The 11th Sharjah International Cycling Tour, themed “Proud and Giving,” officially began with the inauguration of its first stage, attended by Sheikh Dr. Salem bin Abdul Rahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office. The opening stage started from Al Noor Island in Sharjah City and concluded at the Wheat Farm in Maliha after covering a distance of 129.6 kilometres.
The opening ceremony featured traditional and heritage performances, along with marine displays organized by the Sharjah International Marine Sports Club. Following the cultural showcases, Sheikh Dr. Salem bin Abdul Rahman Al Qasimi gave the official signal to commence the race, marking the start of the prestigious international tour.
The Sharjah International Cycling Tour consists of five stages and also includes a local youth tour alongside the professional race, as well as a dedicated event for people of determination. The competition runs until Tuesday, the 27th of this month, and brings together 162 cyclists representing 27 teams and national squads from 18 countries, including the UAE.
Spanning a total distance of 503 kilometres across five stages, the international race will continue over the coming days. The second stage, titled “Al Jubail,” covers 129.56 kilometres, starting at Al Jubail Market in Sharjah City and finishing at Al Jubail Market in Kalba. The third stage, “Al Heera,” is an individual time trial of 9.8 kilometres, beginning and ending in the Al Heera area of Sharjah.
The fourth stage, named “Eastern,” will start from Dibba Al Hisn Island and conclude at the Al Suhub Rest Area in Khorfakkan. The fifth and final stage, “Heritage and Civilization,” spans 100.09 kilometres, beginning at the Sharjah Falconers Club and finishing at the Sharjah Grand Mosque.
