ADC 2020 | race report

RACE REPORT 2020



AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORT AL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT RETURN TO PLAY The Al Adaid Desert Challenge 2020 was the last big event organized in We have added trail running in 2018 and off-road duathlon in 2020. Both Qatar before the pandemic hit our country and all similar activities were contests were well accepted and are together almost reaching the total suspended. Only after the event, when we were going through our photo number of participants of mtb race. and video material did we realize how we take things for granted. It was the best event to date, sold out, having 650 + participants on the We could not have done all this without the support of our loyal start line. We are confident that the numbers will only go up. What we sponsors, for which we are incredibly grateful. With the help of our me- observed during this pandemic is an unprecedented number of nationals dia partner, our ten-minute video documentary reached households all and residents taking up sport, especially cycling. All the specialized bike over the world and is also included on inflight entertainment on all Qatar shops in Doha sold out their stocks and newly ordered bikes were already Airways flights (Dec 2020 – Nov 2021). reserved and waiting for their new owners to pick them up immediately after they reached the stores. The pandemic is still not over, Qatar however has been successful in keeping the curb down and we are ready to return to play. Very much We are always trying to add something to the event. It has been growing looking forward to the 2021 event. Stay safe, stay healthy. in numbers by around 50 % every year and the logistics of the event has changed significantly. We have moved the location of the finish line Dr. Jamal Rashid Al Khanji from the far end of the desert to the newly built Doha Bus desert resort. Managing Director 3

RUNNINGRunning category was added to the SU event in 2018. It has since doubled in 4 numbers and reaching more than 250 participants in 2020. The runners had to cover a distance of 28.5 km crossing five sand dunes in the process, Morocco’s Abderra- him hayour repeated his win from 2019, completing the race in 1:42:10 h, almost three minutes ahead of Qatar’s Mohcine Zaytouni who came second, and Morocco’s Houssine Ladoue who EVENTfinishedthird.

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORT AL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT MTB The Al Adaid Desert Challenge is a big highlight and the most challenging cycling event on Qatar’s off road cycling calendar. The race is also part of the International Cycling Union calendar. Marked as UCI C3 Cross Country 5 point to point race, it covers 40 km of astonishing desert track. The event was initially started by the Qatar Chain Reaction (QCR) cycling group in 2010. It was called the ‘Inland Sea Traverse’ and the number of MTB participants varied between 50 – 60 riders per year. The event was run on a minimal budget and dependent on the support of the partici- pants’ friends and families. Frederic Gombert of France made a back to back victory on slightly longer and tougher route than in 2019 – which included the tough task of UMMARYcrossing eightsanddunesonthewaytothefinishline–in1:42:17h, four minutes ahead of Slovenian Gregor Sikošek, while Poland’s Syzmon Wasiak took third place.

OFF ROAD DUATHLON Triathlon is growing in popularity in Qatar and elsewhere. Duathlon contest was added in 2020, where athletes had to cover a full 40 km MTB route crossing 8 dunes with bikes to reach the finish line and then run for 7km in the loop around the Doha Bus camp. Around 50 competitors signed up for the first edition. EVENT SUTunisianMehdiMersniwasunbeatablewitha total time of 2:34:43h, ahead of Dutch Jan Wouters and Qatari national Mubarak Alajji. 6

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT RKAIDCSE A kids’ race was also organized 7 near the finish line at the Doha Bus Desert Adventure Camp, where children aged between 7 and 15 had a chance to learn more about mountain bikes as their family members cheered them alongside the route. It aims to further promote this sport in Qatar, where it is al- ready making rapid progress. Some 30 kids attended the race UMMARYin2020.

DR. ABDULAZIZ AL KUWARI NASSER AL-ANSARI PRESIDENT OF QATAR CYCLISTS INTERNATIONAL OFFICE / SPORTS TOURISM MANAGER AT QATAR TOURISM AUTHORITY It’s a great event, a chance for athletes to challenge themselves and have a target to work for during the Qatar has established itself as a major player in the winter. It’s also a great gathering, for some it’s re- sports tourism industry during the past decade, and Al ally competitive, for others main goal is to finish the Adaid Desert Challenge plays a huge role in strengthen- course.The event is catering for different types of ath- ing the country’s reputation as a main destination letes and different ages. Al Adaid Desert Challenge is for adventure sports’ enthusiasts. We are proud to be among Qatar Cyclists top annual events, it sponsoring the event for the fourth consecutive year. The offers a mix of endurance and adventure sports, and success of the past three editions proves the increasing once again a thrilling finale is expected as Qatari cy- popularity of the challenge in Qatar and around the clists will be competing for the MTB Cross Country na- world. tional title. 8

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT DR. JAMAL RASHID AL KHANJI MANAGING DIRECTOR OF AL ADAID DESERT I’m proud of our event and the progress we made in the last five years. Like the event itself is challenging, it has always been challenging also for us as organizers to deliver what is probably one of the most anticipat- ed events in Qatar. As always, all this would not be possible with the hard work of our team and our loyal sponsors. We will again do our best, to deliver and create the most memorable event for the largest num- ber of participants to date. 9

