Dubai to host first Sandstorm challenge

Adventure race has varied terrain and distances

DUBAI // The UAE’s hardcore adventure race will be held this month, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, announced yesterday.

The inaugural event, named Sandstorm, will be held on January 27 at the Al Qudra Lakes, within Al Marmoum Conservation Reserve Dubai. The race is launched by Dubai Holding and Sheikh Hamdan, who has participated in obstacle races in the emirate.

Sandstorm, set across distances of 5 kilometres and 10km, features rocky, sandy, wet and muddy terrain and about 40 obstacles.

“Sandstorm is an exciting obstacle challenge that takes advantage of Dubai’s unique energy and landscapes,” said Ahmad bin Byat, vice chairman and managing director of Dubai Holding.

The top three finishers in the men, women, corporate teams and Emirati categories will be awarded prizes.

The UAE is no stranger to obstacle races – the Spartan Race was introduced in Dubai in 2015, and thousands have taken part in the annual Desert Warrior Challenge in Abu Dhabi.

Registration is open at www. sandstormdxb.ae.