Change of Finish Line Adds Extra Dune and 1.5km to Tough Race
Doha, Qatar
Ooredoo today announced it is to again be Gold Sponsor for the upcoming Al Adaid Desert Challenge, set to take place on Friday, 28 February 2020 in Khor Al Adaid, a UNESCO-recognised nature reserve in the south-east of Qatar.
The annual outdoor one-day challenge – which boasts a reputation for being the toughest off-road mountain bike race in the region – incorporates a 42km mountain bike race and a 30km run, both through soaring sand dunes to reach the finish line. Riders will take on eight soaring sand dunes, with runners crossing five. This year’s event will also include an exciting ‘mtb + run’ event for those who want to challenge themselves in both disciplines.
The 2020 race will start from the same point as previous years – next to the Mawater Sand Dune, opposite the Sealine Beach Resort – but will finish at the brand-new Al Majles resort, meaning one extra sand dune for competitors to cross. The finish line will feature a specially set up finish line camp, where there will be an area for participants to rest and relax after the the race and also a non-competitive kids race so everyone can be involved. Ooredoo will also have a booth there, showcasing its products and services.
The UCI MTB Class-3 event is organised by Qatar Cyclists in association with the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) and is supported by the Qatar Cycling Federation (QCF), and forms part of the International Cycling Union calendar.
Speaking about the event, Moza Khalid Al-Muhannadi, Director of CSR, Sponsorship, and Media, Ooredoo Qatar, said: “We’re delighted to be sponsoring the 2020 edition of the Al Adaid Desert Challenge, a challenging sporting event known for its tough conditions. Supporting events such as these, which encourage a healthy, active lifestyle, is a key part of our corporate social responsibility strategy. We look forward to an exciting race and some impressive performances from all the participants.”