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TREMENDOUS SUCCESS FOR THE FOURTH EDITIONAlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORT AL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT OF AL ADAID DESERT CHALLENGE Qatar’s premier off-road endurance event, the Al Adaid Desert Frederic Gombert of France made his hat-trick of wins this year. His 11 Challengetoppedlastyear’srecordparticipationwith615athletesfrom51 light build proving a definite advantage over that of larger, stronger different nationalities taking part in mountain bike and desert running riders on the soft sand. This year’s extended course included more races across Khor Al Adaid, one of Qatar’s most beautiful natural areas. of that than ever as it followed the 40.5 km route – which included The turnout this year has exceeded all expectations, a sell-out race the tough task of crossing ten sand dunes on the way to the finish despite creating additional capacity, most notably in extra logistics line. Gombert’s time of 1:42:17, was eight minutes slower than last support from Doha Bus and expanded facilities at the Al Majles de- year despite more favourable weather conditions. With Shokri al- sert resort which was used for the finish zone for the first time. ready out of contention, it was Gregor Sikosek (Slovenia) who came The growth came despite a number of overseas competitors fall- closest to challenging the Frenchman, some four and a half minutes ing foul of travel restrictions imposed as a result of the Corona Vi- adrift. Eight minutes later, Szymon Wasiak (Poland) crossed the line rus epidemic. Regardless, the rapid increase in mountain cycling for third place, exhausted by his effort. Gombert observed, “The popularity in Qatar and, most notably, the strong local interest in race was harder this year, but I have adapted well and the expe- endurance sports in general, more than compensated for the loss rience I have gained over the past years made the difference to- although the UCI Elite competition was poorer without the regular day.” Reflecting on its position as an international race, he said, “I international names such as Iranian, Faraz Shokri who took second am always keen on taking part in this challenge to enjoy the good place last year. More than 300 participants took part in the cycling weather in Qatar during this time of the year compared to Europe, race, among them, tourists who travelled from countries like Great I am getting ready for some tough races in France this season and I Britain, France, Australia, Ireland, Croatia and the USA especially to like to explore different countries while taking part in races around take part in the event. the world. Khor Al Adaid is an area with a unique nature. I also The event is organized by Qatar Cyclists in cooperation with the Qatar like the fact that race allows me to compete against cyclists from National Tourism Council (QNTC) and the support of the ministry of many different nationalities, plus of course the prize money this Culture and Sports and Qatar Cycling Federation, in addition to a year, which was good.” list of sponsors that include gold sponsors Doha Insurance Group, One of the most notable performances of the day was from two- Doha Takaful and Ooredoo, and official supporters Chevrolet Qatar, time Olympian, Pia Sundstedt. Although this was her fifth comple- Rasen Sports, Al Rayyan Water, Doha Bus, Garmin Lingawi, Mawater tion and fifth win, it is surely ranked among the best with a result Qatar, Royal Riviera Hotel Doha, Qatar Red Crescent, Dama Sports which placed her fourth overall – just 30 seconds off stealing a po- Wear. dium position from the men. The Elite category of the cycling race in Al Adaid is recognized by the Pia describes herself as a sand specialist, “I just let the bike find International Cycling Union (UCI) as a category 3 XCP race and it offers its way and I find that balance being able to stay on the bike even the highest prize money in the world in its class. The total purse when you think you will fall. It’s a special technique that I learned across all disciplines – cycling, running and duathlon – totalled already as a child.” Sophie Giovane, travelling from southern France QAR 216,000. also found an improvement in form this year, holding off Isora Sosa (Spain) for the silver medal.

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Al Adaid incorporates the Qatar National Mountain Bike Championship. This year the AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT riders occupying all three podium spots had stepped up to the UCI Elite category. A New for 2020’s Al Adaid was the additional challenge of an 8km run immediately new generation of riders racing at this level being a positive indication of the devel- following the bike in the duathlon category. Elite off-road triathlon specialist Mehdi opment of elite cycling in Qatar. Abdulla Al Khater pulled on the National Champion Mersni put in a bike performance which would have placed him highly in the MTB Jersey after two hours and 9 minutes of riding. He beat the title holder, Marwan competition and continued with a blistering run, only to find he had been misdi- Al Jalham, who had found himself losing the lead group after some problems at rected. In two of the most impressive displays of sportsmanship of the event, Mersni the start. Fadhel Al Khater took bronze. In all, 168 Qatari nationals completed the proceeded to chase back to within 90 seconds of Jan Woutters (Netherlands) who challenge this year. An increase on last year and a reflection of the strong and devel- conceded the win in recognition of a performance which he felt deserved first place. oping interest in cycling and endurance sport. Endurance didn’t come much greater The three leaders of the Women’s duathlon were all in the veteran class: Andrea than the effort of Ahmed Shahrani, last placed in 7:05:22. Ahmed becomes the first Stadler (Ecuador), Daniela Sposi (GBR) and Govida Dellomas (Philippines) all beating wheelchair athlete to complete the challenge. their younger rivals. In his first year of bike racing, 18 year old Axel Dopfer (Germany) decisively led the Dr. Jamal Rashed Al Khanji, Managing Director of Al Adaid Desert Challenge com- Open classification with a performance which would have placed him 5th UCI Elite. mented “The success achieved by Al Adaid Desert Challenge today exceeded all ex- By his own admission, Dopfer went into the race with some trepidation as the sand pectations. We thank all the sponsors and supporters of this event, without them is not his natural territory. He said, “I knew it was going to be a tough day in the it would have not been possible to achieve all this. The event broke all records this saddle as I usually stick to the road bike. While it was indeed tough, I can say with year in terms of the number of participants and international cyclists, in addition to confidence that it was one of the most enjoyable and rewarding races I have ever the total prize money. The popularity of cycling in Qatar is rapidly increasing, thanks done”. Asked how he coped as a sand novice, he commented “The whole group to support of our rode full gas into the first sand and a good number wiped out. I was lucky to avoid wise leadership. “We are planning to expand Al Adaid Desert Challenge next year, to that! I lost quite a bit of ground on the ridable sand but I was able to close the gaps move it to a higher UCI category, on the hard ground and my running background really helped me on the dunes.” maybe by making it a three-day event or perhaps turning the duathlon into a very Mouchcine Rhaili (Morocco), who has dominated much of the road racing this year, unique triathlon, which will attract more international athletes to come to Qatar to settled for third place on this occasion, 90 seconds further back. Spaniard, Carla Pre- participate in the race and enjoy this unique adventure in one of the most beautiful gigueiro was ladies winner in 2:53:20, beating Sondra Hope and Charlotte Wohlwend natural areas in the world,” he added. (Switzerland). Mr. Andre Filip, Event Manager commented: “We are very pleased that we were The North Africans again dominated the desert run. Abderrahim Ghayour taking the able to organize another wonderful edition of Al Adaid Desert Challenge. Our top win for the second year in a row, impressively adding only a minute to his time over priority was ensuring the safety of all the participants and we successfully achieved the longer course. Countryman Houssine Lahdou was third but the Moroccans didn’t this. Everyone enjoyed the different races offered by the event and we received a have the entire podium to themselves – Mohcine Zaytouni, representing Qatar, occu- positive feedback from UCI official who was here to monitor the event. It is a great step pied the silver spot. Back to Morocco for the Women’s champion though with Zineb forward for the future of this event on international level.” Karam beating two brits; Daisy Baker and Sophie Clarke. 13

