Dubai: The American ambassador to the UAE has hailed the Dubai Tour 2014 as an “excellent tool in bridging cultures” in a multi-cultural society such as the UAE.
Speaking exclusively to Gulf News on the sidelines of Dubai Tour, Michael H. Corbin said: “Arts, culture and sport are three instruments that bring people together and by organising such a top-class cycle race the people of the UAE have come even closer.”
Corbin is a huge cycling fan who makes it a point to put in between 100 to 120 kilometres per week. Sometimes it is at the Yas Marina Circuit on Thursday evening or at the brand-new Al Wathba Cycle track in Abu Dhabi on Friday.
“It is extremely important for governments to host sporting events of this stature,” Corbin said. “It can be a wonderful opportunity for peoples of different countries and cultures to come together on a common platform.”
Corbin’s joy was doubled after seeing US pro team BMC Racing Team do so well, with Taylor Phinney keeping the overall leader’s blue jersey after three stages.
“Besides, cycling is a popular way in keeping healthy, so events like these can only reach out to more people and affect communities in a positive manner,” Corbin said.
