Here’s your last chance to join the Spartan Race in Riyadh
It’s almost race day, but registration is still open until January 20. Are you up for the challenge?
Get ready to push your body to the limit on January 21.
That’s when Spartan, the world-famous obstacle course race, takes place in Saudi Arabia for the second time, following its debut in the mountains of Al-Soudah during the Asir Season in 2019.
This weekend’s course will span the terrain on the southern outskirts of Riyadh at Dirab Motor Park and promises an exciting, adrenaline-packed challenge.
Participants will have to battle the elements and their limitations to conquer this untamed arena. Expect all manner of obstacles, including mud, water, fire, and barbed wire.
Obstacle races for everyone
Six races will be staged during the day, giving people of all ages, genders, and fitness levels an opportunity to take part.
Spartan Sprint: The shortest course comprising two races – open sprint for males and females, and women’s only sprint. Both will take place over five kilometres, with 20 obstacles.
Spartan Super: Open to both males and females, it will take place over a 10 kilometres course, with 25 obstacles to overcome. The Super will test endurance, perseverance, and grit.
The Sprint and Super races are perfect for athletes of all levels, from Spartan first-timers to seasoned racers.
Spartan Kids: The kids’ race is dedicated to building a healthier future for the next generation. Open to both boys and girls, the race is divided into three age categories. The four- to six-year-old race will take place over 800 metres, with the seven- to nine-year-old race over 1.6 kilometres and the 10- to 14-year-old race over 3.2 kilometres. There are competitive and non-competitive heats in the older age group.
So, which Spartan Super category should you join?
Every Spartan races for different reasons. For some, it means competing at the highest athletic level or a way to get back into shape, while others like the social aspect. Regardless of your motivations, the race category options ensure you have the best experience possible.
Elite Super: These athletes compete to test themselves against the best of the best and rise to the top of the Spartan Race Point Series. If you have to ask yourself if you are elite, you probably aren’t.
Age Group Super: This category is a series of heats placed immediately after the Elite category. Age Group racers believe they could win or place in a given race when stacked against only the best of the best within their designated age group.
Open Super: The Open category is for everyone. Weekend warriors, novice athletes, first-time racers, and teams are all welcome here. The Open category offers the same opportunity as the Competitive and Elite categories to get far outside your comfort zone, test your body’s limits, and experience the incredible rush of the finish line. However, there’s no pressure to push your pace.
What to wear and bring?
Dress in performance gear. Think compression bottoms and breathable tops made from a water-wicking material, not cotton. Wear comfortable shoes that you’ve trained in or trail-running shoes with good traction. Beware, they are going to get dirty.
We also recommend carrying a hydration pack if you don’t want to depend on water stations to stay hydrated. Oh, and do pack a towel and a change of clothes.
But most importantly, enjoy the race. The best part? Each division will have its own winner, and each participant will receive an official medal and t-shirt provided by Spartan.
And if rolling in mud doesn’t sound like an ideal weekend activity, spectators are also invited to attend and watch the races while enjoying the event’s side activations and entertainment. See you there…
Spartan Race, Dirab Motor Park, Riyadh, Jan 21, 7am to 4pm. Price starts from SAR99 for Sprint, SAR119-229 for Super, and SAR45-55 for Kids’ races. Registration closes on Jan 20. Register here. @spartanarabia
Images: Social