Monday, Dec 02, 2013
Abu Dhabi: The air was rich with jubilation as scores of cyclists rode into Abu Dhabi’s Breakwater Area, beaming at the onlookers and waving UAE flags. After a challenging 150 kilometres, they had finally reached the Abu Dhabi Corniche flag post, and completed the UAE’s first Flag to Flag marathon.
“My National Day celebrations have been extremely special this year, riding from one historic flag to another. I love my country, and am honoured to be part of such a patriotic experience,” said Saqer Ali Thani, 29, an Emirati aircraft engineer at the finish line.
“To me, my journey today has been an achievement. And as soon as I get back to my family in Dubai, we will get together and celebrate the accomplishments of our beloved country,” he added.
With five stops along the way, the cyclists rode into the capital at about 2.30pm and assembled near the Corniche flag, which boasts one of the world’s tallest flagpoles.
Upon their arrival, dozens of family members and friends who had been waiting since the morning rushed forward to greet the cyclists. Medals and certificates were distributed before the participants settled down to an outdoor picnic lunch.
“We started off from Dubai with about 870 cyclists. The weather was rough, especially because of the wind along certain sections of the road, and it was difficult to keep everyone together. But we are delighted that 95 per cent of the participants made it all the way on their bikes,” said Stewart Howison, event director.
The marathon also included about five cyclists from the Al Ain Club for the Disabled, who proved to be a source of inspiration for the other cyclists.
“Whenever I felt that the going was tough, I reminded myself of those who had it even harder than me and simply kept moving. The effort of the Al Ain Club participants is truly noteworthy,” said David Wilson, a 57-year-old schools director from the United Kingdom and marathon participant. He added that the marathon had been organised at the perfect time and occasion.
“On the heels of the Dubai Expo 2020 win and into National Day, the energy was really infectious. And being part of such an event reminds one of how the UAE is such a melting pot for so many different nationalities. I myself have spoken to people of at least 12 different countries just today,” he said.
While a number of amateur cyclists participated in the event, many professional cyclists also travelled to Dubai to join the marathon.
“I love biking. And driving down Shaikh Zayed Road in Dubai, I have always thought that it would be a real pleasure to cycle on the road. So when I heard of the marathon, I drove down from Abu Dhabi to be a part of it,” said Erica Dolland, a 33-year-old American teacher and Abu Dhabi resident.
By Samiha Zaman Staff Reporter
Gulf News 2013. All rights reserved.
