The third edition of the Dubai Desert Triathlon, to be held on the 13th March, has generated significant excitement within the triathlon and endurance horse riding communities in the United Arab Emirates and the Middle East.
The Dubai Sports Council, in partnership with Meydan, developed this innovative event in April 2014, which combines the traditional Emirati heritage sport of endurance horse racing with the triathlon disciplines of running and cycling.
"We are very pleased with the response we have had from teams, triathletes and endurance riders so far. This is the third running of the Dubai Desert Triathlon and we see this as the new sport from the Middle East" said a spokesperson from Dubai Sports Council.
"This event showcases not only the strength of these sports in Dubai and the region, but also the creativity and innovation which has become Dubai’s international trademark" the spokesperson added.
The event, which will take place at the Dubai International Endurance City, DIEC, has attracted competitors from across the region and internationally. Competitors who are not registered horse riders can participate as teams and can be matched with a rider to complete their team.
The event will kick off at 6am with a 5km run, a 50km cycle and finishing with a 40km endurance horse ride in the Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC), which is approximately a 40 minute drive from Dubai next to Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and Spa.
Athletes will be competing for honours in the categories of fastest overall individual triathlete and fastest team.
DIEC will also be transformed into a triathlon village for the day, with activities and entertainment for families supporting the event. The village will be established close to the transition area so spectators can catch all the action as the individual triathletes and teams vie for the honour of winning the third Dubai Desert Triathlon.
Source: WAM