Manama, October 14 (BNA) The Bahrain International Circuit kicks off its first full season of the large-scale Batelco Fitness Championship next week, where runners and cyclists of all ages are invited to participate.
Fitness on Track is an opportunity for those looking to maintain or improve their fitness using the unique setting of the Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit.
Next week’s events are scheduled as follows:
• Tuesday October 19, 6pm to 10pm: (outside track for cyclists, indoor track: runners)
• Friday October 22, 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. (outside track for cyclists, indoor track: runners)
Sessions are open to runners and cyclists of all abilities to train or simply play casually in a safe and controlled environment in the ‘home of motorsports in the Middle East’.
Fitness on Track was tested last season by BIC, and generated a massive response from the local community, with dozens of citizens and residents of all ages participating – many of whom included entire families.
Commenting on the launch, Sherif Al Mahdi, Commercial Director of BIC said:
“Batelco Fitness on Track has proven to be one of our most popular new events and we are pleased to announce a full season of sessions, following previous full sale events. I thank Batelco for its continued support of this wonderful initiative, designed to encourage people in Bahrain to exercise in a safe and controlled environment Due to the popularity of past events, I would encourage those interested to pre-register on our website.”
Sheikh Badr bin Rashid Al Khalifa, General Manager of Corporate Communications and Sustainability at Batelco, said:
“Sustainability is a popular topic these days and Batelco’s focus on the environment is gaining momentum. We are very keen on nurturing eco-friendly behaviors while also supporting the community, and a great way to do that is to collaborate with the Bank Information Center to launch the new Fitness On Track season at the Formula Grand Prix circuit. 1″.
The initiative will encourage more people to take up cycling and adapt it to their daily lives. Studies have shown that if enough people switch to cycling rather than driving short distances, air quality can be improved because pedaling power generates zero carbon emissions. This falls within the framework of Batelco’s initiatives that support sustainability and society,” Sheikh Bader added.
Running and cycling take place on separate tracks, with runners and pedestrians using the 2,550-kilometre indoor track. Cyclists will be able to ride their bikes along the 3,543 kilometer BIC outdoor circuit, with a dedicated children’s cycling area.
On-site facilities include available food and beverage trucks, water stations, and a prayer area.
All those wishing to participate must pre-register and pay in advance on the official website of the Bahrain Information Center bahrainp.com. Participation costs BD2 for cyclists and BD1 for runners. Those under the age of 12 can participate for free if accompanied by a paying adult.
For more information on BIC’s Fitness on Track programme, visit bahraingp.com or call the department’s hotline at +973-17-450000.
AOQ