Runners from 16 countries to take part in Oman Desert Marathon

Times News Service

MUSCAT: Extreme sports lovers from across the globe will descend on Oman when the sixth edition of Oman Desert Marathon, the ultimate desert race on earth, returns to the Sultanate in November this year.

The much looked forward to marathon is scheduled to take place from November 16 to 22.

According to the Oman Desert Marathon officials, the 165km race has been growing in popularity over the years and the 2018 edition will attract 150 runners from 16 countries, all of whom will be eagerly waiting to experience a unique adventure in the breathtaking terrain of the Oman desert.

Starting from the wilayat of Bidiyah in the North Sharqiyah governorate, the race comprises six stages of 28km, 20km, 27km, 28km, 42km and 23km and takes runners into the Sharqiyah Sands with a variety of landscapes, and dunes towards the Arabian Sea.

Said Mohammed Al-Hajri, general supervisor of the Oman Desert Marathon Organizing Committee, said, “The marathon is aimed at finding Oman on the international road map. This year, it has been adopted by the International Highland Racing Association (ITRA) as a well-defined and qualified race for UTMB races with four points.”

Al Hajri added that the participation increased from year to year, especially from outside the Sultanate because of the good and successful reputation of the previous versions.

“Such a significant increase in the number of participants could lead to the Sultanate hosting the largest events in the coming years,” he added.

The marathon is certainly different from the rest of the marathons because it will be fully in sand and not include any rocky or mountainous heights. The tracks are designed to be 100 per cent of sand dunes.

“As soon as the contestants arrive in Oman, they will enjoy a wonderful experience and will have the opportunity to discover Oman and its traditions,” he concluded.