Qatar Airways flies world’s leading cyclists to Doha Wednesday, 01 February 2012 02:16

Melodia Lesuer of France team poses for a picture ahead of the Ladies Tour of Qatar which will begin today.

Doha: Qatar Airways is the Official Partner of the Tour of Qatar cycling event which attracting some of the world’s best cyclists.

The event, now in its 11th year,  attracts more than 200 international cyclists who will converge on Qatar for some fine racing that is expected to attract huge crowds lining the race route.

The nine-day Tour around the tiny Gulf state of Qatar will see the best male and female cyclists compete for the coveted titles.

In the men’s event, distinguished names such as world champion, Briton Mark Cavendish, Norway’s former world champion Thor Hushovd, defending champion Australian Mark Renshaw and Belgian racer Tom Boonen, winner of several Tour of Qatar races, will all be aiming high for the top prize.

Mark Cavendish will return to Doha to compete in the event for the fifth time with Swiss Olympic champion Fabian Cancellara also aiming for the winner’s jacket in Qatar.

In the women’s race, Kirsten Wild and defending champion Ellen Van Dijk, from Holland, will return to Qatar bidding for top honours.

The women’s tour will run from today to February 3, while the men will compete for the title from February 5 to 10.

Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said the airline was proud to be associated with one of the world’s leading cycling events in line with the country’s strong tradition to support leading sporting tournaments and events.

“For the past 11 years, this prestigious event has brought some of the world’s best male and female cyclists to our capital city of Doha for some fine racing over almost two weeks.

“We look forward to bringing our 5-star service to the athletes arriving in our city and we wish them all the best as the competition gets underway this week.”

Stages in the Men’s Tour of Qatar circuit are:

Stage 1: February 5: Barzan Towers – Doha Golf Club (142.5 km)

Stage 2: February 6: Lusail Circuit (team time-trial 11.3 km)

Stage 3: February 7: Dukhan – Al Gharafa Stadium (146.5 km)

Stage 4: February 8: Al Thakhira – Madinat Al Shamal (144 km)

Stage 5: February 9: Camel Race Track – Al Khor Corniche (160 km)

Stage 6: February 10: Sealine Beach Resort – Doha Corniche (120 km).the peninsula

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