More than 140 riders from around the world are competing HAIL: Spanish cyclist Oscar Pujol leads the field after the first stage of the inaugural Titan Series Saudi Arabia mountain bike race in Hail region. He finished 3 minutes 11 seconds ahead of fellow Spaniard Josep Betalú, with Julen Zubero completing a Spanish top three, 4 minutes and 18 seconds behind Pujol. Silvia Roura, also from Spain, opened up a commanding lead over her rivals in 13-rider woman’s race, finishing the stage more than 30 minutes clear. More than 140 riders from around the world are competing in the new event from the organizers of the established Titan Desert race. The Saudi event forms part of the Hail Season activities. The 89 kilometer opening stage started from the Millennium Hotel and wound through the desert towards Jaw’s campsite. It was the first of four daily stages covering a total distance of 366 km divided into four stages in the shadow of Aja Mountains. On Thursday, riders will tackle the second stage, which at 109 km is the longest of the race.