Dubai: Dubai’s newest sporting event, the Dubai Desert Triathlon, will have more than 120 teams for the inaugural event, organisers announced on Thursday.
The Dubai Sports Council has partnered with Meydan Racecourse to develop an innovative event which combines the traditional heritage Emirati sport of endurance horse racing with the triathlon disciplines of running and cycling.
Organisers say they are delighted with the response received, not only locally, but also internationally, with registrations far exceeding expectations.
“We are very pleased with the response we have had from the triathletes and endurance riders. It is clear that they are excited and enthusiastic to be part of something which may well be a world first,” said Nasser Al Rahmah, Director of Sports Events Department at Dubai Sports Council.
“This event showcases not only the strength of these sports in Dubai and the region, but also the creativity and innovation which has become Dubai’s international trademark,” he added.
The event, which will take place on Saturday, April 19, at the Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC), has attracted competitors from across the region and internationally, with several entrants aiming to complete the full triathlon, as they are registered endurance riders as well as cyclists and runners. Competitors who are not registered riders can participate as either runners or cyclists — or both — and have been matched with a rider to complete their team.
The event will kick off at 6am with an endurance horse ride of a 40km loop, followed by a 25km cycling stage on the Dubai Cycle Path, then a 5km desert run through the spectacular desert and finishing in the Dubai International Endurance City. Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC) is located 40 minutes drive from Dubai next to Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa.
Athletes will be competing for honours in the categories of fastest overall individual triathlete, fastest team, fastest cyclist, fastest runner and best conditioned horse in the male, female and junior sections.
DIEC will also be transformed into a triathlon village for the day, with activities for children, including a circus workshop, face-painting and balloon art, and entertainment for all the family on the lawns by jugglers, stilt walkers, acrobats and unicyclists. A delicious Bab Al Shams breakfast buffet will also be available for only Dh50 in the elegant Dubai International Endurance City centre. The village will be established close to the transition and finish area so spectators will catch all the action and watch triathlon history in the making as the individual triathletes and teams vie for the honour of winning the inaugural event.
The Dubai Desert Triathlon is held under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Sports Council.
For any enquiries regarding the event call Promoseven Sports Marketing on +971 4 321 0008, or go the Facebook page Dubai Desert Triathlon.
