The Adnec Group has launched the Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon, the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region that will take place from April 3-7, 2025. Featuring 35 races, it will see the participation of 75,000 athletes.

The event, known for its stunning courses and iconic destinations, spans over 27 countries, and is set to be held annually through Adnec Group, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and in partnership with Challenge Family.

The inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas anticipates over 2,800 participants alongside 1,500 local and international visitors.

The long-distance event features swimming 3.8 km, cycling of 180 km and running 42.2 km. These challenges will unfold over a 17-hour period across different stages.

Additionally, a middle-distance triathlon has been offered, featuring a 1.9 km swim, a 90 km bike ride and a 21.1 km run. The event also includes various community, sports and tourism activities tailored for both participants and visitors.

Arif Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said: “We are delighted to partner with Adnec Group, offering comprehensive technical and logistical support to host the inaugural Challenge Sir Bani Yas.

“Our aim is to ensure the event reflects the emirate's esteemed reputation and stature at both regional and international levels."

"Organising these full distance races for the first time in the Middle East underscores Abu Dhabi's capacity to host large-scale international sporting events.

“It also aligns with our vision to establish Abu Dhabi as a global sports hub, in accordance with our strategic goals of solidifying the emirate's sports infrastructure and delivering a world-class experience for participants, spectators, and athletes' families alike."

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of Adnec Group, said: "Bani Yas Island was selected due to its tourism potential, advanced infrastructure, and exceptional location, all of which make it conducive to hosting this event successfully and optimising its execution.

Al Dhaheri said that these races are designed to showcase the tourism appeal of Sir Bani Yas Island and bolster the array of sporting events in the Al Dhafra region.

“This initiative is expected to augment both direct and indirect economic contributions to the area, boost hotel occupancy and reservations on the island and foster sustainable growth among small and medium enterprises across various sectors.

Jort Vlam, Challenge Family CEO, said: “Nowhere else in the world can athletes enjoy such an all-encompassing experience in such a spectacular setting with everything laid on for them and their families, thanks to the unrivalled Middle Eastern hospitality.

“Ten years ago, we introduced international middle distance to the region and now we are excited to return with the UAE’s first long distance race. We are looking forward to working with the local team and stakeholders, including the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, to together build the most sought-after triathlon festival in the world.”

The multi-day experience includes a host of community and family-friendly events that cater to all ages, including horseback rides within the island’s nature reserve snorkelling, scuba diving, and kayaking in the Al Dhafra Region’s vibrant waters. - TradeArabia News Service