Latest news with #ChallengeFamily
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
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.
Al Etihad
02-04-2025
- Sport
- Al Etihad
'No other race like Challenge Sir Bani Yas': Spanish athlete all praise for Abu Dhabi's game-changing island triathlon
2 Apr 2025 23:11 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)The first Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon kicks off today in Abu Dhabi under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler's Representative in Al Dhafra Region. Among those who flew in for the landmark competition was Spanish pro triathlete Sara Perez Sala, who is currently ranked 50th in the world and 2nd in her has been looking forward to the challenge right from the day it was announced. "When I saw the announcement of the race along with the experience that was going to be racing on an island that is a kind of safari - it caught my attention because it seems to me that it is something unique!" she told Aletihad."In addition to this, Abu Dhabi is a place I really like to train and I thought it was a good idea to start the season here."Running until April 7, the Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon is the first long-distance race hosted in the Middle East and North Africa region. The event is set to occur annually through ADNEC Group, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and in partnership with the Challenge Family triathlon series, which hosts 35 races in 27 countries, with the participation of more than 75,000 arrived in Abu Dhabi three weeks ahead to train for the tough race conditions, hoping the extra preparation would help her mentally. She is expecting the heat and her condition, ulcerative colitis, to make it difficult to get proper nourishment and hydration during the race."On a mental level, I think the first competition of the year always creates some uncertainty. Even so, I am looking forward to getting to Sir Bani Yas Island and enjoying what will be a unique competition," Sala said."I think the fact that it is a different race makes us more motivated and alert when competing."The triathlon includes long-distance and middle-distance swimming, cycling, and running events, as well as popular sports and tourism events for all participants. It is expected to welcome a huge audience of 2,800 participants, with over 1500 visitors coming from local and international praised the event's organiser, highlighting that it provides all necessary information and handles every detail."As I said, Abu Dhabi is a great place for triathlon training and training camps. I like it a lot. And as for the race, I have not yet been able to see where it is, but I think that being able to compete in a kind of safari is going to be spectacular, and no other race has that," she Thoughts, Motivation Bracing for the tough competition ahead, Sala shared a strategy to fuel her stamina."In my case, my race will last just over 4 hours, but if I had to last 17 hours in these extreme conditions I think I would have to have a list of positive thoughts and motivation to keep going for every kilometre when the going gets tough," she said. Besides optimism, the triathlete also stressed the importance of nutrition and hydration."Nutrition and hydration on the day of the competition are essential. People who are able to hydrate and eat properly and assimilate a large amount of carbohydrates have a huge advantage over people who cannot," she said. The support of spectators and her fellow athletes would also mean a lot, Sala added. "My advice would be to enjoy every kilometre of the event. The conditions will be tough, but you will be competing in a unique environment, enjoy it and think about the finish line that awaits you when your strength is flagging. The feeling of crossing the finish line of your first half or full distance is something unique and something you will never forget, so enjoy the whole race," she is optimistic that the Abu Dhabi event would be a huge hit. The Challenge Sir Bani Yas would promote and inspire more people to engage, while providing opportunity for more athletes to participate in triathlon, she said. "I think it will be a success because it is being organised with love, the venue will be unique and spectacular and I think there is a long list of professionals signed up, which indicates that it is an exciting race for us," Sala said.
Arab News
27-01-2025
- Sport
- Arab News
Elite field set for inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon
ABU DHABI: Sam Laidlow, Sara Perez Sala, Henri Schoeman and Milan Agnew will be among a strong field competing in the inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon this April, the Middle East's first long-distance event of its kind. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport Held under the patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the ruler's representative in the Al-Dhafra region, the contest is the latest addition to the Challenge Family triathlon series. Over 3,000 athletes are expected to take part in the event from April 3 to 7. Throughout the year, challenge events of varying distances and locations take place across the globe, including New Zealand, Brazil, Turkiye, Italy and Taiwan. And now with the Challenge Sir Bani Yas added to the roster — and becoming one of only four locations to host the event — participants and spectators can expect to rub shoulders with some of the world's best triathletes. French professional Laidlow, the youngest-ever Ironman World Champion, has chalked his name on the start line. After having an injury-ending season in 2024, the world No. 9 will be looking to make an impact to kickstart his year. He will be joined by, among others, South African Olympic medalist Schoeman, who will no doubt feel confident after a solid 2024 season. 'I am excited to race Sir Bani Yas Challenge this year, it's not often a completely new race comes along in what looks to be an amazing location,' said Laidlow. 'There's always something special about being part of an inaugural event, and I'm determined to take the top step.' Looking to channel her 2022 victory at the series' flagship race, The Championship, will be Spain's Perez Sala. The former Olympic swimmer, who has been competing since the age of 6, will not be the only athlete to embrace the cooler Sir Bani Yas Island climate this April. Young up-and-coming Australian, Agnew, who took the top spot in the Challenge Turku last year, as well as third at Challenge Cagnes-sur-Mer, also makes her way to Abu Dhabi this April. Britons Lottie Lucas and Max Stapley, who both call the UAE home, will be among the local athletes taking part. 'I am really looking forward to racing at the inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas, which promises to be an exciting weekend for the triathlon community based in the UAE and beyond,' Lucas said. 'The entire weekend experience looks fantastic, and there will be plenty of time to put your feet up, relax and enjoy all the off-track fun.' The event features both long- and middle-distance racing, with registration still open. The long-distance event features a 3.8 km swim, 180 km cycle and 42.2 km run. Additionally, a middle-distance triathlon is offered, featuring a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycle and 21.1 km run. The event includes various community, sports and tourism activities.
