A motorcyclist competing at Mount Korek in Erbil province on October 17, 2025. Photo: screengrab/Rudaw
ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The second edition of a motorbike competition was held Friday on the slopes of Mount Korek in Erbil province, bringing together riders and athletes from across the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and Iran for a day of adrenaline and skill.
The event, organized by the Iraq Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, featured both intermediate and professional levels, testing riders’ endurance and the power of their bikes on challenging obstacle courses.
“The competition has two levels: an intermediate level and a professional level. Those who are new to the intermediate level participate so they can prepare themselves and their bikes for a better level next year and coming years,” said organizer Marwan Masifi.
Located about 60 kilometers northeast of Erbil, Mount Korek is a popular tourist destination, particularly in winter for skiing and snowboarding. The motorbike competition has added a new thrill to the mountain’s attractions.
Thirty-four riders competed in the event. Marbut Rahmani from Jwanro in Iran claimed first place and Halabja’s Barez Rizgar took second.
“Within one hour, I was able to complete six laps and take first place,” Rahmani said.
“I came from martyred Halabja and thanks be to God I was able to take second place,” Rizgar told Rudaw, urging authorities to provide more support and dedicated training areas for bikers.
The competition drew a crowd of spectators.
“As a woman who loves this and knows about motorbike riding, I really enjoyed watching the performances,” said Samira Yahya.
Rawanduz tourism director Parez Yousuf said the growing professionalism of the competition has encouraged local authorities to plan an expansion.
“Gladly, this year is more professional and more skilled people participated. Our plan and program is to make it international in the coming years and attract more professional international motorbike riders,” he said.
Of the 34 participants, 10 were awarded championship titles by the federation, giving them the opportunity to compete in international championships.
Andam Jabar contributed to this report.
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