Jabal Al Akhdar’s “Run & Explore” Trail Race Concludes with 610 Runners from 24 Nations

The third edition of the “Run & Explore” Trail Race concluded on Friday evening in the Wilayat of Al Jabal Al Akhdar, drawing 610 participants from 24 countries, including 450 adult runners and 160 junior competitors. The event brought together athletes, families, and adventure enthusiasts in a vibrant celebration of endurance, nature, and community — reinforcing Oman’s growing reputation as a regional hub for trail running and outdoor adventure.

Nestled over 2,000 metres above sea level, Jabal Al Akhdar — known as Oman’s “Green Mountain” — offers a refreshing escape with its cool climate, terraced farms, and dramatic canyons. The area is famous for its pomegranates, roses, apricots, and walnuts, which thrive in its fertile mountain soil. This unique environment creates an ideal backdrop for a summer-style trail race, blending sport, culture, and agriculture in a truly distinctive setting.

The 2025 edition featured three main distances — 30 km, 20 km, and 10 km — alongside a 4 km children’s race, designed to inspire the next generation of runners.

In the men’s 30 km race, Amjad Al Jamoudi (Oman) took first place with 2:53:57, followed by Saleh Al Saidi and Musa Al Subihi. In the women’s category, Amale Omari (France) led with 4:42:12, followed by Rahila Abdulameer (Iran) and Liang Hao (China).

In the 20 km race, Ghaith Al Saidi (Oman) finished first with 1:40:41, narrowly ahead of Nader Abdullah, with Aws Al Shabibi in third. Among women, Maryam Juma (Somalia) topped the category in 3:09:59, followed by Suad Al Nasibi (Oman) and Paula Hellmann (Brazil).

The 10 km race saw Yousif Al Naabi claim victory in 51:49, with Ahmed Al Fahdi and Yousif Al Subhi completing the podium. In the women’s field, Ghina Al Habbal (Lebanon) finished first in 1:17:22, followed by Zahra Ghasemi (Iran) and Anastasia Nazarova (Russia).

The junior 4 km race showcased promising local talent. In the girls’ division, Ahood Al Hinaei took first place in 17:24, followed by Maryam Al Riyami and Jinan Al Toobi. In the boys’ category, Mosab Al Oaimri triumphed with 14:51, ahead of Imad Al Hinaei and Mohammed Al Fahdi.

The “Run & Explore” Trail Race has become a key fixture in Oman’s sporting calendar and an important lead-up to the Himam Trail Run Race 2025, scheduled for December — one of the region’s most prestigious trail-running events. Beyond competition, the race highlights Al Jabal Al Akhdar’s tourism appeal, drawing visitors eager to explore its mountain villages, orchards, and ancient terrace farms.

The event also underlined the growing importance of sports tourism in the Sultanate — strengthening local businesses, promoting active lifestyles, and positioning Oman as a destination where sport and sustainability go hand in hand.

The winners’ ceremony was held under the patronage of H.E. Dr. Said bin Harib Al Lamki, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health for Health Affairs, who honoured the champions and praised the event’s organisation and community impact. He noted that such initiatives reflect Oman’s commitment to promoting wellness, connecting communities, and supporting tourism through outdoor recreation.