Alexander Kristoff: After successful Road World Championships for UAE Team Emirates riders, it's back to team duties
Each week a cyclist or member of UAE Team Emirates writes for The National, providing insight from the UCI World Tour and offering their thoughts on the season
Well, what an epic day of racing that was in Yorkshire. I think I have only just managed to dry my gear off after a brutally wet 2019 UCI Road World Championships!
Alejandro Valverde, who won the race last year, said “it was a World Championship for madmen”. I actually enjoyed it, so I’ll take his comment as a compliment!
Because of the severe weather conditions, the race route was shortened the night before to avoid the worst of the flooding. This eliminated two of the longer climbs: Buttertubs and Grinton Moor. This made the course harder for some riders, but suited me a lot more as two extra laps of the finishing circuit in Harrogate were added.
Of the initial 197 riders to start the race just 46 finished, which proves how bad the weather conditions were. Yorkshire has some of the world’s most complicated cycling terrain at the best of times. Throw in a bone-chilling cold and wet day with vast puddles and slippery corners to negotiate and you’ve got a very tough and technical race on your hands.
Despite the conditions and not having obtained a place on the podium, it was an all-round good performance from UAE Team Emirates riders, with three of us finishing in the top-20.
It always feels a little strange to compete against my usual teammates and friends but I’m happy to see that all the hard work we have put in over the course of the season has paid off and we looked strong.
As I said before the race, Rui Costa and Tadej Pogacar were ones to look out for. Costa’s experience proved invaluable as the Portuguese ex World Champ finished in the top-10. Pogacar showed real class and commitment and finished 18th in his first ever World Championship, which was also a fantastic effort.
Traditionally, it’s the smaller and lighter guys that prefer the hilly races, but because the World Championships took place in such cold weather it suited the bigger and stronger guys in the bunch. I said before the race that I liked them long so was a bit disappointed to see the race shortened to 261km. However, I am pleased with my performance after finishing seventh against a strong group in front.
A big congratulations goes to Mads Pedersen of Denmark, who produced an electrifying finish to claim the rainbow jersey. Pedersen is the youngest world champion in 20 years and the first Danish man to win the title. It’s an amazing achievement and continues the trend of the young guys killing it in the pro peloton.
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Behind-the-scenes at the Vuelta a Espana with UAE Team Emirates
UAE Team Emirates, led by Fabio Aru, at the start of the 2018 Vuelta a Espana. All images courtesy UAE Team Emirates
UAE Team Emirates sports director Matxin Fernandez with Sven Erik Bystrom and Vegard Stake Laengen after Bystrom finished second on Stage 18 of the Vuelta a Espana.
Matxin Fernandez with young cycling fans during the Vuelta a Espana.
Fabio Aru waves to the crowd after signing in ahead of Stage 20 in Andorra.
Dan Martin, who withdrew from the race with his wife due to give birth, signs autographs for fans.
UAE Team Emirates Simone Consonni with his bike ahead of a day of racing.
Sven Bystrom warms up on his bike ahead of a day of racing.
UAE Team Emirates in action during the Vuelta a Espana.
UAE Team Emirates in action while crossing through the mountains.
The UAE Team Emirates bus in position during the Vuelta a Espana
UAE Team Emirates sports director Maxtin Fernandez.
Sports director Philippe Mauduit delivers the team meeting ahead of Stage 20 in Andorra.
An aerial view of the UAE Team Emirates bus.
UAE Team Emirates rider Vegard Stake Laengen in action during the Vuelta a Espana.
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For the team, all eyes now look forward to the final Monument on the cycling calendar, Il Lombardia. This is one of the most beautiful races of the season. It is nicknamed "The Race of the Falling Leaves" due to its autumnal scheduling – and despite coming right at the end of the season, riders and fans love it because it’s full of great roads and incredible scenery.
Now in its 113th edition, the Tour of Lombardy runs from Bergamo to Como across 243km of climbs and ends with a 3km descent to the finish line. The length of the course would usually match my characteristics but the parcours of Lombardia are super hilly and not suited to a power sprinter, so it’s not one I ever get to race.
I think a couple of our riders have got a chance though: Daniel Martin won the race in 2014 and was in the top-10 last year. If he times his attack correctly then he could be on course for another podium finish. Costa took third place five years ago and as I said before the Worlds, should never be underestimated in these big races. Diego Ulissi is also going so well at the moment, he could be in with an outside chance if he can build on his brilliant performances in Quebec and Montreal.
For me, the next thing I am focused on is swapping the cold, damp and rainy weather in Europe for the sunshine of the UAE. Myself and the rest of the team are flying out at the end of the month for our end of season camp. It’s important we do this as we get to bond as a team and get to know our new team mates who will join us next season. It also means we get to meet our fans!
