Keen cyclists are being encouraged to compete in the second event of the GO Sports Criterium Series which takes place this Saturday, March 22.

The Criterium Series has been designed to cater for the more experienced cyclists in the region, but it also offers an opportunity for beginners to test themselves and improve their fitness over the course of the series.

To be held at Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park in Dubai, there will be intermediate, young riders and advanced categories, with the race lasting one hour plus one lap around the 8km closed loop circuit.

For those of you who have never done a Criterium Series, this is something you will enjoy, says race organiser Gregor Csaicsich.

“This is a great way for people who have never done cycling to take up the sport. It’s not your usual cycling race. This is something that is enjoyable and challenging – and is open to people of all abilities whether you’re a beginner or not,” said Csaicsich.

Cyclists can take part in two categories – intermediate and young riders section or the advance-level category. The experienced cyclists will begin proceedings at 06:30, while the intermediate and young riders will commence their race at 07:45, with the event open to people aged 16 and over.

Although the series is formed of three races, people can still take part on Saturday even if they didn’t take part in the opener in February.

“We want as many people to turn up on the day with their bikes,” said Csaicsich. “It’s for beginners and professionals. Whether they want to improve their cycling or want to do something to get healthier this is the perfect thing to do.

“Even if they haven’t done the first one, they can still do the next two ones. It might be a bit difficult but the long term benefit is that we want them to do cycling and promote the sport and we think this is perfect to improve their fitness.”

If you’re keen to take part then you must register by visiting www. premieronline.com. You have to be quick though as the closing date for registrations is tomorrow (Wednesday, March 19).

Entry fee is Dh150 with prizes up for grabs in the following categories: fastest lap, sprint lap and most laps completed in the quickest time. The race will be timed so cyclists who takes part on Saturday and the final event of the series (on April 26), will be able to monitor their progression.

Event organisers Promoseven Sports Marketing believe that cycling has grown tremendously over the past few years, and events of this nature provide yet another opportunity for cyclists to enjoy their sport while improving their skills in the UAE.

What: GO Sports Criterium Series
Where: Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park in Dubai
When: Saturday, March 22
Contact: For information visit www.premieronline.com.