In a striking display of solidarity and endurance, a group of 50 UAE residents have embarked on a challenging 300-kilometre cycling journey from Belgium to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in The Hague, Netherlands.
This ambitious effort, known as the Cycling4Gaza Challenge (C4G), kicked off on August 22, 2024, and has set a new record with the largest number of participants to date.
The event aims to raise Dh2.3 million for the UK-registered Ajyal Foundation for Education’s ‘Safe Spaces for Psychological First Aid and Socioemotional Support’ project, which provides vital support to displaced children in Gaza grappling with trauma and loss from ongoing conflict.
A Ride with Purpose
The C4G challenge, now in its seventh year, has attracted an unprecedented 100 participants this year. The event began in the historic city of Ghent, Belgium, and spans four days, culminating at the ICJ in The Hague.
The ride serves not only as a physical test for the participants but also as a powerful statement of support for the Palestinian people.
Tarek Jabi, a 35-year-old Dubai resident, is the UAE’s community leader for this year’s challenge. Jabi first joined the event in 2017, cycling 400 km across Spain as part of a smaller group.
His passion for the cause and his dedication to increasing participation have been pivotal in this year’s record turnout.
“C4G is the perfect opportunity to combine my passion for the Palestinian cause with my love for cycling,” Jabi told Khaleej Times. His family’s migration story—from Palestine to Syria, Lebanon, and finally Canada—has deeply influenced his commitment to the cause.
“Given the tragic events since October 7, there has never been a more urgent time to make a difference for the Palestinians.”
Raising Awareness and Funds
The Ajyal Foundation’s project aims to provide holistic and context-specific interventions for children affected by the Gaza conflict.
The focus on psychological first aid and socioemotional support is critical, given the severe impact of war-related trauma on young minds.
By participating in C4G, cyclists are not only contributing financially but also raising awareness about the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
Jabi has been instrumental in mobilizing the UAE community, utilizing social media and organizing outreach events to boost participation.
His efforts have successfully increased the number of UAE participants from just three in the initial year to 50 this year, making it the largest UAE contingent in the challenge’s history.
A Route for All
The C4G route has been carefully planned to accommodate cyclists of varying abilities. It includes multiple groups based on experience level and average speed, ensuring that both seasoned riders and those less experienced can participate.
The journey features numerous stops for rest, food, and interaction with local communities, making it a comprehensive and inclusive event.
Lebanese mountaineer and public speaker Nelly Attar has joined this year’s ride, even though cycling is a new challenge for her. Attar, known for her advocacy through extreme sports, sees this as an opportunity to amplify the cause.
“While this isn’t a sport I regularly practice, sports have always been my most effective tool for advocacy. Together, we can raise greater awareness and crucial funds for the charities tirelessly working on the ground in Gaza,” she said.
Training Through the Heat
The participants’ training regime has been rigorous, particularly given the extreme summer temperatures in the UAE.
Many riders have prepared by cycling on tracks in Al Qudra and DxBike, while also engaging in group strength and spin classes. This preparation has been crucial in ensuring that they are ready for the demanding challenge ahead.
Haneen Alsliman, a 35-year-old digital marketing professional and newcomer to cycling, joined the challenge after learning about it recently.
She has found the group sessions invaluable for learning essential cycling skills and safety measures. “Training with the Dubai crew of C4G was a key part of my preparation. We were waking up before sunrise to get cycling in before the heat set in,” Alsliman said.
Unity Through Sport
Alsliman believes in the power of sport as a unifying force. “It can play a significant role in building bridges between people. This challenge is a testament to that,” she explained.
Nour Hineidi, a 38-year-old Palestinian-Australian lawyer who participated in her first C4G challenge in 2019, echoes this sentiment.
She is enthusiastic about contributing to the cause again this year, highlighting the importance of Ajyal Foundation’s work in providing mental and psychological support for children in Gaza.
“This is my way of offering support to the best of my ability. I’m excited to be back on my bike, reconnect with that mental resilience, and continue building relationships with people who share the same passion,” Hineidi said.
A Call for Global Action
The C4G challenge not only aims to raise significant funds but also seeks to draw global attention to the plight of Gaza’s children.
The chosen route and the timing of the event are strategic, with the culmination at the ICJ symbolizing a call for international action and justice for the Palestinian people.
The ICJ’s involvement and the route’s focus on the court emphasize the need for global solidarity and advocacy. The event is a platform for participants to demonstrate their commitment to the cause and to inspire others to take action.
Looking Ahead
As the cyclists make their way towards The Hague, their journey reflects a broader movement of solidarity and support for Gaza.
The C4G challenge exemplifies how individuals can come together to make a meaningful impact, combining their passion for sport with a dedication to humanitarian causes.
For many participants, this ride is not just about personal achievement but about contributing to a larger goal of providing relief and hope to those in desperate need.
As they pedal through Belgium and the Netherlands, their efforts are a powerful reminder of the global community’s capacity to effect change and support those affected by conflict and crisis.
The Cycling4Gaza Challenge continues to be a beacon of hope and solidarity, showcasing the strength and resilience of those who choose to ride for a cause greater than themselves.