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CHARITY champions can once more race round Bahrain’s grand prix circuit on their bicycles just weeks before the big F1 race and raise much-needed funds for their good causes.
The 10th anniversary edition of the Wheelathon is set to attract even more big-hearted peddlers and supporters next Friday by allowing people to hire bikes on the day, should they choose to, rather than having to transport their own to the Bahrain International Circuit.
Organisers are also delighted to welcome the patronage of Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa giving the popular community event a royal seal of approval.
There are other changes too:
*In the past the event always pre-determined the charities – on this occasion the organisers will let the individual decide. Every person participating will be given the choice at registration and will be asked to nominate a preferred charity.
*There will be a large number of bikes for hire
* In the family entertainment area there will be disabled sports where able-bodied children will be given the opportunity to compete and see what it feels like – aimed at promoting harmony and understanding
* As part of the celebrations a minimum sponsorship level has been removed so that every fils counts!
The Wheelathon initiative was the brainchild of insurance businessman David Axtell, from Saar, who helps organise it with a committee of volunteers. He said: “It is an honour to have received the backing of Shaikh Khalid which we hope will attract the full backing of Bahrain’s companies and families to a much-loved occasion.
“I believe that the two main obstacles in the past have been the ability to get bikes to the track and setting a minimum sponsorship level.
“We have addressed both issues – by having a large number of bikes for all ages available then hopefully we will see a far larger crowd than normal and, while the aim is to raise money for charity, this year we will leave it to the conscience and ability of each individual to pay – while still incentivising larger donations.
“I receive countless compliments about the Wheelathon being the favourite event of the year for many families, which is always a wonderful accolade. However, the most important aspect for me is to witness the disabled athletes being able to participate on a ‘like-for-like’ basis and feel included in society.
“I am always grateful to the BIC’s management and staff for their assistance in making it such a fabulous occasion.”
The hire bikes come courtesy of Rider Zone, the first bicycle and equipment rental service in Bahrain. Its main office is located in Hidd, currently under renovation, and it has three branches, one in Prince Khalifa bin Salman Park in Hidd, another in Amwaj Island’s Lagoon and one in Durrat Al Bahrain.
Cecilia Pastera, Rider Zone’s operations manager, said: “The object of Rider Zone is that we wanted to create a healthier lifestyle for families, particularly kids. We found that there has been a lot of focus on indoor entertainment but we wanted to provide outdoor entertainment to help keep everyone active.
“We will be participating in the Wheelathon and we are looking forward to it. We will be providing bicycles free-of-charge for children from the age of two and above along with adults. That way everyone can take part.”
Over the years the Wheelathon has raised BD50,000 for local charities which includes good causes such as the RIA, Sneha, Think Pink and Bahrain Disabled Sports Federation.
Once again there will be a crazy hospital bed race, family entertainment and refreshments provided to entertain the crowds.
Medical assistance is being provided by Ibn Al Nafees and the IHB. GPIC and HSBC have provided a number of donations to encourage individuals to raise as much money as possible. And the Philippino Mountain Biker’s Association will be on hand to provide on-track guidance along with a large number of off-track volunteers from St Christopher’s Cathedral.
TIMETABLE
Wheelathon, Friday, March 15
Main track – 5.4km
Junior Track – 2.2km
Hospital bed race – 1pm
Wheelathon registration – 2pm
Open track – 2.30pm
Last lap – 5pm
Close track – 5.30pm
For further details contact David Axtell on 39432133