So, if you’re a fan or a cyclist in the UAE – keep your eyes peeled! You might just see us out riding on one of the many beautiful tracks you guys have in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Arrogate's winning run
1. Maiden Special Weight, Santa Anita Park, June 5, 2016
2. Allowance Optional Claiming, Santa Anita Park, June 24, 2016
3. Allowance Optional Claiming, Del Mar, August 4, 2016
4. Travers Stakes, Saratoga, August 27, 2016
5. Breeders' Cup Classic, Santa Anita Park, November 5, 2016
6. Pegasus World Cup, Gulfstream Park, January 28, 2017
7. Dubai World Cup, Meydan Racecourse, March 25, 2017
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
2:01:39: Eliud Kipchoge (KEN) on 16/9/19 in Berlin
2:02:57: Dennis Kimetto (KEN) on 28/09/2014 in Berlin
2:03:23: Wilson Kipsang (KEN) on 29/09/2013 in Berlin
2:03:38: Patrick Makau (KEN) on 25/09/2011 in Berlin
2:03:59: Haile Gebreselassie (ETH) on 28/09/2008 in Berlin
2:04:26: Haile Gebreselassie (ETH) on 30/09/2007 in Berlin
2:04:55: Paul Tergat (KEN) on 28/09/2003 in Berlin
2:05:38: Khalid Khannouchi (USA) 14/04/2002 in London
2:05:42: Khalid Khannouchi (USA) 24/10/1999 in Chicago
2:06:05: Ronaldo da Costa (BRA) 20/09/1998 in Berlin
The specs
Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo
Power: 398hp from 5,250rpm
Torque: 580Nm at 1,900-4,800rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed auto
Fuel economy, combined: 6.5L/100km
On sale: December
Price: From Dh330,000 (estimate)
5 of the most-popular Airbnb locations in Dubai
Bobby Grudziecki, chief operating officer of Frank Porter, identifies the five most popular areas in Dubai for those looking to make the most out of their properties and the rates owners can secure:
• Dubai Marina
The Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence are popular locations, says Mr Grudziecki, due to their closeness to the beach, restaurants and hotels.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh482 to Dh739
Two bedroom: Dh627 to Dh960
Three bedroom: Dh721 to Dh1,104
• Downtown
Within walking distance of the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and the famous fountains, this location combines business and leisure. “Sure it’s for tourists,” says Mr Grudziecki. “Though Downtown [still caters to business people] because it’s close to Dubai International Financial Centre."
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh497 to Dh772
Two bedroom: Dh646 to Dh1,003
Three bedroom: Dh743 to Dh1,154
• City Walk
The rising star of the Dubai property market, this area is lined with pristine sidewalks, boutiques and cafes and close to the new entertainment venue Coca Cola Arena. “Downtown and Marina are pretty much the same prices,” Mr Grudziecki says, “but City Walk is higher.”
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh524 to Dh809
Two bedroom: Dh682 to Dh1,052
Three bedroom: Dh784 to Dh1,210
• Jumeirah Lake Towers
Dubai Marina’s little brother JLT resides on the other side of Sheikh Zayed road but is still close enough to beachside outlets and attractions. The big selling point for Airbnb renters, however, is that “it’s cheaper than Dubai Marina”, Mr Grudziecki says.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh422 to Dh629
Two bedroom: Dh549 to Dh818
Three bedroom: Dh631 to Dh941
• Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah's proximity to luxury resorts is attractive, especially for big families, says Mr Grudziecki, as Airbnb renters can secure competitive rates on one of the world’s most famous tourist destinations.
Frank Porter’s average Airbnb rent:
One bedroom: Dh503 to Dh770
Two bedroom: Dh654 to Dh1,002
Three bedroom: Dh752 to Dh1,152
126: The length in metres of the legs supporting the structure
1 football pitch: The length of each permanent spoke is longer than a professional soccer pitch
16 A380 Airbuses: The equivalent weight of the wheel rim.
9,000 tonnes: The amount of steel used to construct the project.
5 tonnes: The weight of each permanent spoke that is holding the wheel rim in place
192: The amount of cable wires used to create the wheel. They measure a distance of 2,4000km in total, the equivalent of the distance between Dubai and Cairo.
MATCH INFO
Fixture: Ukraine v Portugal, Monday, 10.45pm (UAE)
TV: BeIN Sports
The rules on fostering in the UAE
A foster couple or family must:
be Muslim, Emirati and be residing in the UAE
not be younger than 25 years old
not have been convicted of offences or crimes involving moral turpitude
be free of infectious diseases or psychological and mental disorders
have the ability to support its members and the foster child financially
undertake to treat and raise the child in a proper manner and take care of his or her health and well-being
A single, divorced or widowed Muslim Emirati female, residing in the UAE may apply to foster a child if she is at least 30 years old and able to support the child financially
Key figures in the life of the fort
Sheikh Dhiyab bin Isa (ruled 1761-1793) Built Qasr Al Hosn as a watchtower to guard over the only freshwater well on Abu Dhabi island.
