The Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism Project is all set to make history with the World’s Best Obstacle race – Spartan Race. With 50% of registrations already sold out with only 10 weeks to go, the Spartan Race has gained tremendous year-on-year popularity in the UAE.
Hosted by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), and organised by the Spartan Race in partnership with Reebok and XDubai, the latest race edition in Mleiha is set to take over on November 18, 2016.
Having existed since the Palaeolithic Period, Mleiha is a symbol of unwavering strength and resilience, making it an ideal venue for the Spartan race. As thousands of participants run, climb, push, pull, throw and crawl through unknown terrain, they will simultaneously embark on a fascinating journey through 130 years of unspoiled Bedouin culture preserved in breath-taking natural landscapes.
Given these spectacular settings, it is only natural that the Spartan Race decided to up the ante. The 1st ever ‘Spartan Beast’ in the Middle East, and the most formidable of the Spartan Race series will be inaugurated at the Mleiha – Sharjah race. Aimed at seasoned athletes trained physically and mentally for tougher terrain and bigger obstacles, the Spartan Beast will be a true test of grit and inner strength as participants sign up for a 20+ km course dotted with more than 30 obstacles.
Additionally, the Spartan Race in partnership with Reebok will feature two categories including the most popular ‘Spartan Sprint’ and ‘Spartan Beast’, which are aimed at people of all endurances and abilities. Commenting on the flexibility and inclusive nature of the event, Mahmoud Deemas, Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism Project Manager remarked; “Over the years, the Spartan Race has proved to be fun, challenging and extremely rewarding for competitors. Since it is intended to test the perseverance and overall balance of an individual, participants can choose challenges according to their preferences and can lay down the gauntlet to their families, friends and colleagues with an offer of friendly competition.”
Highlighting that the future of a nation is as good as its youth, Mahmoud Rashid Deemas, Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism Project Manager, said; “The youth in any nation is its real wealth. That is why the UAE’s wise leadership has paid its young people particular attention, launching an array of initiatives such as the Spartan Race – activities that push them to their limits. This will aid comprehensive development in all aspects of UAE life, especially sports.”
Reiterating the fact that Sharjah has emerged as a venue of choice for prestigious international events, he added; “Hosting this global event emphasises, once more, that Sharjah has become a leading destination that hosts major events from around the world. It also highlights the fruitful efforts to enhance the position of the emirate on the global sports and leisure events map.”
Commenting on Sharjah as the next destination for the grand event, Rayyan Yacob Agha, Managing Director at Spartan Race said: “As organisers of the Spartan Race, it’s important for us to maintain the integrity and authenticity in the nature of sports we bring to our community and fans, by organising these events in the most unique destinations and environments worldwide. Choosing Sharjah as the next destination for the upcoming race event falls perfectly within these values, since the emirate truly emerged as the region’s most attractive destination for authentic and natural tourism. Sharjah is home to the Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism destination which, thanks to its remarkable and natural mountains, dunes and hills, supports the type of environment we want to deliver to all our participants to help them triumph in the races in the best and most premium standards.”
Online bookings for the Spartan Race is now open up and can be made through the event’s official website: www.spartanarabia.com.