FREDERIC GOMBERT (FRA) WINNER OF THE MEN’S ELITE CATEGORY MTB RACE The race was really tough, the sand was very dry and it was hard to stay on the bike pedaling uphill. It was a great experience, I like it a lot. I won in the UCI category and I am extremely happy and already looking forward to the next event.

ABDULLA AL KHATER (QAT) AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT FIRST PLACE QATAR NATIONAL 15 MTB CHAMPIONSHIPS It’s one of the toughest races, because of the sand dunes. You have to jump off and on the bike a lot. It wasn’t easy trying to race with International riders. It’s really a unique race, one of a kind, that it’s difficult to experience anywhere else. I would like to welcome all international participants to join us.

PIA SUNDSTEDT (FIN) WINNER OF THE WOMEN’S ELITE CATEGORY CYCLING RACE I felt strong today, I knew I am in good shape and prepared very well for the race. This is my fifth time and I like it more and more each year. I know all the dunes and how to approach them. It was my best performance since I started competing in this race. 16

GREGOR SIKOŠEK (SLO) AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT SECOND PLACE MEN’S 17 ELITE CATEGORY MTB RACE The race was very different from the races I do in Europe. We had flat sections, which were fast, but the uphill sections were too sandy and I was technically not well prepared for that. I managed to ride down on all the dunes and gained some time, but Frederick was really strong gaining time uphill. By the half of the race, we were already one by one. I am very happy with the second place and will spread the word in my community to bring more riders from my region.

FINISHER MEDALS PROOF OF ACHIEVEMENT AND SPORTS MEMORABILIA A proper challenge deserves a proper reward. All 650+ competitors who tackle and finish the tough route receive a custom made, hand painted medal. It’s is a beauty, almost a piece of art, and something that you don’t just throw in the closet and forget about. 18

WINNERS JERSEY AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORT AL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT ALWAYS UNIQUE, ALWAYS SPECIAL WYYOOIUUNNCNEAERNESD’TOTBNOULYDY!EISTERVE IT The leader of Tour de France wears Yellow 19 Jersey, World Champions wear Rainbow Jersey, and Al Adaid Desert Champions wear our own special jersey. The distinctive jersey, that the winners of respected categories get to wear on the podium after the race is branded with Al Adaid Desert Challenge logos and main sponsors of the event. We take great care of the design of the jersey and make new one each year of the event. The jersey is quite colourful representing elements of Qatar flag, sand, sea, sun, …

MTB - UCI C3 MTB Elite Men MTB - Mountainbike / Open Men 1. 1 GOMBERT Frédéric France 1:42:17 -- 1. 306 DOPFER Axel Germany 1:55:41 -- 2. 7 Slovenia 1:46:44 +0:04:27 Portugal 2:05:49 +0:10:08 3. 11 WASIAK Szymon Poland 1:54:48 +0:12:31 2. 252 FERNANDES Paulo Morocco 2:07:16 +0:11:35 Elite Women SUNDSTEDT Pia Finland 3. 305 RHAILI Mouchcine Qatar GIOVANE Sophie France Philippines 1. 30 SOSA Isora Spain MTB - FatBike / Open Men Australia 2. 35 3. 34 1:55:21 -- 1. 320 ALJAADI Hamad Salem Spain 2:06:34 -- 2:20:58 +0:25:37 South Africa 2:25:07 +0:18:33 2:26:56 +0:31:35 2. 193 JUSTO Jumel Switzerland 2:30:08 +0:23:34 3. 129 GRAY Matthew Philippines Philippines MTB - Mountainbike / Open Women Philippines 1. 154 PREGIGUEIRO Carla 2:53:20 -- 3:01:36 +0:08:16 MTB QATARI (TOP 20 overall) 2. 248 HOPE Sondra 3:28:30 +0:35:10 3. 177 WOHLWEND Charlotte QATARI MTB MTB - FatBike / Open Women 1. 4 2. 3 AL KHATER Abdulla Qatar 2:09:18 -- 1. 241 AGCAOILI Katrina 3:43:19 -- 3. 6 ALJALHAM Marwan Qatar 2:11:50 +0:02:32 4:34:10 +0:50:51 4. 13 ALKHATER Fadhel Qatar 2:18:31 +0:09:13 2. 236 LLEGOS Christine 4:34:11 +0:50:52 5. 133 AL FARIZI Farhan Qatar 2:28:24 +0:19:06 6. 309 ALMOHANNADI Abdulaziz Saeed Qatar 2:32:01 +0:22:43 3. 269 DU Dovie 7. 324 ALTHANI Khalid Qatar 2:33:28 +0:24:10 8. 292 AL KHULAIFI Khalifa Essa Qatar 2:46:53 +0:37:35 MTB - Mountainbike / Veteran Men 9. 281 KHALID Nasser Qatar 2:52:20 +0:43:02 10. 258 ALFAIHANI Nayef Qatar 2:54:50 +0:45:32 1. 182 BUSTOS DEL VALLE Andres Argentina 2:12:24 -- 11. 261 ALZAMAN Faisal Qatar 2:54:58 +0:45:40 Argentina 2:18:36 +0:06:12 12. 307 ALDELAIMI Abdulaziz Qatar 2:55:47 +0:46:29 2. 244 VARELA Miguel South Africa 2:29:15 +0:16:51 13. 218 ALSULAITI Hamad Qatar 2:58:06 +0:48:48 14. 256 ALAMRI Ahmad Qatar 3:01:48 +0:52:30 3. 202 ANDERSON Jaco Greece 15. 126 ALKUWARI Ahmad Ajlan Qatar 3:05:09 +0:55:51 United States of 16. 221 ALMALKI Ahmad Qatar 3:05:59 +0:56:41 MTB - FatBike / Veteran Men Czech Republic 17. 264 AL KUWARI Mohammed Jaham Qatar 3:17:00 +1:07:42 18. 220 AL SAADI Abdul Fatah Qatar 3:17:32 +1:08:14 1. 175 TZANIS Anastasios Spain 2:25:55 -- 19. 302 ALGHANIM Saleh Qatar 3:18:26 +1:09:08 Australia 2:33:22 +0:07:27 20. 315 AL KAHALDI Abdulla Khalil Qatar 3:21:08 +1:11:50 2. 188 TOXEY Jeff Canada 2:55:06 +0:29:11 AL-KUWARI Yousef Qatar 3:21:43 +1:12:25 3. 215 BURES Ivo Philippines MTB - Mountainbike / Veteran Women 1. 115 FONTANA BELENGUER Sara 3:28:18 -- 3:38:59 +0:10:41 2. 184 ALLEN Bec 4:47:27 +1:19:09 3. 267 HAAGEN Rhonda MTB - FatBike / Veteran Women 1. 128 ESTACIO Maricar 3:43:34 -- 20

