TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK DOHA

IN what would be a major first for the riders, Qatar cyclists will hone their riding skills at night when the ongoing training camp in Slovenia extends into the holy month of Ramadan, officials and riders said from Slovenia on Wednesday.

“Yes, we will be training at midnight hours during the month of Ramadan,” Qatar coach Branko Filip said.

The Qatar squad left for Slovenia last week where it will attend a three-monthlong training camp. The 14- member squad includes nine riders and five officials.

“We are focusing on endurance riding during the first one month and a half,” Filip said. “Come Ramadan and we will switch over to night training so that the programme of the riders is not affected in any way,” he added.

“We have planned very carefully. We are looking at improving the mental and physical condition of the riders. We have some important events coming up this season,” he said.

The squad is expected to return to Doha in the first week of September, the coach said.

QCF Secretary-General Madjid al Naimi said in an earlier interview: “We want to be one of the best sides in the region. For that to happen, we have to train the right way and build a strong base for the riders. We are doing that. Hopefully, things will fall into place and the riders come back strong and confident after their summer camp.” Rider Moosa Khalfan said: “The squad is eager to start the training. We have set roles for each rider and our team is helping us in every way possible. We are confident that when we get back, we would have improved in every way a rider can get better. I am thankful to the QCF for their role in charting out this elaborate summer camp.” Fellow rider Ahmed El Bourdainy said: “We are training hard. The coach has given new impetus to our training methods.

Mental training is also a crucial aspect that we are currently working on. The coach gives time to every rider individually so that is a big positive.” Qatar cyclist Khaleel Abdul Janan said: “We are targeting Arab Cycling Championships. The coach is working very hard with all of us. We are enjoying this camp. The training here is helping us improve our overall fitness, something that we are set to achieve.”