The fourth edition of the 'Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo' cycling race attracted over 1,000 cyclists who completed the 150-kilometer course and competed for prizes totaling two million dirhams. This event is one of the most prominent sporting occasions in the United Arab Emirates, bringing together amateurs and professionals. The race started from Hazza bin Zayed Stadium in the city of Al Ain and concluded at the Sheikh Zayed Festival in Al Wathba, which hosts various activities showcasing the rich Emirati heritage. The race kicked off at 7:00 AM with participants from 68 nationalities. In the men's general category, Ukrainian Serhiy Sidor from team Al Wathba was crowned champion after completing the 150-kilometer distance in 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 30 seconds. He was followed by Dutchman Cornelis Vermeltfoort in second place, just one second behind, and Russian Anton Popov in third. In the women's category, Dutch Nina Kessler claimed the title with a time of 2 hours, 57 minutes, and 37 seconds, followed by Slovak Nóra Jankušová in second and Dutch Yoan Vandamme in third. Among male Emiratis, Abdullah Al Hammadi won, while M Salman was victorious in the female Emirati category. In the team competitions, Dubai Police won the men's category, followed by Al Ahli Dubai Youth and Abu Dhabi Cycling Club. Dubai Police also won the women's team category, with Dubai Residency and Astrom Falcon taking silver and bronze, respectively. General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Arif Al Awani, stated that for the fourth time, the 'Bike Abu Dhabi Gran Fondo' has achieved great success with wide participation from 68 nationalities, reflecting the commitment to supporting the community and developing cycling in the UAE and the region. He confirmed that the race is a key driver for Abu Dhabi's ambition to become a leading global destination for cycling, combining competitive and amateur participation.
