This week, a group of 50 UAE residents donned helmets to embark on a 300km cycling journey from Belgium to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands, as part of the Cycling4Gaza Challenge (C4G). The 2024 edition has attracted a record number of participants, with 100 cyclists assembling in Ghent, Belgium, for the four-day event that commenced on August 22. The primary goal this year is to raise Dh2.3 million for the UK-registered Ajyal Foundation for Education's project, 'Safe Spaces for Psychological First Aid and Socioemotional Support', aimed at providing comprehensive, context-specific interventions for children displaced in Gaza coping with war-related trauma and loss.
Tarek Jabi, a 35-year-old Dubai resident, first became aware of the challenge in 2017 and participated in a 400 km ride across Spain with 11 other UAE residents among a group of 40. Now, he serves as the designated community leader for the UAE in C4G, overseeing training plans, logistics, and community events for participants. Jabi, a Syrian-Canadian expat and senior HR partner at a pharmaceuticals company, expressed his commitment to the Palestinian cause through cycling. He highlighted the urgency to support Palestinians, especially in light of recent tragic events since October 7. Jabi's efforts in spreading awareness about the challenge since April have led to a significant increase in participant numbers from the UAE, reaching 50, the highest turnout yet.
The route chosen for the challenge is designed to be inclusive for cyclists of varying abilities, culminating at the ICJ to commemorate its historic ruling on the Gaza situation and to advocate for global action on behalf of the Palestinian people. The ride is divided into four groups based on experience and speed, accommodating both competitive and leisurely cyclists. Additionally, several stops are planned along the way for interactions with local communities, photography, and refreshment breaks.
Nelly Attar, a Lebanese mountaineer and public speaker, has joined the ride despite cycling not being her usual sport. She views sports as a powerful advocacy tool and is confident that their collective efforts will amplify the cause, raising awareness and funds for charities working in Gaza. Preparation for the challenge has seen participants cycling in the UAE's intense summer heat, with regular sessions on designated tracks and group strength and spin classes.
Haneen Alsliman, a newcomer to cycling, found the group sessions essential for learning key cycling skills and safety practices. She believes that sports can foster unity and bridge-building among people, making the C4G challenge a significant testament to this belief. Nour Hineidi, a Palestinian-Australian lawyer who completed her first C4G challenge in 2019, is also committed to raising awareness for organizations supporting Palestinians, particularly through the Ajyal Foundation's efforts in Gaza.
