Lorena Wiebes Triumphs at Al Salam Women’s Cycling Race in Dubai

Dubai, UAE:

The Women’s Race, held under the auspices of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, was a noteworthy segment of the 10th installment of the Al Salam Cycling Championship.

Featuring an impressive 93 km route, the race drew elite female cyclists from both the UAE and internationally, vying for a staggering prize pool of AED 460,000. The event unfolded amidst the stunning landscapes of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve.

Lorena Wiebes from Dubai Police/Esaad showcased exceptional skill and strategy, emerging victorious and securing AED 100,000. Her teammate, Femke Markus, finished in second place, earning AED 70,000, while Nina Kessler of Dubai Residence Cycling Club A rounded out the top three with AED 50,000.

In the team standings, Dubai Police/Esaad took the lead, with Dubai Residence Cycling Club A trailing in second and Dubai Residence Cycling Club B in third.

Mouza Al Mansoori won in the Emirati Women’s Over-40 category, while Yulia Polevaya from Airwerks Team 1 topped the Open Women’s Over-40 category.

Starting at the Al Qudra Endurance Village in Saih Al Salam, the race traversed famous landmarks before concluding at the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. The event received global coverage via television and digital streaming.

The ceremony was initiated by Mohammed Al-Mousa, a member of the Supreme Organising Committee and head of the Technical Committee.

Omair bin Juma Al Falasi, Director General of the Private Office of the Ruler of Dubai and Supreme Organising Committee Chairman, expressed gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his ongoing support. He applauded the significant female participation and emphasized the championship's goal to inspire more athletes in upcoming editions.

Adding to this, he mentioned that two races in the current edition focus solely on women, aligning with Dubai’s commitment to fostering women’s sports and empowering female athletes.

The Al Salam Cycling Championship is a collaborative effort involving strategic partners such as Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Sports Council, Government of Dubai Media Office, UAE Cycling Federation, and Dubai Sports Channel.

Upcoming desert races for both men and women are scheduled for 31 January and 1 February, with details on another race to follow soon.