The Cycling4Gaza Challenge (C4G) is an annual event where participants cycle 300km from Belgium to the International Court of Justice in The Hague, Netherlands. This year, 100 participants gathered in Ghent, Belgium, to raise Dh2.3 million for the Ajyal Foundation for Education’s project, providing interventions for displaced children in Gaza. Tarek Jabi, a senior HR partner in Dubai, is the community leader for the UAE, organizing logistics and training for the participants. The 50 UAE residents involved in this year’s challenge have been preparing for the ride since April, using social media and community outreach efforts to boost participation.
The ride is meant to draw attention to the situation in Gaza, with groups catering to cyclists of all abilities and speed levels. Lebanese mountaineer Nelly Attar, who typically focuses on extreme sports, has joined the challenge to raise awareness for Gaza. Preparation and training for the event have been ongoing, with participants riding in the UAE’s summer heat and organizing group strength and spin classes. Haneen Alsliman, a newcomer to cycling, has benefitted from the group sessions, learning crucial safety elements from experienced riders.
The C4G challenge serves as a vehicle for unity, bringing people together through sport to support a common cause. Participants like Nour Hineidi, a Palestinian-Australian lawyer, see this as an opportunity to offer support and raise awareness for organizations helping the people of Gaza. The focus on mental and psychological support for children in Gaza resonates deeply with Hineidi, who also values the mental resilience and clarity gained through cycling. The collective voices of the participants aim to amplify the cause and raise crucial funds for Gaza.
The ride culminates at the International Court of Justice in The Hague to celebrate its historic ruling on the situation in Gaza and to advocate for global action for the Palestinian people. Tarek Jabi, the UAE community leader, emphasizes the importance of the spotlight on Palestine and the urgency of making a difference in light of recent events. The diverse group of participants is determined to push themselves to their limits while also engaging with the communities they pass through along the way. The challenge represents a way for individuals to come together, support a cause, and build connections through shared passion and commitment.