RUN KIDS RACE AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT Open Men GHAYOUR Abderrahim Morocco 1:42:10 -- Boys U12 NAVERA Jared Benedict Philippines 0:05:27 -- 1. 547 ZAYTOUNI Mohcine Qatar 1:45:03 +0:02:53 1. 914 PESURNAY Aria Indonesia 0:06:25 +0:00:58 2. 647 LAHDOU Houssine Morocco 1:48:05 +0:05:55 2. 909 HARDIANA Farrel Indonesia 0:06:49 +0:01:22 3. 652 3. 925 KARAM Zineb Morocco 2:22:26 -- MELVILLE Isla United Kingdom 0:06:47 -- Open Women BAKER Daisy United Kingdom 2:25:54 +0:03:28 Girls U12 BACULAO Jameela Ashley Philippines 0:06:48 +0:00:01 1. 653 CLARKE Sophie United Kingdom 2:31:33 +0:09:07 1. 917 WAGIH Hanya Egypt 0:08:50 +0:02:03 2. 509 2. 919 3. 502 KYEREME Kojo United Kingdom 1:50:01 -- 3. 926 PRASETYO Aditya Indonesia 0:09:38 -- JONES Andrew United Kingdom 1:53:44 +0:03:43 IHSAN Ameer Singapore 0:09:44 +0:00:06 Veteran Men CLUNE Steve Ireland 2:09:21 +0:19:20 Boys U16 BIN HASMIN Muhammad Iman Malaysia 0:09:46 +0:00:08 1. 648 1. 906 2. 433 2. 921 3. 420 3. 912 Veteran Women BOYCE Aoife Ireland 2:41:40 -- Girls U16 SAJEER KALANDAAN Rasha India 0:14:38 -- 1. 508 SKELTON Kirsty Zimbabwe 3:07:16 +0:25:36 1. 927 STA ROSA Thea Marie Philippines 2. 435 FACEY Abigail United Kingdom 3:26:01 +0:44:21 2. 907 1:40:25 +1:25:47 3. 529 MTB DUATHLON (BIKE + RUN) Open Men MERSNI Mehdi Tunisia 2:34:43 -- ONLINE RESULTS 1. 721 WOUTERS Cornelis Jan Netherlands 2:43:15 +0:08:32 2. 710 ALAJJI Mubarak Qatar 2:55:50 +0:21:07 21 3. 718 ALIWALAS Charmaine Philippines 5:35:34 +1:05:34 Open Women PRATT Erin Canada 4:30:00 -- 3. 759 RUIZ Rowena Philippines 4:50:18 1. 726 +0:20:18 2. 727 AL-MOHANNADI Saleh Croatia 2:55:27 -- Veteran Men AL-OBAIDLY Mohammed Qatar 3:05:56 +0:10:29 1. 257 Qatar 3:16:13 +0:20:46 2. 712 3. 750 STADLER Andrea Ecuador 3:15:08 -- SPOSI Daniela United Kingdom 3:39:21 +0:24:13 Veteran Women DELLOMAS Govinda Debi Dasi Philippines 4:58:02 +1:42:54 1. 720 2. 704 3. 752

268 MTB / 306 RUN 62 OFF ROAD Duathlon PARTICIPANTS STATSTICS 636 participants 56nationalities 5 races 534 finishers147Qatari participants 7 years old youngest 71 oldest participant MTB Winner time: 1:42:17 | RUN Winner time: 1:42:10 22

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT YEAR MTB RUN DUATHLON TOTAL RISE IN % COMPARING TO PREVIOUS YEAR 2016 183 62 130 2017 239 239 184 % 2018 240 119 359 150 % 2019 307 218 525 146 % 2020 268 306 636 121 % 2016 183 2017 239 2018 359 2019 524 2020 636 23

