Only 2 riders taking part to the Emirian Championships, which makes it the only H2H and smallest field for an NC. This year it will be raced in a pan flat route, in the whereabouts of Dubai. I’m sure we will see a non-completely boring racing. Yeah, in the last 300 meters that is. Actually, it will be nice to see a breakaway probably not winning this one.
In theory, Banihammad, is far more skilled than Khalifa, who having won it last year will wear his fancy Italian NC. However, in a Head-to-Head, anything can happen.
The 2 will just wait for the final kilometer as we thought…
…and when the time to decide who will stand on the podium has finally come, Khalifa (DeLaval) is the first one to attack. He is slightly faster than his compatriot, who seems to have gotten caught off guard when the National Champion makes a move.
When Banihammad (Indosat) starts his sprint it’s already too late, as Khalifa (DeLaval) had built a decent margin already.
Khalifa (DeLaval) is delighted to take the win and repeat last year’s success. Banihammad (Indosat) has the chance to beat him in the forthcoming TT though, which he won last year. Or will we see a double winner again?
The very same riders will also take part to the pan-flat Time Trial. Banihammad (Indosat) looks to be the clear favourite, not that there are many riders taking part.
Khalifa (DeLaval) starts first, and sets not too shabby times so far.
As predicted though, Banihammad (Indosat) is on another planet since the start.
Khalifa crosses the line in slightly less than 1 hour and 12 minutes. Not bad at all, he still could have won many NCs with that time.
It only takes 15 seconds more for Banihammad (Indosat) to cross the line with an astounding time. Great performance for him, who will ride TTs with his special jersey for at least another year.
