ROTA's 'Wheels 'n' Heels 2008' charity event a grand success

The event received a phenomenal level of support and participation from people of all walks of life in Qatar.

The charity event took place on February 1, 2008 in the Sheraton Park on the Doha Cornice and was graced by the presence of H.E. Sheikh Joaan Bin Hamad Al-Thani, H.E. Sheikha Sara Bint Hamad Al Thani and H.E. Sheikha Hind Bint Hamad Al Thani, who also participated by either walking or riding bicycles on 'The Circuit', which covered three kilometres.

An estimated 15,000 supporters, volunteers and participants were present at Wheels 'n' Heels 2008, the third in the series of annual events aimed at getting Doha's multinational communities outside and involved and raising awareness of a healthy lifestyle.

Organized in association with the Qatar Cycling Federation, Wheels 'n' Heels 2008 was triggered by the grand finale of the prestigious Tour of Qatar. In store on the day were a vast array of high-energy activities, interactive sports, fun games, staged entertainment and performances by renowned singers and dancers.

While the children enjoyed themselves by engaging in dancing classes from instructors in the specially designated Kids Zone, young and old alike, brought along skateboards, rollerblades, skates, scooters, bicycles and running shoes to make it a memorable day out with stunt cyclists and hip-street artists. The event also witnessed a live orchestra by ConocoPhillips.

Omnia Nour, Director of ROTA, said: "This third Wheels 'n' Heels community day was a great success, thanks mainly to the high-energy participation and support from the entire community. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to H.E. Sheikh Joan, H.E. Sheikha Mayassa, H.E. Sheikha Hind , Sheikha Sara and our board member Sheikha Aischa Al Thani. In addition to the celebrities and individuals for their generous support and participation. The sales of ROTA merchandise at the event also reflect the unprecedented level of involvement from people."

She added: "I would also like to thank Shell Qatar, our Platinum Sponsors, ConocoPhillips - our Gold Sponsors and Mannai Corporation, our Silver Sponsors, for their support and participation. This event would not have been such a success without their kind support."

Among the celebrities who graced the occasion were Belgian cycling legend Eddy Merckx, Dana Al Fardan, singers Ihab Tawfik, Raghda, Asalah, Angham, local TV personality Baba Linga, Basketball player Yassin Ismail, Footballers, Fabrício Eduardo Souza and Abdulaziz Al Anbari and Qatari sports icon Nada Zeidan.

A Lifestyle Village was also set up in the park to mark the event. The Village showcased myriad attractions for the entire family with side shows, demonstrations, corporate stands and bazaar-style stalls.

Reach Out To Asia envisage Wheels 'n' Heels 2009 to be even bigger and more successful judging by success and popularity of this year's event.