MARKETING / PROMOTION COMMUNICATION / MEDIA Marketing and Promotion were based on previous year’s strategy and were The event has further developed in terms of Comms and Media, following once more supported by the Qatar Tourism Authority / QNTC. up last year’s bespoke comms strategy. WEBSITE MEDIA SUPPORT SERVICES The dedicated website www.aladaid.qa has published all the stories that Transportation and catering especially for the media attending the event have been sent to media as Press Releasesa Customised solutions for their needs Media Operations for the areas dedicated to media during the event SOCIAL MEDIA Targeted social media campaign on Facebook and Instagram. 36 posts in a COMMUNCATION STRATEGY period of 2 months in Facebook including graphics, live streaming, sponsors Once again a short term development strategy has been followed to engage promotion, photo galleries. 12 posts and more stories in Instagram with the media and audience in the last month leading to the event with highlights of the Facebook campaign. Press Releases and coverage in the local traditional media EVENT COVERAGE PRESS CONFERENCE All main local and locally based international channels have covered the The launching of the Press Conference gave once again the opportunity to event and the official Press Conference local media to address directly the organisers and to get an insight in the preparations of theevent EVENT PHOTOGRAPHY More that ten accredited and event photographers covered the event PRESS KIT & RELEASES More than 5,000 photos available 3 Press Releases 41 articles in traditional media and websites EVENT VIDEOGRAPHY Al Adaid Desert Challenge partnered with Icarus Sports, one of the leading Sports Media companies for outdoor events. Their production and broad- cast services delivered compelling and inspirational 10 minute documentary of the event, proven to retain existing and attract new audiences. The video documentary reached households all over the world and is also included on inflight entertainment on all Qatar Airways flights (Dec 2020 – Nov 2021). 24

QA flight - inflight entertainment AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT 25

TV SHOWS & 57% 68% Household DOCUMENTARY reach AGE The event’s 10-minute documentary was promoted to an 32% 855,3M international network of broadcasters. COSMOTE TV (Greece) 21% 22% 10-29 and EDGE Sport (Belgium, Netherlands, Cyprus, Germany, 30-49 Greece, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Turkey, Austria, Bulgaria, 65 50+ Switzerland, UK, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, India, Japan, Macau, Mongolia, Myanmar, Philippines, TV CHANNELS * based on data provided by TV channels Solomon Islands, Thailand, Vietnam, Abu Dhabi, Australia, New Zealand, Mauritius, Singapore, China, Canada, Pan LATAM) used the event’s documentary. 30H 51MIN >1,75 TOTAL Media value in AIRTIME MILLION Euros 10 minutes of the event’s best moments and interviews with the participants and the organization, were featured in the monthly Outdoor Sports Show TV magazine. The Outdoor Sports Show showcases a diverse array of outdoor sports covering professional and recreational sports as well as extreme and adventure sports. It is the home of marathon races, climbing, skiing, surfing, hiking, triathlon, sailing and cycling. It takes the viewer on a journey of human endeavour, beautiful nature, captures the passion and tells the stories behind victories. *Key Countries: Austria, Germany, United Kingdom, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, Portugal, Malta, Greece, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Turkey, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, Liechtenstein, Slovakia, Slovenia, Israel, USA, Canada, Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, China, India, Myanmar, Vietnam, Macau 26

TV News Airlines AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT Digital Media ITALY The event’s documentary Will D4O9CUM.4EN0TA0RY be available on Qatar airways’ VIEWS on Facebook inflight Entertainment platform DEC 2020 – NOV 2021 :\" 27

