Telecom giant Dhiraagu has announced the third edition of 'Mamen Inter-School Cycling Championship' to be held this September.

The competition which is being organised by Dhiraagu, together with Bike Maldives, is open for registration. The third edition was originally scheduled to be held in 2020 but delayed due to Covid-19.

Speaking at the press conference on Thursday, Dhiraagu’s Assistant Manager – Brand, Naiya Shareef said Dhiraagu hopes to foster an interest for biking among young children through this competition.

She noted Bike Maldives' collaboration as the Development Partner in this competition, stating that Dhiraagu was delighted to have them as a partner in the event.

Bike Maldives' Chairperson Zuleikha Hassan Didi said the purpose of the competition was to encourage a healthy lifestyle among children through biking and to introduce a carbon neutral mode of travel to the children.

"We hope that cycling becomes the primary mode of transportation in Male' City", Zuleikha said. She also noted that Bike Maldives is a member of the Union Cycle International (UCI), and that she hopes young children get more opportunities to partake in cycling events abroad.

Mamen Inter-School Cycling Championship is set to to be held on 17 September at the cycling track in Hulhumale' Phase II. Registrations will close on 8 September, and Google forms for registration will be available from the schools and Dhiraagu and Bike Maldives social media.

The one-day tournament will have 10 events:

  • Under 11 – 1000m Fun Ride
  • Under 13 – 200m Sprint
  • Under 13 – 1000m Sprint
  • Under 15 – 200m Sprint
  • Under 15 – 1000m Sprint
  • Under 17 – 200m Sprint
  • Under 17 – 3000m Ride
  • Under 19 – 200m Sprint
  • Under 19 – 3000m Ride
  • 3000m Team Pursuit

Both male and female winners will be selected among the categories except the 1000m Fun Ride.

Dhiraagu said the telecom giant is committed to promoting and supporting community based events to enhance school children's experiences.