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With excitement building in the final countdown to the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, its organisers, the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE (ATCUAE) have announced that Abu Dhabi Aviation will again be providing the most critical service for the entire rally – the aerial Search And Rescue (SAR) support.
An official sponsor of the Desert Challenge – one of the most physically and mentally challenging cross country rallies in the world – Abu Dhabi Aviation will be the sole provider of aircraft, pilots and logistical assistance, including four helicopters that will be used by a team of 10 trauma doctors and four search and rescue crewmen.
Taking place from 4-11 April deep in the Liwa Desert in the Western Region of Al Garbia, the 23rd Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge will test the limits of the world’s best rally drivers and riders.
The Middle East’s largest commercial helicopter operator, Abu Dhabi Aviation will provide the potentially life-saving aerial SAR support for the medical crews who, typically, are called to assist more than 10 per cent of all entrants during the course of the gruelling race.
Dr. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the ATCUAE, and founder of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge, said: “The Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is a true test of an individual’s physical and mental character. The Liwa Desert’s amazing terrain is addictive and few people who participate in the event can leave it behind. However the absence of civilisation and share remoteness mean there are dangers involved.”
“The safety of competitors, spectators, and organisers is always paramount, and more critical given the extreme environments encountered, which is why the aerial support that Abu Dhabi Aviation provides can be the difference between life and death. It’s advanced fleet of helicopters and skilled pilots ensure that the number of casualties is minimal and we are very grateful for their support again this year.”
Taking place under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region, the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge is part of the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies for cars and trucks, and the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship for bikes.
The final 287km leg of the hugely popular rally is named after Abu Dhabi Aviation, concluding five days of scintillating desert racing action. The ceremonial start and finish will take place at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit.
In addition to Abu Dhabi Aviation, the high-profile line-up of strategic partners and supporters of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge include the Diwan of the Ruler’s Representative for the Western Region, Abu Dhabi Motorsport Management, ADNOC, Nissan and Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara.
The event’s official itinerary begins with competitor documentation and an official press conference on Thursday 4 April, with scrutineering following the next day before a super special stage on 6 April leading to five days of competitive desert stages.
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