Al Salam Cycling Championship makes perfect start with Sword of Honour race

Under the patronage and presence of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, the ‘Sword of Honour’ race for Emirati amateur cyclists marked the start of the 9th edition of the Al Salam Cycling Championship on Sunday.

Organized by the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai, this championship is the largest community-based cycling race globally in terms of diversity and financial prizes, offering Dhs3.5 million.

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who graduated from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK this month, officially signaled the start of the race.

He was accompanied by Omair Bin Jumaa Al Falasi, Director-General of the Private Office of His Highness the Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Supreme Organizing Committee of the Championship, along with other committee members.

Sheikh Mohammed also visited the Championship Village, inspecting the preparations undertaken by the organizing committee for the 143 km race in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. The course featured new routes, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Dubai.

The race carried an air of celebration, earning the title ‘Sword of Honour’ in honor of Sheikh Mohammed’s recent graduation from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, where he received the ‘Sword of Honour’ for International Cadets and secured first place in academic and applied military studies — becoming the first Emirati graduate to achieve both accolades simultaneously.

In terms of results, Sheikh Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi’s team dominated both the individual and team categories.

Cyclist Abdulaziz Salah claimed the individual title, followed by team-mate Rashed Mohammed Al Baloushi in second place, and Hilal Al Harbi securing third.

These outstanding performances earned Sheikh Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi’s team first place in the team category, with Dubai Police Team finishing second, and Sheikh Ahmed Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi ‘B’ Team taking third.

In other results, Tariq Al Baloushi from Team Yasi won the above-40 category, while Saud Al Zaabi secured victory in the sprint category during the mid-course speed segment.

A total of 152 cyclists participated, competing individually or representing teams such as Sheikh Ahmed bin Humaid Al Nuaimi ‘A’ and ‘B’, Dubai Police ‘A’ and ‘B’, Dubai State Security Service ‘A’ and ‘B’, Al Ain Cycling Team, Al Wathba ‘A’ and ‘B’, Airok Racing Team, Amigo Team, Breakaway Team, Yasi ‘A’ and ‘B’ Team, Go Cycling Dubai Team, and Rabdan ‘A’ and ‘B’ Team.

Falasi extended his gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for his esteemed presence and continued support, which has solidified the Al Salam Championship as one of the most prominent sporting events in the UAE and the region.

He also thanked Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum for launching the ‘Sword of Honour’ race, meeting committee members, and motivating them with his inspiring words.

The ‘Sword of Honour’ race unfolded over an impressive distance of 143 kilometers, set against the stunning backdrop of Seih Al Salam within the expansive Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.

Known for its breathtaking natural beauty and serene desert landscapes, the area provided an awe-inspiring stage for one of the most prestigious cycling events in the region.

The race was carefully designed to accommodate a maximum of 152 participants, ensuring a high level of competition and safety standards throughout the challenging course. As the cyclists pedaled through the reserve, they navigated diverse terrains and enjoyed panoramic views of Dubai’s pristine desert environment, accentuated by the golden sands and vibrant natural scenery.

The event was further enhanced by the favorable weather conditions, offering a comfortable and invigorating atmosphere for both participants and spectators.