Safiya secures fourth straight UAE National Cycling Championship title

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Safiya Al Sayegh, the rising Emirati cycling star and UAE Team ADQ member, has secured her position as the UAE National Cycling Champion for the fourth consecutive year.

Her win in the 66 km race held in Nazwa, Sharjah, over the weekend reflects her dedication and exceptional talent and solidifies her status as a champion in women's cycling.

Zahra Hussein, member of the UAE Development Team came third and Marwa Salman, 17, member of the Emirati Talent Programme, developed by UAE Team ADQ, won in the Junior Category.

As Safiya continues to ascend to greater heights in her career, all eyes are now on her anticipated participation in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

Her qualification is based on her exceptional performance and time scores in international races, including the Tour of Chongming Island and the Tour of Guangxi.

At the Paris Olympics, Safiya will script history as the first Emirati woman to compete in the cycling competition at the Olympic Games.

Safiya, UAE Team ADQ rider, said: "I am truly grateful for this victory, which in large part is credited to the persistence and hard work that have always defined my career.

“My thanks go to my sponsors, my coach, Cristina San Emeterio, and especially UAE Team ADQ, for their unwavering support and guidance.

“Since I joined, we have consistently worked together to achieve results. This victory marks a personal milestone, but I am also proud to contribute to the collective progress of women's cycling in the UAE."

Melissa Moncada, President of UAE Team ADQ, said: "It's a privilege to witness Safiya's continued success, including securing her fourth UAE Road National Champion jersey and her historic qualification for the Paris Olympics, as the first Emirati woman to compete in the cycling event.

“Safiya embodies a spirit of resilience and passion for cycling, and she is carving a career that inspires us all. Safiya's achievements elevate women's cycling in the UAE and inspire future generations of athletes across the region, and as she prepares to represent the UAE on the global stage, we remain committed to providing her with the support and resources. "

Safiya's career exemplifies a relentless pursuit of excellence and the supportive ecosystem provided by UAE Team ADQ.

Since joining the team in 2021, Safiya has continuously raised the bar, showcasing her prowess on both local and international stages. Her recent win reflects the UAE's growing ecosystem for women's cycling.