Top Riders Set for Bahrain’s Premier Cycling Race
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
The stage is set for one of Bahrain’s premier cycling events, as the fifth edition of the Abdul Hakim Al Shammari Group Holding Cycling Race gears up for an exciting contest on February 8. Taking place along the newly inaugurated Nasser Bin Hamad Cycling Track near Al Jazayer Beach in Zallaq, the event will see top riders from over 20 nations compete across various categories.
Organized in collaboration with the Bahrain Cycling Association (BCA), the race has grown into a marquee event, attracting elite cyclists from across the GCC and beyond. The competition will feature nine categories, ensuring inclusivity for riders of all ages and abilities, from professional athletes to youth divisions and participants of determination.
A Race with a Growing Legacy
BCA president Dr. Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad bin Ahmed Al Khalifa highlighted the importance of the event, stating: “This event is one of the most important on our calendar. It has contributed to developing cycling in Bahrain, offering a highly competitive race and increasing the sport’s popularity.”
With categories structured to create a level playing field, organizers aim to encourage greater participation from amateur cyclists. The inclusion of a dedicated pro class, a Bahraini category, and separate divisions for amateurs ensures that all riders have a fair shot at competing for top honors.
International Prestige and Future Aspirations
The race continues to draw interest from top-level cyclists across the region, with riders from Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, and the UAE set to participate. Additionally, expatriate and international competitors from Britain, France, Italy, the Philippines, India, and Egypt will also take part, further elevating the competition’s prestige.
A Platform for Future Champions
Speaking exclusively to The Daily Tribune, key figures involved in the event emphasized the impact the race has had on Bahrain’s cycling community. Mountain bike race director Amir Nasrallah highlighted the introduction of distinct categories for professionals and amateurs, which has significantly boosted participation and competition at all levels.
Event chairman AbdulHakim AlShammari expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming race, noting the inclusion of over 200 cyclists from more than 13 countries. “We are pleased to host this prestigious event under the patronage of His Excellency Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa. This year, we have introduced a greater number of prizes across different levels, ensuring a highly competitive and rewarding experience for all participants.”
With support from various government entities, including the Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Health, the event is expected to draw large crowds, further cementing its status as one of Bahrain’s most anticipated sporting occasions.
Defending Champions and Ones to Watch
Among the riders to watch will be Bahrain national team cyclist Sayed Ahmed Khalil, who claimed victory in last year’s edition. He will face stiff competition from Qatar’s Mohsen Arhaili and Saudi Arabia’s Ahmed Abdulla, who finished second and third, respectively, in the previous race.
With a larger field and heightened international interest, the 2025 edition of the AbdulHakim AlShammari Group Holding Cycling Race is set to be a gripping show of speed, endurance, and elite competition. The first race is scheduled to begin at 7 AM on February 8, with cycling enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the action-packed showdown along Bahrain’s premier cycling track.
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