400 cyclists from 30 countries took part in L’Etape Egypt, a 170 kilometre international race organized by the Tour de France in Sharm el-Sheikh at the end of September. The race marked Egypt’s first-ever appearance on the Tour de France amateur circuit. Cycling enthusiasts across Egypt hope the high-profile race can inspire a new generation of cyclists. “We enjoyed hosting one of the most important sporting events in the world in the field of cycling and we believe that this is just the beginning,” Ahmed Mostafa from Bike Zone Egypt told Egyptian Streets. Cyclists like Mostafa are on a mission to revitalize cycling in Egypt and bring it back to its former glory seen in the 1950s and 1960s. They believe cycling can help solve some of Egypt’s pressing issues like pollution and overpopulation, as well as encourage healthier and more environmentally friendly transport options. The race in Sharm el-Sheikh attracted cyclists all the way from Russia, Canada, and India. The scenic route, running from Sharm el-Sheikh to Dahab across the mountainous Sinai landscape, helped bring back the glamor of cycling to Egypt. Minister of Youth and Culture Ashraf Sobhy…
