu Dhabi Cycling Club to be part of the UAE’s 46th National Day celebrations. We hope that everyone who took part had an enjoyable day and hopefully it has encouraged new cyclists to try our fantastic sport,” said Al Khaili, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Cycling Club.
To help encourage more people to get into cycling, the Daman Activelife Family Festival also took place in the finish area of the race in Al Jahili Park. Attended by hundreds of people of all ages and abilities, it provided the perfect fun and healthy day out on National Day Weekend.
