The Giant Bicycle Duathlon series will have its fifth race next month, and there’s still time to register yourselves before the closing date on February 6.
Whether you’re a beginner or professional, the run-bike-run event offers people the chance test themselves out at the Dubai Camel Racing track. If you want to give yourself a challenge then taking part in this event will be worthwhile.
To be held on February 8, people of different nationalities and ages will be taking part in the three different categories. The duathlon is similar to the triathlon, with the only difference being there is no swimming leg.
As with all races, the moment the organisers begin proceedings, the race begins. One of the tricky parts of the duathlon is the transition.
This means that the time it takes you to switch from running to cycling and back again is part of your race time. One of the plus points is that there are both team and individual categories.
There is something for everyone regardless of your age, with categories ranging from kids to participants aged 70-plus.
The main race begins at 09:00 (open to aged 13 and over), which consists of a 5km run, 40km bike and 5km run. If this is too demanding, then organisers have put on a secondary race at 09:30 (open for 10-years and over), with a 3km run, 25km bike and 2.5km run.
Children between eight and 12 can participate in the ‘tweens’ race (2km run, 12km bike and again a 2km run), while kids aged under 12 will have their own race that involves a 1km run, a 4.5km bike and then another 1km run.
Participating in the duathlon will introduce you and your body to the rigours of competing in two sports rather than just one. As well as the health benefits it’s a good way of making friends and if you enjoy your day, then there are other races planned for the rest of the series.
Andy Fordham, events director, has vast experience of the duathlon and believes it’s a great opportunity for everyone to take part.
He said: “It appeals to everyone. There is the fitness gain and there’s people who are interested in it. One of the good things about the duathlon is the whole of the race is held in a particular venue where there are no cars, you’re not going to face any traffic and won’t be competing on public roads.
“Duathlon hasn’t really had a strong profile in UAE but it’s growing steadily and am pleased to see this.”
With the venue next to the Sevens Stadium, it’s an easy location to find and is a fantastic venue for the event. Free from on-going traffic and a flat-course on private road, it’s definitely a place where you won’t have to worry about your safety.
The registration can be done on www.premieronline.com, where you will find information on entry fees – which includes a chip timing, refreshments and a post-race goody bag after the finish line – and all the important details.
If you’re unable to participate or fancy having another go then there will be a further four races scheduled in the series after the February 8 event, so there’s more reasons to enjoy the duathlon.
What: Giant Duathlon Series: Race Five
When: Saturday, February 8
Where: Dubai Camel Racing Track
Contact: Visit www.premieronline.com for registration (closes on February 6), entry fees and more information about the event.
