Bahrain's Cycling Revolution Begins in Japan

Kingdom's track riders return from intensive 13-day camp as federation plots course toward Asian glory

TDT | Manama

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National cycling team has returned from a landmark training camp in Japan, completing a gruelling 13-day programme that officials say marks the foundation of the kingdom's first serious bid to compete at Asian and world track level.

Riders Mohammed Hassan and Hassan Thamer spent July 1 to 13 at the Shuzenji velodrome under the guidance of team captain Jassim Mohammed Hussein, putting in long hours across sprint work, race craft, fitness conditioning and track tactics.

The camp concluded with both Bahrainis lining up in a 200-metre sprint alongside cyclists from Saudi Arabia, Oman, China, Chinese Taipei and Japan—a significant international test for a programme still in its early stages of development.

Shaikh Dr Khalid bin Hamad bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, president of the Bahrain Cycling Association, described the camp as a cornerstone moment for the sport in the kingdom.

"Overseas training gives our riders the chance to work with specialist coaches, train at high-grade facilities and use modern track cycling equipment," he said, adding that such programmes were critical to preparing Bahraini cyclists for forthcoming Asian championships and international competitions.

He thanked HH Shaikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sport and president of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, along with committee staff for their support in securing the team's place at the camp.

The riders themselves said the experience had sharpened their technical understanding of track racing, teaching them to manage their effort, time their bursts of power and read the tactical nuances of velodrome competition. Training alongside athletes from several nations, they said, also raised their discipline and competitive awareness.

Captain Jassim said the programme blended the latest methods in track cycling, balancing technique, tactics and physical conditioning. He said both riders had applied themselves with discipline throughout.

"These camps give our cyclists direct access to high-level riders and coaches," he said. "They are essential to building a stronger base in track racing for Bahrain."

Mohammed Hassan and Hassan Thamer received participation certificates at the camp's closing ceremony. Captain Jassim was also recognised, and the Japanese hosts praised the Bahraini delegation's professionalism throughout the fortnight.

The association said the camp formed part of a broader strategy to develop younger cyclists and steadily raise Bahrain's profile in an increasingly competitive regional cycling scene.