Bahrain Charity Wheelaton dazzles despite adverse conditions

Sakhir, Feb. 22 (BNA): Hundreds of people have braved strong winds and colder conditions in support of local charities at the charity wheelathon. While numbers were adversely affected by the unfavourable conditions, those who did make the effort were able to enjoy what many refer to as their favourite day of the year. Wheelchair users were able to interact alongside hundreds of cyclists while skateboarders and those on rollerblades also raced around the prestigious Formula One circuit at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). The Wheelathon wheeled into action at 2pm with the participants lined up along the F1 start line, eagerly awaiting the green light, before flying down the main straight, young legs pretending to be the next Lewis Hamilton or Fernando Alonso, while some enjoyed a more sedate pace. As temperatures rose, the numbers began to swell. Some took the time to engage in a quick pit stop, either getting their bikes fine-tuned by the Trilife expert mechanics, or changing their "wheels" and heading back onto the circuit on rollerblades, skateboards or other contraptions. The duathlon race kicked off in two phases. First off were the older children running their first leg of two kilometres, delighting in having the same F1 light procedures to set them on their way. Five minutes later the younger children were on their way with a 5.4km bike ride. The many spectators were then able to watch closely the exciting transition area as the runners and riders were able to improve their techniques under the friendly guidance of national coach and selector, Vicent Beltran, and Bahrain stalwart, Abbas. The duathletes received raucous support throughout from the crowd with the winner, Abdullah Attiya, crossing the line after a 2km run, 5.4km cycle, 2km run in a blistering time of 25 min 25 seconds. Bahrain newly appointed National Coach, Vicent Beltran, commented: “This was the perfect venue to host our first duathlon and all those who took part seemed to have a great time. I am proud of my team who showed their speed although we have also found some new talent. This is the first step as we aim to produce a Bahrain triathlete at the Olympic Games in 2020." Wheelathon Organiser David Axtell said: “These were some of the worst conditions we have experienced in all 11 years of the event, although ironically once the wind dropped and the sun came out it was close to perfect for the race.” “It is always heartwarming to be able to see wheelchair users participate on equal terms - this day is as much about bringing everybody together as it is raising money. The duathlon was a wonderful addition to the Wheelathon this year and it will produce a strong foundation for future events,” he said. “Following on from the success of Challenge Bahrain I had hoped to provide an opportunity for a wide range of youngsters to experience the thrills of a duathlon and learn about the transition between cycling and running. Hopefully the opportunity to do this in the perfect setting of the BIC was an added inspiration. My thanks to the Bahrain Triathlon Association for their support. Having so many elite cyclists flying around the track will set the standards for other competitive cyclists in the future, while having the professional technical support from TriLife was an added bonus. Countless individuals and families benefitted today from their expertise - service with a smile! My personal thanks also to the countless volunteers including the Filipino Mountain Bikers who kept everyone on-track and the medical team from the International Hospital,” he said.