Sandstorm of fitness and fun at Al Qudra

The inaugural edition of Sandstorm, the UAE’s largest obstacle race, was held at Al Qudra Lakes in Dubai’s Al Marmoum Conservation Reserve yesterday. As an official qualifier for the 2017 Obstacle Course World Championships, Sandstorm saw more than 2,800 participants, ranging from amateurs to athletes. Two versions of the course featured more than 30 and 40 challenging obstacles for the 5km and 10km races, respectively, and spread over four terrains — rock, sand, water and mud. Racers climbed, crawled, ran and slid across a variety of obstacles. The obstacles featured in the challenge included Big Red, Monkey Business and Sandstorm Drop, three of the largest obstacles seen in a UAE race. Racers were encouraged to work together, while dedicated marshals ensured safety throughout the event. Staff

photographer Virendra Saklani captures the action.

Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, going through the paces at the Sandstorm Marmoum obstacle race at Al Qudra in Dubai yesterday.

Participants at the start of the obstacle race.

Participants had to run, climb, crawl and slide through a variety of obstacles across four terrains that tested their physical and mental strength.

Children try out their skills in the play area during the Sandstorm Marmoum obstacle race.

Participants’ physical and mental strength being tested.

Participants at the finish line during the Sandstorm race.

Participants dodge balls while going through the obstacles.

A participant clearing the last obstacle — a water slide.