DOHA: The third stage of the four-day Ladies Tour of Qatar will kick off from Doha’s iconic tourist destination Souq Waqif, Qatar Cycling Federation (QCF) President said yesterday.
Sheikh Khalid bin Ali Al Thani said the 93.km stage will help live television capture the essence of Souq Waqif to a new audience around the world.
“I think our start from Souq Waqif will be interesting. It is a very popular area of the city.” Sheikh Khalid said.
Souq Waqif is renowned for selling traditional garments, spices, handicraft and souvenirs.
It is also home to dozens of restaurants serving cuisines from all over the world, as well as Shisha lounges.
Although this market dates back at least a hundred years, it was recently torn down and rebuilt in traditional architectural styles. It is now considered one of the top tourist destinations in Doha.
Thousands of people from across the region frequent this market to purchase traditional goods.
“We feel it is important to show this historical place to the media and the rest of the people. It will be a good start,” he added. “We are taking our race starts to spots where it is a busy place with people around. I think this year’s Souq Waqif start will be interesting,” the QCF president said.
Sheikh Khalid said the absence of defending champion Kirsten Wild of the Netherlands won’t impact the four-day race which begins today.
“Kisrten Wild is not here but the Tour is commanded by the wind. There are riders who can handle the wind like Wild. So she was winning because she has the experience,” Sheikh Khalid said.
“Now we may see new girls winning. I guess the ones who have been here may dominate since they have the experience of riding here,” he added.
Sheikh Khalid said QCF has no plans to increase the number of stages.
“At the moment the race will remain at four stages, at least until next year,” he said.
The Ladies Tour of Qatar - which precedes the men’s Tour of Qatar - is watched by an audience of millions around the world
“I don’t have the (TV) figures but ever since our races went live on beIN sports, we have reached far and wide,” Sheikh Khalid said.
“We know that highlight packages are important also and they are shown in Japan, the United States, Australia, South American countries and Europe as well. We know that our races are followed across many countries.
“The races are hugely popular in Europe,” he added.
THE PENINSULA