NEWSPAPERS SUNDAY 1 MARCH 2020 SPORTSPORT 21 We will need our fans on our side from the first to All major local newspapers, English and Arabic, and all last minute: Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane TODAY’S CRICKET CRICKET locally based tv channels engaged positively in this year’s says ahead of today's La Liga title showdown ACTION event, from the official Press Conference, one week before against Barcelona. Second Test, Day Pakistan Super the event, to the daily updates with the preparations and 2: New Zealand League: Islamabad the stakeholders / sponsors quotes to the coverage of the vs India in United vs Karachi event itself. Christchurch Kings 28 Al Adaid Desert Challenge a huge success THE PENINSULA — DOHA Mouchcine Rhaili (Morocco), who has dominated much of the Qatar’s premier off-road Riders including Pia Sundtedt road racing this year, settled for endurance event, the Al Adaid (front, centre) in action during third place on this occasion, 90 Desert Challenge topped last the Elite UCI race. seconds further back. Spaniard, year’s record participation with Carla Pregigueiro was ladies 615 athletes from 51 different The event is organised by recognised by the International Al Adaid Desert Challenge her fifth completion and fifth winner in 2:53:20, beating nationalities taking part in Qatar Cyclists in cooperation Cycling Union (UCI) as a cat- 2020 topped last year’s win, it is surely ranked among Sondra Hope and Charlotte mountain bike and desert with the Qatar National Tourism egory 3 XCP race and it offers record participation the best with a result which Wohlwend (Switzerland). running races across Khor Al Council (QNTC) and the support the highest prize money in the with 615 athletes from placed her fourth overall – just Adaid, one of Qatar’s most of the ministry of Culture and world in its class. The total 51 different nationalities 30 seconds off stealing a The North Africans again beautiful natural areas. Sports and Qatar Cycling purse across all disciplines – taking part in mountain podium position from the men. dominated the desert run, with Federation. cycling, running and duathlon bike and desert running Abderrahim Ghayour taking the The turnout this year has – totalled QR216,000. races across Khor Al Al Adaid incorporates the win for the second year in a exceeded all expectations, a In addition to a list of Adaid. Qatar National Mountain Bike row, impressively adding only sell-out race despite creating sponsors that include gold Frederic Gombert of France Championship. This year the a minute to his time over the additional capacity, most sponsors Doha Insurance made his hat-trick of wins this Al Adaid Desert Challenge riders occupying all three longer course. notably in extra logistics Group, Doha Takaful and year. His light build proving a 2020 is the longest, podium spots had stepped up support from Doha Bus and Ooredoo, and official supporters definite advantage over that of toughest and largest to to the UCI Elite category. Countryman Houssine expanded facilities at the Al Chevrolet Qatar, Rasen Sports, larger, stronger riders on the date. Lahdou was third but the Majles desert resort which was Al Rayyan Water, Doha Bus, soft sand. A new generation of riders Moroccans didn’t have the used for the finish zone for the Garmin Lingawi, Mawater Frederic Gombert, Pia racing at this level being a pos- entire podium to themselves – first time. Qatar, Royal Riviera Hotel This year’s extended course Sundstedt and Axel Dopfer itive indication of the devel- Mohcine Zaytouni, representing Doha, Qatar Red Crescent, included more of that than ever displayed exceptional opment of elite cycling in Qatar. Qatar, occupied the silver spot. The growth came despite a Dama Sports Wear. as it followed the 40.5 km route performances. Back to Morocco for the number of overseas competitors – which included the tough task Abdulla Al Khater pulled on Women’s champion though falling foul of travel restrictions The Elite category of the of crossing ten sand dunes on Abdulla Al Khater the National Champion Jersey with Zineb Karam beating two imposed as a result of the cycling race in Al Adaid is the way to the finish line. emerged as Qatar's after two hours and 9 minutes brits; Daisy Baker and Sophie Corona Virus epidemic. national champion. of riding. Clarke. Regardless, the rapid Gombert’s time of 1:42:17, was He beat the title holder, New for 2020’s Al Adaid increase in mountain cycling eight minutes slower than last Marwan Al Jalham, who had was the additional challenge of popularity in Qatar and, most year despite more favourable found himself losing the lead an 8km run immediately fol- notably, the strong local interest weather conditions. With Shokri group after some problems at lowing the bike in the duathlon in endurance sports in general, already out of contention, it was the start. Fadhel Al Khater took category. more than compensated for the Gregor Sikosek (Slovenia) who bronze. loss although the UCI Elite com- came closest to challenging the Elite off-road triathlon spe- petition was poorer without the Frenchman, some four and a In all, 168 Qatari nationals cialist Mehdi Mersni put in a regular international names half minutes adrift. completed the challenge this bike performance which would such as Iranian, Faraz Shokri year. An increase on last year have placed him highly in the who took second place last year. Eight minutes later, Szymon and a reflection of the strong MTB competition and continued Wasiak (Poland) crossed the and developing interest in with a blistering run, only to More than 300 participants line for third place, exhausted cycling and endurance sport. find he had been misdirected. took part in the cycling race, by his effort. Gombert observed: Endurance didn’t come much among them, tourists who trav- “The race was harder this year, greater than the effort of Ahmed In two of the most elled from countries like Great but I have adapted well and the Shahrani, last placed in 7:05:22. impressive displays of sports- Britain, France, Australia, experience I have gained over Ahmed becomes the first wheel- manship of the event, Mersni Ireland, Croatia and the USA the past years made the dif- chair athlete to complete the proceeded to chase back to especially to take part in the ference today.” challenge. within 90 seconds of Jan event. Woutters (Netherlands) who One of the most notable In his first year of bike conceded the win in recognition Abderrahim Ghayour on his way to victory in the performances of the day was racing, 18 year old Axel Dopfer of a performance which he felt desert run. INSET: Frederic Gombert in action during from two-time Olympian, Pia (Germany) decisively led the deserved first place. the Al Adaid Desert Challenge 2020. Sundstedt. Although this was Open classification with a per- formance which would have The three leaders of the placed him 5th UCI Elite. By his Women’s duathlon were all in own admission, Dopfer went the veteran class: Andrea into the race with some trepi- Stadler (Ecuador), Daniela Sposi dation as the sand is not his (GBR) and Govida Dellomas natural territory. (Philippines) all beating their younger rivals. Dr. Jamal Rashed Al Khanji, Managing Director of Al Adaid Desert Challenge commented: “The success achieved by Al Adaid Desert Challenge today exceeded all expectations. We thank all the sponsors and sup- porters of this event, without them it would have not been possible to achieve all this.” Andre Filip, Event Manager commented: “Everyone enjoyed the different races offered by the event and we received a positive feedback from UCI official who was here to monitor the event. It is a great step forward for the future of this event on international level.” Premier League: Alonso double gives QSL: Al Khor beat Qatar SC

