Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, ADNEC Group has officially announced the launch of the Challenge Sir Bani Yas Triathlon. This event will be the Middle East’s first long-distance triathlon, taking place on Sir Bani Yas Island from 3-7 April 2025.
The triathlon is set to become an annual event organized by ADNEC in partnership with Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Challenge Family, a global triathlon series active in 27 countries. With 35 races worldwide, the series involves over 75,000 athletes, and Challenge Sir Bani Yas is expected to draw 2,800 competitors and 1,500 spectators.
The long-distance race includes a 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike ride, and a 42.2 km run, spanning a 17-hour timeframe. Additionally, a middle-distance triathlon will be available, offering a 1.9 km swim, 90 km cycle, and a 21.1 km run. The event will also feature various community and sporting activities for participants and visitors.
His Excellency Arif Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, saying, “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.”
The triathlon underscores Abu Dhabi’s capability to host large-scale international sporting events, supporting the emirate’s vision of becoming a global sports hub.
“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,” Al Awani added.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, remarked, “The introduction of this race aligns with ADNEC Group’s strategy to cultivate and draw major international events across several crucial sectors. This endeavour is in accordance with the vision of the wise leadership, emphasising Abu Dhabi’s stature as the hub of specialised events in the region.”
Al Dhaheri further noted that the event aims to boost tourism and the local economy, showcasing Sir Bani Yas Island’s tourism potential. He added that hosting this triathlon will increase hotel occupancy and benefit small and medium enterprises in the region.
ADNEC’s collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council is vital to the event’s success, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s status as a premier sports tourism destination, attracting international athletes.
Challenge Family CEO, Jort Vlam, shared his excitement: “Ten years ago, we introduced international middle-distance races 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 to build the most sought-after triathlon festival in the world.”
In addition to the triathlon, the multi-day event will feature family-friendly activities such as horseback riding, snorkeling, and kayaking, making it a unique experience for athletes and their families.
For more information and registration details, visit www.challenge-sirbaniyas.com.
