Doha: Qatar’s Belgian community, and expat riders from around the globe took part in a celebration of cycling featuring a fun ride at the Pearl yesterday.
The 14.4km fun ride around the Pearl in Doha, was jointly hosted by the UCI Road Cycling World Championship – Doha 2016 and the Belgium Embassy, Belgian residents and other internationals.
The group was led by a pace car and the traffic department provided an escort, in a simulation of a real world championship event which started at 7.00am.
Riders of all ages took part in the fun ride, in what could be described as a small microcosm of the main event, which will be held in Doha in October of this year.
Sheikh Khaled Bin Ali Al Thani, Chairmain of the UCI Road Cycling World Championship – Doha 2016 Organising Committee spearheaded the social fun ride together with Christophe Payot, the Belgium ambassador to Qatar.
At the start of the event, Sheikh Khaled Bin Ali Al Thani said, “Cycling is rising fast as a popular sport in Qatar, and today’s participation by the Belgians and other international cycling enthusiasts demonstrates that cycling is for everyone. As we build up to the Championship taking place this October, we are committed to getting Qatar residents out on a bike, for better fitness and to take in the beautiful sites of Qatar.”
“The Pearl in Qatar is a wonderful venue for cycling, with picturesque views of the Arabian Sea, hugged by luxurious surroundings that represent the present and future of Qatar. We give special thanks for the role they are playing today and in this year’s Championship in October,” he added.
The Belgian Ambassador said: “Belgians from all around Qatar have come here today to support the sport of Cycling. Back home, cycling is an important sport and a way of life among our citizens. It is with pleasure that we were able to share our passion for the sport with the Qatar community. We look forward to seeing the sport become more prominent here.”
Members of the Championship’s Organising Committee, Belgium Embassy staff, and UDC employees all contributed towards the success of the event.
The Peninsula
