$10,000 Jebel Shams Challenge from April 19
One of the most sought after adventure events in Oman, the Jebel Shams Challenge, now in its third year is going big by tripling the overall prize money to US$10,000 aiming to attract over 400 participants from across the region and beyond.
The April 19-21 event, with the main challenge involving the 20km trek on April 20, has built a reputation for being a tough trek to the summit. However, there is a shorter trek for families with children under 16 years introduced this year.
“It's now the pre-eminent adventure event in the region, drawing adventure enthusiasts from across the GCC and beyond. After the success of the last two challenges, we’re redoubling our efforts this year and we expect this to be the largest and best one yet. Our aim is to get at least 400 participants, up from 250 the previous year,” Ali Husain, founder, Husaak Adventures, told Muscat Daily.
To make the event even more attractive, Husaak has made a few additions this year. “We’ve more than tripled the prize money from US$3,000 to US$10,000. The prize categories are still being finalised, but the first man and woman of any classification to reach the summit will get the larger share of the prize money,” said Husain.
Another new attraction this year is the addition of worldclass inspirational speakers who’ll be giving talks throughout the weekend, in addition to live music on both nights. “We’ve also introduced a new ‘Budget’ category priced at RO60 per person. This is targeted mainly for Omanis and residents of Oman who prefer to drive and camp themselves and just want to participate in the actual challenge.
“We continue to offer the two-night package to stay at the Sama Heights Resort Jebel Shams in one of three accommodation packages ranging from tents to luxury rooms (RO180 to RO280 per person).”
Husain added that the chal- lenge has always had a reputation for being a tough trek to the summit.
“At the same time, we’ve always encouraged everyone to come enjoy the weekend and see how far they can push themselves. This year, to encourage more families and younger adventurers to join, we’ve introduced a family category for those who would like to attempt reaching the halfway point with their children (under 16 years old) and will recognise them with a prize for reaching there first.”
Over the years, the Ministry of Tourism (MoT) has been providing support to promote adventure tourism in the country. “Our partnership with MoT continues this year. The ministry has been very supportive not only in this event, but in assisting us in our mission to make Oman the number one adventure travel destination not just in the region, but in the world,” said Husain.
With rising awareness and interest in such events, specially in Jebel Shams and the surrounding areas, Husaak has been working to introduce these to adventure seekers. “To that end, we’ve recently opened our second adventure centre in Oman right in Jebel Shams to cater to those already visiting the area year round.”
After the success of the last two challenges, we’re redoubling our efforts this year and we expect this to be the largest
Ali Husain