Latest news with #ChallengeSirBaniYas
Al Etihad
07-04-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
Inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon concludes in Abu Dhabi
7 Apr 2025 18:00 ABU DHABI (WAM)Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region, the first Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon concluded in Abu Dhabi on Monday. The first-ever full-distance triathlon to take place in the Middle East and North Africa region ran from 3-7 April by the ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), Challenge Sir Bani Yas reinforces Abu Dhabi's and Al Dhafra's rising profile as premier sports tourism destinations, while also fostering greater community line with the UAE's 'Year of Community' initiative, the event brought together more than 3,100 elite and amateur athletes from 47 countries, competing across long, middle, and Olympic-distance triathlons, alongside a variety of community-focused races, which attracted 6,515 full-distance triathlon featured a 3.8 km swim, 180 km cycle, and a 42.2 km run. The middle-distance race included a 1.9 km swim, 96 km cycle, and 21.1 km run, while the Olympic-distance event consisted of a 1.5 km swim, 45 km cycle, and 10 km run. Organisers say the next edition will be held from January 29 to February 1.
Al Etihad
06-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Plans on to make Challenge Sir Bani Yas a flagship global triathlon event
6 Apr 2025 23:56 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)With the success of the first Challenge Sir Bani Yas in Abu Dhabi, plans are on to make it a flagship global triathlon event, officials from the organising team told Aletihad. Held on April 5-6 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region, Challenge Sir Bani Yas contributes towards Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a global sports hub, said Ahmad Shaker, Chief Executive Officer of Capital 360 Event Experiences, part of ADNEC Group, which is a co-organiser of the editions of the challenge could include additional race categories, community programmes, and robust partnerships across the UAE, creating a legacy that will promote wellness, tourism, and global visibility for the region, Shaker Al Obaidli, COO of ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, said the distinctive triathlon on the island "shines a spotlight on the Al Dhafra region, driving visitation, encouraging longer stays, and supporting local businesses"."With athletes, spectators, media, and support teams travelling to the area, the event stimulates demand for several industries such as hotels, F&B, logistics, and leisure experiences. We have seen a surge in hotel occupancy thanks to this event that will contribute to the local economy," Al Obaidli said. "More importantly, it positions Al Dhafra as a destination for adventure and eco-tourism, opening new opportunities for sustainable economic growth," he added. Sir Bani Yas Island had been chosen for the first long-distance triathlon in the Middle East because of its "unmatched setting", Shaker said. "With its pristine nature reserves, rugged terrain, and open waters, it provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop that challenges athletes while showcasing the UAE's natural beauty and commitment to sustainability," he added. Hosting a full-distance race under the Challenge Family brand solidifies the emirate's reputation in several aspects, from sport tourism to organising world-class events. "At ADNEC Group, we are committed to delivering world-class sporting experiences that reflect the UAE's vision for active, healthy communities and dynamic tourism offerings. Bringing a full-distance triathlon to the MENA region was a natural next step in expanding our sports portfolio," Shaker measures were taken to ensure race days were smooth. "ADNEC Group's Operations and Events teams, in collaboration with local and international partners, have implemented a comprehensive event management plan that prioritises athlete safety, smooth logistics, and exceptional hospitality. From transportation and accommodation coordination and on-course support, every detail has been considered," Shaker said. Al Obaidli said the Challenge Family had worked towards enhancing the event's global reputation and credibility. The gathering of elite athletes, media, and international spectators had bolstered the prestige of the UAE residents also stand to benefit from it being a qualifier for the 2025 World Championships to be held in Australia. "From the outset, ADNEC Group has prioritised community engagement. We have launched dedicated campaigns to encourage participation from Emirati athletes and regional triathlon clubs, and we have worked closely with local vendors to integrate their services into the event. A vibrant Race Village, cultural activations, and family-friendly activities ensured the event offered something for everyone-whether racing, supporting, or simply experiencing the island."
Al Etihad
06-04-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
ADNEC, ADSC welcome 47 countries to take part in inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas triathlon
6 Apr 2025 09:55 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)ADNEC Group, part of Modon Holding, welcomes participants to take part in the inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas, a landmark regional sporting event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), the event takes place until April 6. It is the first of its kind in the region, welcoming male and female athletes from 47 countries to compete amid the island's natural surroundings, combining sports competitions with unique family Hamad Al Awani, Secretary-General of ADSC, said: 'Our collaboration with ADNEC Group in organising the Sir Bani Yas Challenge reaffirms Abu Dhabi's position as one of the world's leading destinations for major sporting and adventure events."He added, 'Abu Dhabi remains committed to promoting sport as a way of life. This event serves as an ideal platform to encourage the community to engage in physical activity, whether through the competitions or the family-friendly activities held alongside the races.'Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: 'Organising the Sir Bani Yas Challenge aligns with our Group's commitment to supporting and advancing our exceptional sports sector while attracting major international events to Abu Dhaheri added: 'Thanks to Abu Dhabi's world-class infrastructure and advanced facilities, the emirate continues to attract leading athletes from worldwide, offering them a glimpse of its unique sports and tourism appeal. Challenge Sir Bani Yas is not just a race – it is an opportunity to explore the island's rich environmental and cultural diversity.'Notably, Challenge Sir Bani Yas offers a range of races designed to suit all levels, from professional athletes to amateurs and families. These include the long-distance race: a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle, and 42.2km run, which serves as a world-class challenge for triathlon champions. There is also the middle-distance race: 1.9km swim, 96km cycle, and 21.1km run, and the Olympic-distance race: 1.5km swim, 45km cycle, and 10km run, which provides UAE-based participants with the opportunity to qualify for the 2025 World Championships in addition, community races will include beach challenges, mangrove trail runs, and kayaking, ensuring participation across all age groups. Visitors can also enjoy a wide array of leisure activities, such as desert safaris to discover more than 17,000 animals, water sports, guided exploration tours on foot, horseback, or mountain biking, and archaeological tours showcasing the island's rich history. The organisers of Challenge Sir Bani Yas will provide regular ferry services from Abu Dhabi's mainland to Sir Bani Yas Island, along with a range of accommodation options including luxury hotels and eco-friendly campsites. Tickets are still available for competitors wishing to take on the challenge, as well as for visitors keen to enjoy the entertainment and accompanying events. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Al Etihad
04-04-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
47 countries converge for Challenge Sir Bani Yas starting tomorrow
4 Apr 2025 23:30 ABU DHABI (WAM)Challenge Sir Bani Yas, the UAE's ultimate destination triathlon on the spectacular Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, is set to launch on Saturday in its first edition under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler's Representative in the Al Dhafra Region. It is the first long-distance triathlon of its kind in the Middle competition will feature both professional and amateur athletes representing 47 countries. It is organised by the ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and in strategic partnership with the Challenge Family event will run until next Sunday, featuring multiple races—from professionals to families and amateurs. Races include the long-distance triathlon (3.8 km swim, 180 km cycling, and 42.2 km running), and the middle-distance triathlon (1.9 km swim, 96 km cycling, and 21.1 km running). The Olympic-distance race (1.5 km swim, 45 km cycling, and 10 km running) offers an ideal challenge for beginners. Community races will include beach challenges, running, mangrove stand-up paddling, and kayaking—ensuring participation across all age groups, along with several other community races for various ages.
Khaleej Times
04-04-2025
- Sport
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Over 3,000 athletes to participate in weekend triathlon at Sir Bani Yas Island
More than 3,000 athletes are making their way to Sir Bani Yas Island's remote wildlife sanctuary this weekend to take part in the region's most spectacular triathlon weekend, the Challenge Sir Bani Yas. From seasoned professionals to first-time triathletes, participants are competing across multiple distances over the course of two action-packed days. The main race day, Saturday, April 5, will feature the full distance (3.8km swim, 180km cycle, 42.2km run) beginning at 7am, while the half-distance race kicks off at 7.15am, followed by Olympic and sprint distances later in the afternoon. The island — known for its rugged trails, turquoise waters, and freely roaming wildlife including gazelles and oryxes — is expected to offer a unique racing experience. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Australian pro triathlete Milan Agnew, racing in the 70.3 distance, said the iconic setting was what drew her to open her 2025 season in the UAE. 'I heard about this amazing race and venue and thought it would be a great way to start my 2025 season,' Agnew told Khaleej Times on Friday. 'This is my first time on Sir Bani Yas Island... I have no doubt I'll see a lot of wildlife during the race!' Though the April heat looms large, the Queensland-based athlete is used to tough conditions. 'I live in QLD, Australia, which seems to be one of the hardest places I've had to train in when it comes to heat,' she said. 'With the longer bike course, I will factor in taking more gels, but I haven't done specific heat prep as I've just been at home.' Agnew said she expects to complete the race in about four hours and 20 minutes but cautioned that the heat might slow her down. 'I think the run will be the toughest as it'll be the hottest part of the day, and we would have already been racing for over 3 hours.' Joining her on the island are many Abu Dhabi based athletes, including Yasser Rajab, a 49-year-old Jordanian senior accountant who will be attempting his first full-distance triathlon tomorrow. 'It feels five degrees cooler here than in Abu Dhabi city,' he said after offboarding the ferry the island on Friday early afternoon. 'I'm looking forward to enjoying the wildlife and sea views while racing.' He said he expects to finish the race in around 12 hours, with the swim in the cool morning water being the highlight. 'Even though the distance is much more than anything I've done before and I am not 100 per cent trained for it, I will rely on experience and nutrition. He has completed over 30 triathlons since 2015. 'I am just praying for a cloudy day tomorrow, so the sun won't be as strong!' His friend and training partner, Abdulwahab Al Mgharbel, seemed equally optimistic. 'Everything will be fun – from swimming, cycling to running,' said the 42-year-old Syrian engineer, who is taking on the half-distance race, noting that he was especially looking forward to racing through the 'clean beach, virgin sea, and eco-friendly nature' of Sir Bani Yas. Firas Al Shishakli, 40, only entered the world of triathlons last November. As he prepares for Ironman 70.3 Bahrain later this year, he's using the Sir Bani Yas Challenge as a training milestone. 'I thought it would be a good chance to do the Olympic distance in an interesting location,' said the Syrian-Russian Master Mariner. While skeptical about spotting wildlife mid-race, 'to be honest, I don't expect to see any oryxes or wild animals while racing,' he said he's looking forward to exploring the island and racing alongside friends. For Mariana Lemos, a 36-year-old Portuguese personal trainer, Saturday's race will be her first Olympic distance triathlon as well. 'I started doing triathlons last November and scored third in my age group from my very first race,' she said proudly. 'I haven't been to the island before, and I am super excited for it... for sure I expect to encounter a lot of wild animals during the bike course,' she added. Lemos will start her race at 3.30pm and expects to cross the finish line by 6pm, a strong debut timing for a first-timer. 'My weakness is the swimming part, but I believe tomorrow the toughest part will be the run — I will want to finish strong and push in the running pace.'
