The Muscat classic event in the Sultanate of Oman is set to be a thrilling cycling spectacle. Starting on Friday, it will be followed by the Tour of Oman 2024, which kicks off on Saturday and runs until February 14. This prestigious event will see the participation of 17 teams, each consisting of seven riders, representing renowned teams from Asia, Australia, Europe, and the US.
During a press conference to unveil the Tour of Oman and Muscat classic event, Said al Rashdi, Chairman of the Oman Cycling Association (OCA), expressed his excitement about welcoming everyone to Muscat. He extended his warm welcome to the participating teams from around the world, the international and domestic media, the ASO team, and the race officials. Al Rashdi also commended the technical team for their diligent efforts in selecting routes that showcase the race's challenges, the diversity of the topography, and the beauty of Oman.
The second edition of the Muscat Classic will commence on Friday, featuring a 174.3 km course. This one-day event is organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth in collaboration with the Oman Cycling Association (OCA) and various government and private entities. The race will start from Al Mouj Muscat and conclude in Al Bustan. Seventeen teams, including the Oman International team, will participate in this thrilling race.
The Sultanate of Oman is an ideal location for cycling events due to its strong and well-developed infrastructure. Riders are drawn to our country's top-notch facilities, which provide the perfect platform for competing at the highest level. The technicality of the Tour of Oman and Muscat Classic events has captured the attention of the world's best cyclists, enticing them to participate. The Muscat Classic, which precedes the Tour of Oman, is a new addition to the cycling calendar. Al Rashdi expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, particularly His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham al Said, for their support in renewing the contract with the organizing company (ASO) and the assistance provided by the undersecretary and other government entities.
Developing the cyclist
Yann Le Moenner, the CEO of ASO, stated that the 13th edition of Tour of Oman marks the beginning of a new era. He emphasized the strong partnership between ASO, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, and OCA. Expressing their delight to be in Oman, Le Moenner highlighted the event's primary objective of promoting and developing cycling sports in the Sultanate of Oman. Additionally, he mentioned that this year's race will showcase the national cycling team for the third time, following their intensive training camp in France last year. The team had undergone rigorous training and participated in competitive races to enhance their skills and performance.
Le Moenner further emphasized that cycling in Oman offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the country's beauty. He emphasized the importance of being present in Oman to empower and inspire young athletes for the future.
During the press meet, both local and international media were treated to a visual show, showcasing the best moments from 2023.
Preparations in full swing
Franck Perque, the Director of the Tour of Oman, stated that the race's technical team visited Oman in October and November. Their purpose was to plan the routes as part of the technical preparations for the event. They meticulously inspected all the selected routes prior to the race. In the first week of February, the technical team finalized the route setup, just one week before the event's commencement.
The Tour of Oman holds significant importance in the professional cycling calendar, attracting international riders who are eager to participate in this world-class cycling event. Oman's routes offer breathtaking landscapes and challenging climbs, making it an ideal destination for cyclists. Additionally, the current weather in the country is excellent, with temperatures perfectly suited for riders to come and join the Tour of Oman.
Perque concluded by mentioning that the top-ranking cyclists will compete for four jerseys: the red jersey for the General Individual Time Classification, the green jersey for the General Points Classification, the white jersey for the Best Young Rider Classification, and the golden jersey for the Most Aggressive Rider Classification.
