Over 300 women swim, run, cycle for fitness
dubai — Following the huge success of the first edition last November, the Dubai Women’s Triathlon returned on Friday, seeing an even stronger participation of over 300 women, including over 100 Emirati women.
The triathlon that started around 6am was open to ladies of all nationalities, aged 16 and above, and was organised by the Dubai Ladies Club in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council.
Participants could choose to participate in three categories: Super Sprint (400m swim, 10km cycling and 2.5km run), Sprint (750m swim, 20km cycle, 5km run) and the Olympic Distance (1.5km swim, 40km cycle, 10km run). The event was attended by the Hessa bint Essa Buhumaid, Minister of Community Development, and Mona Al Marri, chairperson and managing director of the Dubai Women Establishment.
Scores of onlookers cheered for the women who started the triathlon with a swim at the Dubai Ladies Club private beach followed by cycling and ended the competition with the sprint. A number of women of determination were also part of the triathlon.
The Dubai Police segregated a part of the Jumeirah Beach Road with barriers and made a special cycling track for the participating women. Registered nurses and emergency medical services were also present onsite.
Lamia Abdulaziz Khan, director of the Dubai Ladies Club, deputy chair of the Women’s Sports Committee of Dubai Sports Council and head of the Dubai Women’s Triathlon’s organising committee, said: “Every single one of you is a true winner today — winners in dedication, determination and resilience. The willpower you showed today, it’s what the Dubai Women’s Triathlon is all about. So thank you for being here today, and thank you for your effort. Your participation today is greater than racing through tracks and crossing finish lines — your participation today has a profound impact on the lives of many.”
Proceeds from the registration for the race will go to Al Jalila Foundation’s iMcan programme to provide women and children with prosthetics to contribute to an active lifestyle.
After the triathlon, the Dubai Ladies Club also organised a family-friendly Triathlon Village that included numerous health, sports and leisure activities for women, children and families.
Representing Al Jalila Foundation was Dareen Barbar, an Arab amputee who was also the ambassador for the triathlon.
For 16-year-old British expat Lauren, it was ‘fun and challenging’ as she participated with her mom Kate. Both Kate and Lauren stood third in the beginners level of the triathlon. In the local team category, Roads and Transport Authority employees Fatima, Shamma and Suhaila were ecstatic as they stood first in the local category for super sprint. “We are happy to have secured a good position as we could serve as a good example for other Emirati girls to come and participate in such events.”
Apart from getting medals, all participants were treated to free breakfast as well as physiotherapy and massages at the Triathlon Village. Highest governmental participation was seen by the Dubai Municipality with 23 women taking part in the triathlon in different categories.