15-year-old cyclist is the first person of determination to represent a team in UAE’s cycling circuit
As cycling continues to gain popularity in Abu Dhabi, a cycling club is taking action to make the sport a true symbol of inclusivity.
Al Wathba Cycling Team announced that it has welcomed a 15-year-old person of determination as the newest member of the team.
Abdullah Hilal Al Shamsi, who has Down syndrome, will represent Al Wathba in various races as the first person of determination to officially compete in the UAE cycling circuit.
The move underlines the government’s push to promote Abu Dhabi as a cycling city. The UAE capital has already been recognised as a “Bike City” by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), while a new initiative by Abu Dhabi Cycling Club aims to create tour packages offering exciting ways to explore Abu Dhabi.
Read the latest edition of Yalla – Abu Dhabi Life magazine
The Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO) has commended the club for supporting its members and empowering people of determination as they integrate into society.
Al Shamsi’s arrival to the team is part of Al Wathba’s commitment to promote the sport across all segments of society, said Captain Suliman Al Hammadi, Director of Al Wathba Cycling Team.
Far from being a burden, Al Hammadi also emphasised that Al Shamsi adds value to the club with his skills and passion for the sport. The community-based club, which was founded in 2016, also revealed big plans to develop Al Shamsi into a top cyclist who will represent the club in international competitions, Al Hammadi added.
Hilal Abdullah Al Shamsi, the cyclist’s father, was overjoyed with the support of the club and ZHO to his son’s quest for cycling excellence and to represent the UAE in the international cycling scene.
Al Shamsi’s journey to becoming a competitive cyclist took off when he started cycling training two years ago, according to Hilal Abdullah Al Shamsi.
The young cyclist competed in various state-wide community races, where he drew the attention of various cycling teams. Seven months ago, Al Shamsi started professional training at the Al Wathba cycle track.
Impressed with his great potential and good understanding of the sport, Al Wathba invited Al Shamsi to create history as the team’s newest member and first-ever person of determination to represent a team in UAE cycling competitions.
Follow Yalla – Abu Dhabi Life for all the latest events across the capital and beyond
Image source WAM
