On August 24th, 2024, AlUla once again became the epicenter of an extraordinary endurance race, AlUla Desert Blaze. With runners from over 60 nationalities braving the scorching 45°C heat, this year’s race was a test of not just physical stamina, but also of spirit and resilience. The event featured four distances: 5km, 10km, a 21.1km half marathon, and a 42.2km full marathon, all set against the breathtaking landscape of AlUla’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Pre-Race Excitement and Kit Collection at Maraya
The race preparation kicked off with a gathering at Maraya on August 23rd for kit distribution and a comprehensive briefing session. Participants eagerly collected their race kits and took in the awe-inspiring surroundings of Maraya, the world’s largest mirrored building.
Race Day Unfolds
On August 24th, runners lined up at the start line located at Hegra South Gate. The race began with all distances starting simultaneously, creating an electrifying atmosphere of anticipation and camaraderie. From seasoned marathoners to enthusiastic first-timers, every participant was ready to take on the challenge.
The 5km and 10km races provided a quick yet intense experience, with runners navigating through the ancient trails surrounding Hegra. The half marathon and full marathon courses, however, truly tested the endurance of participants, with routes winding through the historic sites and across the expansive heritage roads.
After crossing the finish line, participants were welcomed into a lively event village where the celebrations continued. Arwin DJ set the tone with upbeat music, while runners enjoyed ice baths to cool down from the intense heat. A variety of food and refreshments were available, offering a well-deserved treat after a challenging race. To add to the fun, participants could also engage in lawn games, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated their achievements and fostered a sense of community.
Championing the Blaze: Top Finishers
The blazing heat did not deter the spirit of the runners, who pushed themselves to the limit to achieve remarkable results. Here are the top finishers across all categories:
5KM Female Champions:
1st: Hana Nimry (Jordan)
2nd: Sundus Alhawsawi (Saudi Arabia)
3rd: Angela Wober (Austria)
5KM Male Champions:
1st: Amin Abdullah (Niger)
2nd: Mohammed Omar (Nigeria)
3rd: Haiel Gebran Yahya (Saudi Arabia)
10KM Female Champions:
1st: Wafa Zaroual (Morocco)
2nd: Samar Jassim (Egypt)
3rd: Jade Palmer (Australia)
10KM Male Champions:
1st: Youssef Nasir (Morocco)
2nd: Bourhim El Bouzyry (Morocco)
3rd: Ali Alshahrani (Saudi Arabia)
Half Marathon 21.1KM Female Champions:
1st: Elfnesh Demise Amare (Ethiopia)
2nd: Arado Gulume Hailu (Ethiopia)
3rd: Welala Lemlem Girmay (Ethiopia)
Half Marathon 21.1KM Male Champions:
1st: Mickael Gasc (France)
2nd: Ahmad Yoosuf (Nigeria)
3rd: Sebr Saleh (Djibouti)
Full Marathon 42.2KM Female Champions:
1st: Eden Alemu Dadi (Ethiopia)
2nd: Bethlehem Nega Ferede (Ethiopia)
3rd: Tetiana Maltseva (Ukraine)
Full Marathon 42.2KM Male Champions:
1st: Chakib Lachgar (Spain)
2nd: Hamid El Janati (Morocco)
3rd: Dawit Gebreyes (Ethiopia)
A Race to Remember
AlUla Desert Blaze 2024 was more than just a race—it was a celebration of determination, unity, and the incredible landscapes of AlUla. Participants not only conquered the harsh desert conditions but also left with memories of running amidst some of the world’s most ancient and beautiful heritage sites.
As we reflect on the success of this year’s event, we are already looking forward to welcoming runners back to AlUla for another unforgettable journey through history and endurance. Stay tuned for more updates on future events, and start training for your next adventure with Race Arabia!
We extend our deepest gratitude to all the sponsors who played a pivotal role in making the AlUla Desert Blaze 2024 a phenomenal success! Your unwavering support and commitment were instrumental in bringing this challenging and exciting event to life. A special thank you to our event sponsors: AlUla Moments, Budget Saudi Arabia, Nova, CamelBak, Advsto, and Nougelato. Your contributions were vital in ensuring a memorable experience for all participants.
We also want to express our sincere appreciation to the dedicated organizers and volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth execution of the event. Your passion and hard work did not go unnoticed!
Lastly, a special thank you to the Royal Commission for AlUla for their incredible support and for providing such a stunning and historic opportunity for this race. Your efforts to preserve and promote AlUla's rich cultural heritage allowed us to offer a unique racing experience that participants will cherish forever.
Thank you all for being part of this extraordinary journey, and we look forward to more exciting events together!
Looking Forward to the Next Adventure
As AlUla Desert Blaze 2024 comes to a close, we are filled with anticipation and excitement for future races. Thank you to all who participated, supported, and cheered us on. We look forward to welcoming you back for more extraordinary races in the breathtaking landscapes of AlUla!
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