Sulayem sees bright future for UAE motocross

Sulayem, President of the UAE Motorcycle Club, the official representative in the Emirates of the FIM, said the creation of a regular motocross facility at the Al Ain Sportplex had been a crucial development, allowing a competitive and varied six-round series to be staged between three venues.

The DMX Club in Dubai, the Motorplex in Umm Al Quwain and the Al Ain Sportplex each staged two rounds of the 2006/ 2007 UAE National Motocross Championship. One of the highlights was the battle for the senior quads title, with Obaid Al Kutbi eventually edging out Mohammed Al Shamsi and Abdulla Nasser after a great tussle.

"The fact that we now have three tracks active in the UAE meant that a credible national championship was possible for the first time this year," said Sulayem. "Over the years the individual club championships have been well supported, but we badly needed a third track to provide stronger all-round challenge, and the facility at Al Ain has made all the difference.

"The winners in each category had to demonstrate their skills over a variety of tracks and conditions, so they were all worthy champions. We've made a good start, and the championship looks to have a bright future."