The fourth edition of the Spartan World Championship kicks off tomorrow in Al Wathba Desert

The fourth edition of the Spartan World Championship 2024 begins tomorrow, Thursday, 28 November. The event is organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Spartan, the internationally-renowned endurance sports and obstacle course brand, and continues until 1 December.

Elite professional athletes from around the world, juniors and qualified teams will be participating, alongside those competing in community races designated for different age groups. The Spartan World Championship is one of the most significant and largest competitive tests of physical fitness and ability, representing the world’s strongest obstacle courses. Organising this event marks a successful extension of plans to attract major international events that consolidate Abu Dhabi's position as a global sports destination.

The first day of the Championship features a new Ladies Only Night Sprint (5K + 20 Obstacles), allowing female athletes to compete in privacy amidst the sand dunes of the Al Wathba Desert.

On Friday, 29 November, another Night Sprint (5K + 20 Obstacles) will be held, allowing both men and women to compete in one of the most difficult stages of the tournament.

On 30 November, the Beast - 21K + 30 Obstacles (Elite and Age Group World Championship) challenge and the Kids’ Races (1-3K + Obstacles) will be held. The Championship concludes on Sunday, 1 December, with the 3K Team Relay (Elite Team Relay Championships), the Super Race (10K + 25 Obstacles), and the 5K Open Sprint.

This year’s Championship also includes a spectator area in the heart of the desert, enabling guests to experience the challenges and enjoy entertainment, as well as pavilions for various partners, supporters and sponsors amidst an unparalleled atmosphere.

Participants will also have the opportunity to visit the Sheikh Zayed Festival, which offers a rich and diverse range of entertainment, heritage, sports and cultural activities that bring together families, individuals, citizens, residents and tourists under a unified umbrella of fun and friendship, reflecting the spirit of tolerance and coexistence adopted by the UAE.

His Excellency Aref Hamad Al Awani, General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, welcomed participants from all over the world, anticipating a new fourth edition full of exciting competition, in light of the multiple races that provide the opportunity for everyone to join, regardless of their level of physical fitness. He specifically mentioned the Kids’ Races and the Ladies Only Night Sprint which would provide complete privacy for participants of various nationalities and backgrounds.

He also commented: “This is the fourth time that Abu Dhabi has hosted the tournament, which confirms our commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle and Abu Dhabi’s leadership as a global sports destination, as it has become a destination for various major international tournaments.”

Joe De Sena, Founder of Spartan, said: "The Spartan World Championship in Abu Dhabi is truly special. It's not just about the race; it's about experiencing the stunning desert landscapes, seeing camels in their natural habitat, and immersing yourself in a rich and welcoming culture. This fourth edition in Abu Dhabi is a testament to the professionalism and honor of working with ADSC, where everything is executed at the highest level. With participants from 80 countries, it's a global celebration of resilience and determination. And this year, for the first time in Abu Dhabi, we're proud to introduce a Women-Only Sprint—an empowering milestone in Spartan history."

The tournament is sponsored by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), Al Masaood Automobiles, Burjeel Holding, Al Ain Water, Nirvana Travel & Tourism, Tadweer Group, Al Wathba Desert Resort and Spa, Al Masaood Equipment Rental and Optimum Nutrition.