A Proud Beginning Race in 1982
The Jordan Cycling Federation's journey began in 1982 with its first official event in Irbid, a vibrant city in northern Jordan. This milestone event marked the start of competitive cycling in the Kingdom, covering a challenging 22-km course that attracted a dedicated group of skilled cyclists. In the individual race category, Jihad Saqr claimed victory, with Ahmad Al-Badoor and Naeem Taher closely following in second and third places, respectively. The team race saw the “Mohammad Tareef” Al-Khayyat team clinching first place, featuring talented cyclists like Jihad Saqr, Tareq Al-Khayyat, Saad Al-Duwairi, and Mowafaq Sharara. This historic event highlighted the talent and team spirit driving the early days of Jordanian cycling and paved the way for a tradition of excellence. Other high-performing teams included Hussein Youth City Club, the Arab Scout Club, and the Arab Club.
Expansion Race in Amman 1983
In 1983, the Federation held its second major event in Amman, under the esteemed patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal. This event marked a significant expansion, covering a 70-km route and drawing 130 participants from across the country. Jihad Saqr triumphed once again, solidifying his place as a leading cyclist in Jordan, followed by other remarkable participants like Motab Al-Faouri (2nd place), Samer Hashem (3rd place), and Mowafaq Sharara (4th place). Familiar figures from the previous race, such as Tareq Al-Khayyat (9th place) and Ahmad Al-Badoor (5th place), reinforced their standing as pioneering athletes in Jordanian cycling history.
Towards the South Race in 1983
In the same year, the Federation expanded its activities to southern Jordan, hosting the third race in Aqaba, the country’s scenic port city. This event showcased the growing geographic reach and popularity of cycling across Jordan. The first-ever national cycling team was also formed, consisting of 12 top athletes from the Federation’s inaugural races. The team embarked on a training camp in Morocco, marking the start of international exposure for Jordanian cycling. Under the guidance of renowned Moroccan coach Belbouj Bouchaib, this endeavor laid the foundation for a new era of cycling excellence in Jordan.
Additionally, 1983 saw the establishment of the Tareef Al-Khayyat Cycling Club, the first specialized cycling club in the Arab world and the Middle East. The club launched its first race under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Hassan bin Talal on the University of Jordan campus, initiating a series of local and international events organized by the Jordan Cycling Federation and its affiliated clubs, including Tareef Club, the Arab Club, Mafraq Club, and Ma'an Club.
Legacy of Leadership: Presidents of the Jordan Cycling Federation
Throughout the years, the Jordan Cycling Federation has flourished under the leadership of distinguished presidents who have contributed significantly to the sport's growth. These visionary leaders include:
- Mr. Fayez Al-Rabiei, the Federation’s founding president.
- His Excellency Dr. Abdul Aziz Al-Khayyat.
- Mr. Mohammad Hamdan.
- Mr. Abdul Latif Murai.
- Mr. Issa Al-Na’ouri.
- Sheikh Hani Al-Hadid.
- Colonel Jamal Al-Faouri.
- Dr. Khalaf Al-Hashoush.
Together, these leaders have fostered the growth of cycling in Jordan, providing a well-organized platform for the nation’s athletes and setting the stage for a thriving competitive environment that continues to inspire generations of cyclists.