Sports 13Sunday, March 1, 2020 AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT Gombert, Sundstedt & AbdullaalKhaterisproudQatar 29 national champion as Al Adaid Desert Challenge 2020 turns out to dopfer outstanding bethebiggestandtoughest AL ADAID DESERT CHALLENGE RESULTS THE RESUlTS OF THE Al ADAID DESERT Open Women CHAllEnGE 2020: 1.KARAM Zineb (Morocco) 2:22:26 MTb - Fatbike / Open Men 2.BAKER Daisy (Britain) +0:03:28 1.ALJAADI Hamad Salem (Qatar) 2:06:34 3.CLARKE Sophie (Britain) +0:09:07 2.JUSTO Jumel (Philippines) +0:18:33 3.GRAY Matthew (Australia) +0:23:34 Veteran Men 1.KYEREME Kojo (Britain) 1:50:01 MTb - Fatbike / Open Women 2.JONES Andrew (Britain) +0:03:43 1.AGCAOILI Katrina (Philippines) 3:43:19 3.CLUNE Steve (Ireland) +0:19:20 2.LLEGOS Christine (Philippines) +0:50:51 3.DU Dovie (Philippines) +0:50:52 Veteran Women 1.BOYCE Aoife (Ireland) 2:41:40 MTb - Fatbike / Veteran Men 2.SKELTON Kirsty (Zimbabwe) +0:25:36 1.TZANIS Anastasios (Greece) 2:25:55 3.FACEY Abigail (Britain) +0:44:21 2.TOXEY Jeff (the US) +0:07:27 3.BURES Ivo (Czech Republic) +0:29:11 OFF ROAD Duathlon (MTb+RUn) - Open Men 1.MERSNI Mehdi (Tunisia) 2:34:43 MTb - Fatbike / Veteran Women 2.WOUTERS Cornelis Jan (Netherlands) 2:43:15 1.ESTACIO Maricar (Philippines) 3:43:34 3.ALAJJI Mubarak (Qatar) 2:55:50 MTb - Mountainbike / Open Men Open Women 1.DOPFER Axel (Germany) 1:55:41 1.PRATT Erin (Canada) 4:30:00 2.FERNANDES Paulo (Portugal) +0:10:08 2.RUIZ Rowena (Philippines) 4:50:18 3.RHAILI Mouchcine (Morocco) +0:11:35 3.ALIWALAS Charmaine (Philippines) 5:35:34 Elite class champions Frenchman Frederic Gombert (left) and two-time Olympian Pia Sundstedt of Finland. MTb - Mountainbike / Open Women Veteran Men 1.PREGIGUEIRO Carla (Spain) 2:53:20 1.PERIC Zoran (Croatia) 2:55:27 2.HOPE Sondra (South Africa) +0:08:16 2.BAKER James (Britain) 2:58:02 3.WOHLWEND Charlotte (Schweiz) +0:35:10 3.AL-MOHANNADI Saleh (Qatar) 3:05:56 TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK vourable weather conditions. Abderrahim Ghayour on this occasion, 90 seconds MTb - Mountainbike / Veteran Men Veteran Women Gregor Sikosek (Slovenia) won the Men’s Open further back. Spaniard, Carla Doha came closest to challenging run in the Al Adaid Pregigueiro was the winner 1.BUSTOS DEL VALLE Andres Pablo (Argentina) 2:12:24 1.STADLER Andrea (Ecuador) 3:15:08 the Frenchman and finished Desert challenge. in 2:53:20 among the ladies, 2.VARELA Miguel (Argentina) +0:06:12 2.SPOSI Daniela (Britain) 3:39:21 QATAR’S premier off-road some four minutes off the win- beating Sondra Hope and 3.ANDERSON Jaco (South Africa) +0:16:51 3.DELLOMAS Govinda Debi Dasi (Philippines) 4:58:02 endurance event, the Al Adaid ner. Eight minutes later, Szy- much greater than the effort of Charlotte Wohlwend (Switzer- Desert Challenge - topped last mon Wasiak (Poland) crossed Ahmed Shahrani, last placed la n d ). MTb - Mountainbike / Veteran Women Kids Race - boys U12 year’s record participation the line for third place. in 7:0 5:22. Ahmed becomes with 615 athletes from 51 dif- the first wheelchair athlete to The North Africans again 1.FONTANA BELENGUER Sara (Spain) 3:28:18 1.NAVERA Jared Benedict (Philippines) 0:05:27 ferent nationalities taking part Gombert commented: complete the challenge. dominated the desert run. Ab- 2.ALLEN Bec (Australia) +0:10:41 2.PESURNAY Aria (Indonesia) 0:06:25 in mountain bike and desert “The race was harder this year, derrahim Ghayour taking the 3.HAAGEN Rhonda (Canada) +1:19:09 3.HARDIANA Farrel (Indonesia) 0:06:49 running races across Khor Al but I adapted well and the ex- In his first year of bike rac- win for the second year in a Adaid. perience I have gained over ing, the 18-year-old Axel Dop- row, impressively adding only MTb - UCI C3 - Elite Men boys U16 the past years made the differ- fer (Germany) decisively led a minute to his time over the 1.GOMBERT Frédéric (France) 1:42:17 1.PRASETYO Aditya (Indonesia) 0:09:38 More than 300 competi- ence today. I am always keen the Open classification with longer course. Countryman 2.SIKOŠEK Gregor (Slovenia) +0:04:27 2.IHSAN Ameer (Singapore) 0:09:44 tors who travelled from coun- on taking part in this challenge a performance which would Houssine Lahdou was third 3.WASIAK Szymon (Poland) +0:12:31 3.BIN HASMIN Muhammad Iman Hafizi (Malaysia) tries like the Great Britain, to enjoy the good weather in have placed him fifth UCI but the Moroccans didn’t have 0:09:46 France, Australia, Ireland, Qatar during this time of the Elite. By his own admission, the entire podium to them- Elite Women Croatia and the USA, took part year compared to Europe. Dopfer went into the race with selves – Mohcine Zaytouni, 1.SUNDSTEDT Pia (Finland) 1:55:21 Girls U12 in the cycling events. some trepidation as the sand representing Qatar, occupied 2.GIOVANE Sophie (France) +0:25:37 1.MELVILLE Isla (Britain) 0:06:47 “I am getting ready for is not his natural territory. He the silver spot. Back to Mo- 3.SOSA Isora (Spain) +0:31:35 2.BACULAO Jameela Ashley (Philippines) 0:06:48 The Al Adaid Desert Chal- some tough races in France said, “I knew it was going to be rocco for the Women’s cham- 3. KHALIL Mona (Egypt) 0:09:00 lenge was organised by Qatar this season and I like to ex- a tough day in the saddle as I pion though with Zineb Karam Run - Open Men Cyclists in cooperation with plore different countries while usually stick to the road bike. beating two Brits; Daisy Baker 1.GHAYOUR Abderrahim (Morocco) 1:42:10 Girls U16 the Qatar National Tourism taking part in races around While it was indeed tough, I and Sophie Clarke. 2.ZAYTOUNI Mohcine (Qatar) +0:02:53 1. SAJEER KALANDAAN Rasha (India) 0:14:38 Council (QNTC) and the sup- the world. Khor Al Adaid is an can say with confidence that it 3.LAHDOU Houssine (Morocco) +0:05:55 2. STA ROSA Thea Marie (Philippines) 1:40:25 port of the Ministry of Culture area with a unique nature. I was one of the most enjoyable New for 20 20 ’s Al Adaid and Sports and the Qatar Cy- also like the fact that race al- ver medal. and rewarding races I have was the additional challenge cling and Triathlon Federa- lows me to compete against The event incorporates the ever done”. of an 8km run immediately tion. Sponsors which included cyclists from many different following the bike in the du- gold sponsors Doha Insur- nationalities, plus of course Qatar National Mountain Bike Mouchcine Rhaili (Mo- athlon category. Elite off-road ance Group, Doha Takaful the prize money this year, Championship. This year the rocco), who has dominated triathlon specialist Mehdi and Ooredoo, and official sup- which was good,” he added. riders occupying all three po- much of the road racing this Mersni put in a bike perfor- porters Chevrolet Qatar, Ra- dium spots had stepped up to year, settled for third place mance which would have sen Sports, Al Rayyan Water, One of the most notable the UCI Elite category. A new placed him highly in the MTB Doha Bus, Garmin Lingawi, performances of the day was generation of riders racing at competition and continued Mawater Qatar, Royal Rivi- from two-time Olympian Pia this level being a positive in- with a blistering run, only to era Hotel Doha, Qatar Red Sundstedt. Although this was dication of the development of find he had been misdirected. Crescent, Dama Sports Wear, her fifth win, it is surely ranked elite cycling in Qatar. In two of the most impressive offered a big support to the among the best with her over- displays of sportsmanship of even t . all fourth finish being just 30 Abdulla al Khater pulled the event, Mersni proceeded seconds off stealing a podium on the National Champion to chase back to within 90 sec- Frederic Gombert of position from the men. J ersey after two hours and 9 onds of Jan Woutters (Neth- France completed his hat- minutes of riding. He beat the erlands) who conceded the trick of Elite class wins this Pia describes herself as a title holder, Marwan al J al- win in recognition of a perfor- year. His light build proved a sand specialist, “I just let the ham, who had found himself mance which he felt deserved definite advantage over that of bike find its way and I find that losing the lead group after first place. larger, stronger riders on the balance being able to stay on some problems at the start. soft sand over the extended the bike even when you think Fadhel al Khater took bronze. The three leaders of the course of 40.5 kms which in- you will fall. It’s a special tech- Women’s duathlon were all cluded the tough task of cross- nique that I learned already as In all, 168 Qatari nation- in the veteran class: Andrea ing ten sand dunes on the way a child.” Sophie Giovane, trav- als completed the challenge Stadler (Ecuador), Daniela to the finish line. elling from southern France this year. An increase on last Sposi (GBR) and Govida Del- also found an improvement year and a reflection of the lomas (Philippines) all beating Gombert’s time of 1:42:17, in form this year, holding off strong and developing inter- their younger rivals. was eight minutes slower than Isora Sosa (Spain) for the sil- est in cycling and endurance last year’s despite more fa- sport. Endurance didn’t come al gharafa pull off dramatic Martin top in Moto2 test on Day win over al arabi cagers 2; Salac quickest in Moto3 TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK The Cheetahs to m in u t es. Doha clash with Rector got a double-double holders Al J ORGE Martin (Red Bull (24 points and 11 rebounds, KTM Ajo) went fastest with along with five steals. Centre some authority on Day 2 of Mohd Yousuf Mohammed se-

