Himam support extended to Oman’s Trail Running Champions

Oman’s trail running champions are poised to shine on the international stage as four exceptional athletes – Hamed Al Harthi, Hamdan Al Khatri, Issa Al Abri, and Mohammed Al Shizawi – prepare for the epic challenge of the 2023 UTMB® Mont Blanc event. This year’s race will see these exceptional runners from Oman compete across varying distances, embodying the nation’s spirit of endurance and adventure.

With the kick-off of the Omani runners’ respective distances set for 1 September 2023, these athletes are not only striving for performance goals but also proudly representing Oman on a global platform. The journey that awaits them is a physical one, but also a testament to the nation’s spirit and determination.

Hamed Al Harthi, speaking on behalf of the group, emphasized the honor of representing Oman at the UTMB® Mont Blanc: “We carry the heart of Oman with us as we prepare to embrace the challenges of this prestigious event. It’s not just about competing; it’s about showcasing determination and resilience.”

Al Harthi added, “We are immensely grateful for the support we receive from our technical team representing Himam Trail Run Race, Ahmed Al Fahdi, Ali Al Balushi, and Sultan Al Shereiqi. Their expertise in preparedness, diet, planning, and recovery are invaluable to our performance.”

Hamdan Al Khatri shared a sentiment echoing Hamed’s words: “Our participation in the global event is a testament to Oman’s growing prominence in the world of trail running. We are excited to showcase what we can achieve and push the boundaries on an international level.”

Oman has been witnessing a surge in popularity of trail running, attributed to the country’s abundance of natural and traditional trails that span its varied landscapes. The extensive Al Hajar mountain range, with peaks reaching up to 3,000 meters, offers a unique setting for trail enthusiasts. The diversity of terrains and captivating beauty of the Al Hajar Mountains have garnered attention from athletes and adventure seekers around the world.

In a unique synergy, the Himam Trail Run Race will also make its presence felt at the race village, inviting participants to partake in the event scheduled for 23 – 25 November. This race promises an array of distances – from the challenging 110km Al Hajar ULTRA to the Skyward Canyon 55KM, the Scenic Sprint 25KM, and family runs – across four distinct cities in Oman. The event is proudly supported by the Governor of Al Dhakhiliya and the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, reflecting its significance in promoting Oman’s diverse natural beauty and spirit of adventure.

The UTMB® Mont Blanc, scheduled from 28 August to 3 September 2023, will also include the first UTMB® World Series Finals. The event has seen a remarkable increase in applicants, with registrations crossing previous numbers.