Muscat: The countdown to the second edition of the Himam Trail Run Race is on with over 420 runners from 30 countries preparing for a challenge that will put their trail running and endurance skills to the test. Taking center stage in Nizwa on 3rd December, the race is set to start in front of the Bait Al Rudaydah Castle in Birkat Al Mouz, where trail running enthusiasts and professionals will run one of three distances, 70km, 35km, or 20km in a route across Jabal Akhdar.
The ultimate 70km - the challenge is the most technical, presenting athletes with a daunting elevation of 2210m. The race then covers relatively flat ground to Wadi Al Mauydaen towards the middle point, Wadi Bani Habib, before starting the descent back to Birkat Al Mouz through Sayq and Sallut.
The distance is certified by the International Trail Running Association (ITRA), and is worth three ITRA points to each finisher. The first runner to finish the course will receive a prize of RO500, RO300 for the second, and RO150 for third. The first female finisher will receive RO150 and all runners completing the course within 18 hours will receive a medal.
The 2nd distance is an intermediate course that offers a carefully-considered route of 35km offering a variety of terrains and a comfortable descent to the finish line. The race follows the same route as the beginners’ race to the village of Al Muaydin and then climbs to reach Masirat Al Rawajih, a total elevation of 1050m before turning back and finishing in Birkat al Mouz.
All runners finishing within the eight-hour time limit will receive a medal. The third distance is the beginners’ race which has been designed for newcomers to trail running and runners aged 16 and over. The course covers 20km and an elevation of 350m through the old town of Birkat Al Mouz and lush date plantations nearby before following a wide wadi towards the mountains and passing through Tawi Saddah and the village of Al Muaydin before turning back towards Birkat Al Mouz.
All races begin at 6.15 am on Friday 3 December 2021. It is recommended that runners seek accommodation within the area. A number of options are available and the organizers have negotiated preferential rates for registered Himam Trail Run Race runners.
The Himam Trail Run Race is organised by Al Sahwa Team, under the umbrella of Nizwa Club. The event is also supported by Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) as main partner, Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, Oman Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and the Authority for SME Development (Riyada). The event will operate in accordance to the latest safety procedures as per guidance from the Ministry of Health and Supreme Committee. Masks are mandatory for spectators while in the start/finish areas and during the closing ceremony.
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