UAE cyclists show support to Aghan National Women’s Cycling Team

Sport360 staff 17:39 28/08/2014
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  • Female riders in the UAE are being encouraged to get on their bikes for the Global Solidarity Ride this Saturday that will see thousands of women cycle around the world in support of the Afghan national women’s cycling team (ANWCT).

    In a country that has never allowed its women to ride bikes, a group of Afghan riders have been making history quietly, and they break through the gender barriers that exist in Afghanistan by riding their bikes. The ANWCT have steadily improved and already have an invitation to race at the Asian Games in South Korea in September.

    With the ANWCT pedaling a revolution, the GSR will unite communities around the world to show their support and creating awareness for the Afghan women, who will be cycling in Afghanistan on Saturday. And to support the team’s efforts, Dubai Velo Vixens have organized their own GSR that will begin at 06:00 at the top of Al Qudra Road, with the meeting point at Dubai Cycle Course near the UAE Trek shop.

    The ride, only open to females, is free to enter and anyone who wishes to cycle must bring their own bike, helmet and plenty of water. There are distances that riders can choose from – the 20, 35 and 50km rides.

    Emma Woodcock of Dubai Velo Vixens, said: “We decided to have three distance group rides because we want many riders to take part. We realize that not riders will have that much experience in cycling so they can choose which distance to ride.

    “The 20km distance is aimed at beginners, who have not cycled before, while the 35km are for people who already have a good level of fitness and comfortable riding in a group. The 50km is for experience cyclists, who ride long distances regularly.”

    Approximately 40 riders in the UAE have already signed up for the rider, which should end by 09:00. And Woodcock, is hopeful this number will increase, especially as there is no registration deadline.

    She said: “We want many people to come to show their support by riding this Saturday. It’s raising awareness and supporting and connecting with ANWCT.

    “It will be a good way to begin the day with a ride in an event that will be held in many countries around the world so their presence will make a difference.

    “I would advise anyone who is thinking of joining the ride to register their interest via email so that I have an approximate idea of numbers."

    For more information please email [email protected].

    Donations can be made by visiting http://www.mountain2mountain.org/donate.

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