Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge under way with Build-Up rides

The sixth Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge launched with the first of four Build-Up rides on Friday morning.

Over 540 cyclists took part in the ride in preparation for the 92km cycle challenge on  December 11.

The early bird cyclists began their training by covering over 35km at the Nad Al Sheba cycle track.

More than 2,500 riders are expected to take part in the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge from all over the world.

“Today’s turnout is proof of the growing enthusiasm for the sport and we are confident that this will continue as training builds for the big event in December,” a spokesperson for the organisers said.

The organisers of the race have created the perfect platform which caters for all levels of cycling experience.

The increase in distance of each Build-Up ride gives participants plenty of time to prepare for the main event and at the same time promotes safe cycling in Dubai. 

Juniors also have the opportunity to be involved in the cycling weekend with a dedicated 15km and 30km Junior Rides on Thursday December 10.

"Today’s event was a huge success with riders from all levels of fitness and experience participating. We are truly excited about the cycle season ahead of us, our aim is to give all cyclists from across the country and region an opportunity to practice and take up the sport in a fun and safe manner and thanks must go to the RTA, Police and the Dubai Sports Council,” added the official. 

Colette Shannon, Communications Manager, Spinneys Dubai LLC said: “We encourage all our customers to get involved in one of the biggest cycling events in the Middle East. Today is just the start of what’s to come over the next few months and we urge all riders, whether a beginner or experienced, to get involved in the event.”

Rolf Arndt who took up the sport last year said: “This is the first time I am participating in all four Build-Up rides and I am really happy with how the event has gone this morning. Every time I get on a bike I learn something new and events like these are great for beginners as well as the more experienced riders. I am looking forward to the big 92km Challenge in December and I hope to beat my average.”
 
David Worrall, an experienced cyclist, said: “I took up cycling three years ago as I wanted to take up triathlons and improve my fitness. Cycling has become a real trend in Dubai and with so many of my friends starting to take up the sport it’s now a great social activity. I have done the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge for the last couple of years and it’s always great fun, the Build-Up rides are a great structured way of getting into your biking for the season and it encourages you to do more kilometers.”
 
Another participant Sarah Nicholas said: “This is the first time I have taken part in the Build-Up Rides and it’s given me a real confidence boost not only for my cycling but also for my quest to take part in triathlons and improve my general fitness.”

The second 45km Build-Up ride will be held on October 2 also at Nad Al Sheba.

Build-Up rides three and four will both be held at the Dubai Cycling Course, with the third ride on October 30 covering 65km and the fourth on November 27 on a 85km course. 

To register or find out more information on any of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge events visit www.cyclechallenge.ae