Dubai: The UAE could become a regional hub for cycling, according to Irish former professional cyclist Sean Kelly, who is competing in Friday’s Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge.
After this week’s unveiling of the inaugural Dubai Tour from February 5 to 8 next year, and following on from the already existing races in Qatar and Oman, cycling is enjoying unprecedented growth in the region, with cycle tracks being built locally in Nad Al Sheba and Al Qudra.
“Organising more events here will only highlight cycling and attract more people into the sport,” Kelly told Gulf News. “People are more conscious about staying fit and, contrary to Europe at this time of year, the weather is suitable.
“If you look at Oman and Qatar, they started tours about five years ago and Qatar has become a powerful race for all the big European teams. I see no reason why Dubai cannot be the same. In two or three years’ time, the tour will come up in standard and become one of the most important events with all the big names coming here.”
More than 2,000 people are expected to take part in the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge on Friday. The 92-km endurance event starts and ends at Nad Al Sheba and takes in the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Beach Road, Al Wasl Road, Hessa Street, Meydan and Al Khail Road. Adults participating in the event will set off from 6am, but there are also categories for under-10s and under-16s starting at 10am.