Sheikh Shakhbut bin Dhiyab (ruled 1793-1816) Expanded the tower into a small fort and transferred his ruling place of residence from Liwa Oasis to the fort on the island.
Sheikh Tahnoon bin Shakhbut (ruled 1818-1833) Expanded Qasr Al Hosn further as Abu Dhabi grew from a small village of palm huts to a town of more than 5,000 inhabitants.
Sheikh Khalifa bin Shakhbut (ruled 1833-1845) Repaired and fortified the fort.
Sheikh Saeed bin Tahnoon (ruled 1845-1855) Turned Qasr Al Hosn into a strong two-storied structure.
Sheikh Zayed bin Khalifa (ruled 1855-1909) Expanded Qasr Al Hosn further to reflect the emirate's increasing prominence.
Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan (ruled 1928-1966) Renovated and enlarged Qasr Al Hosn, adding a decorative arch and two new villas.
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan (ruled 1966-2004) Moved the royal residence to Al Manhal palace and kept his diwan at Qasr Al Hosn.
Draw for Presidents Cup fourball matches on Thursday (Internationals first mention). All times UAE:
02.32am (Thursday): Marc Leishman/Joaquin Niemann v Tiger Woods/Justin Thomas
02.47am (Thursday): Adam Hadwin/Im Sung-jae v Xander Schauffele/Patrick Cantlay
03.02am (Thursday): Adam Scott/An Byeong-hun v Bryson DeChambeau/Tony Finau
03.17am (Thursday): Hideki Matsuyama/CT Pan v Webb Simpson/Patrick Reed
03.32am (Thursday): Abraham Ancer/Louis Oosthuizen v Dustin Johnson/Gary Woodland
The specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo
Power: 261hp at 5,500rpm
Torque: 405Nm at 1,750-3,500rpm
Transmission: 9-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 6.9L/100km
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh117,059
Tightening the screw on rogue recruiters
The UAE overhauled the procedure to recruit housemaids and domestic workers with a law in 2017 to protect low-income labour from being exploited.
Only recruitment companies authorised by the government are permitted as part of Tadbeer, a network of labour ministry-regulated centres.
A contract must be drawn up for domestic workers, the wages and job offer clearly stating the nature of work.
The contract stating the wages, work entailed and accommodation must be sent to the employee in their home country before they depart for the UAE.
The contract will be signed by the employer and employee when the domestic worker arrives in the UAE.
Only recruitment agencies registered with the ministry can undertake recruitment and employment applications for domestic workers.
Penalties for illegal recruitment in the UAE include fines of up to Dh100,000 and imprisonment
But agents not authorised by the government sidestep the law by illegally getting women into the country on visit visas.
Small Victories: The True Story of Faith No More by Adrian Harte
Jawbone Press
RESULT
Manchester United 2 Tottenham Hotspur 1
Man United: Sanchez (24' ), Herrera (62')
Spurs: Alli (11')
Bio:
Favourite Quote: Prophet Mohammad's quotes There is reward for kindness to every living thing and A good man treats women with honour
Favourite Hobby: Serving poor people
Favourite Book: The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Favourite food: Fish and vegetables
Favourite place to visit: London
Frankenstein in Baghdad
Ahmed Saadawi
Penguin Press
UAE v Zimbabwe A
Results
Match 1 – UAE won by 4 wickets
Match 2 – UAE won by 5 wickets
Match 3 – UAE won by 25 runs
Match 4 – UAE won by 77 runs
Fixture
Match 5, Saturday, 9.30am start, ICC Academy, Dubai
One showed 28 per cent of female students at a Dubai university reported symptoms linked to depression. Another in Al Ain found 22.2 per cent of students had depressive symptoms - five times the global average.
It said the country has made strides to address mental health problems but said: “Our review highlights the overall prevalence of depressive symptoms and depression, which may long have been overlooked."
Prof Samir Al Adawi, of the department of behavioural medicine at Sultan Qaboos University in Oman, who was not involved in the study but is a recognised expert in the Gulf, said how mental health is discussed varies significantly between cultures and nationalities.
“The problem we have in the Gulf is the cross-cultural differences and how people articulate emotional distress," said Prof Al Adawi.
“Someone will say that I have physical complaints rather than emotional complaints. This is the major problem with any discussion around depression."
Daniel Bardsley
The burning issue
The internal combustion engine is facing a watershed moment – major manufacturer Volvo is to stop producing petroleum-powered vehicles by 2021 and countries in Europe, including the UK, have vowed to ban their sale before 2040. The National takes a look at the story of one of the most successful technologies of the last 100 years and how it has impacted life in the UAE.