BREAKFAST WITH SPONSORS AND RIDERS A special event has been organized again this year bringing closer the Sponsors of the event and the preeminent riders: a breakfast at The St. Regis Doha where the social media of the sponsors along with their management had the opportunity to meet and discuss – while at the same time content was created for their social media platforms.

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORTAL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT 31









ANNOUNCING AL ADAID DESERT CHALLENGE 2021 6TH EDITION 26/02/2021S A V E T H E D A T E For more info check www.aladaid.qa

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2017 | EVENT REPORT AL ADAID DESERTCHALLENGE 2020 | RACE REPORT ON THE THRESHOLD OF AWESOME Our team has started with activities to organize one of the most anticipated mass start events in Qatar. This gives us great confidence but also responsibility to deliver what participants expect is an awesome event. The intensity of the work is always seen on weary faces on the finish line, gaunt from lack of sleep, haunted by endless tasks, by worst-case scenarios, and by the merciless passage of the hours. But all of this is rewarded by the weary but smiley, happy faces of competitors when they reach the finish line. I know then, from history, that our event will be OK. In fact, it will be awesome. It will be awesome because the work we do. It will be awesome because our supporters are some of the most generous and understanding and good-looking ������ people ever and they will forgive minor mistakes. It will be awesome because it has been getting more and more awesome every year since we started doing this. As importantly, it will be awesome because of our loyal participants, which come every year, spread the good word, and bring their friends and families to the most dashing place in Qatar – the dunes. ������ We are looking forward to welcoming you all at the 6th edition of Al Adaid Desert Challenge. Start training!!! Dr. Jamal Rashid Al Khanji Dr. Abdulaziz Alkuwari Managing Director Qatar Cyclists Director 37

AlAdaid Desert Challenge 2020 ORGANISATION MANAGING DIRECTOR QATAR CYCLISTS PRESIDENT OFFICIAL FACEBOOK PAGE Dr. Jamal Al-Khanji Dr. Abdulaziz Alkuwari fb.com/aladaid.qa Qatar Cyclist Centre DIRECTOR OF LOGISTICS AND EVENT SERVICES E: [email protected] Mr. Ali Al-Kuwari OFFICIAL INSTAGRAM Tel: +974 5588 7780 DIRECTOR OF SAFETY AND SECURITY instagram.com/aladaid.qa EVENT DIRECTOR Mr. Mohammed Ali Al-Kuwari Andrej Filip DIRECTOR OF MEDIA OFFICIAL WEB PAGE EMAIL E: [email protected] Mr. Ali Bin Towar Al Kuwari www.aladaid.qa [email protected] Tel: +974 3341 7990 DIRECTOR OF RUNNING EVENT CREATIVE DIRECTOR / Dr. Nasser Al Mohannadi OFFICIAL TIMING / RACE MANAGEMENT RACE MANAGEMENT SOLUTION MR. ABDELGHAFFER ABDELAZIZ racebase®pro · www.racebase.pro Tomislav Loncar Assistant Logistics E: [email protected] MR. MOHAMMED SABER ISMAIL timing / data processing / live results / GPS tracking Tel: +974 6688 2147 Assistant Logistics OPERATIONS DIRECTOR DESIGN (PRINT + DIGITAL) John Orville Bonalos Imagine Studio Ltd. E: [email protected] Tel: +974 7003 4024 OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPHERS Vedran Metelko, Roy Toth, Noel Ancheta, Manuel Abella, Reno Doctolero MEDIA SUPPORT SERVICES v 1.18