UAE fitness fanatics and thrill-seekers have a new challenge to gear up for as The North Face Night Rock Run returns on Friday, May 1.

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Beginning at 19:00, experienced and first-time trail runners will tackle the winding wadis, dirt tracks and tough ridges of the Wadi Al Shawka course in Ras Al Khaimah.

With 5, 10 and 15km distances to choose, it’s an event that is open to people of all abilities. And with it being a timed but non-competitive race, it promises to be an exciting challenge.

While road runs are highly popular around the world, trail running in the UAE is continuing to increase which is no surprise given there are some stunning locations in the country.

Last year’s edition was deemed a huge success as all spots were filled up quickly, and next month’s looks set to be even bigger and better.

The world’s leading outdoor and adventure brand – The North Face – has teamed up with local events company Urban-Ultra to organise the event in response to a growing demand following the success in 2014.

Miquel Pancorbo, COO of Sports Division, Gulf Marketing Group, said: “We were overwhelmed by the response to The North Face’s last event, which saw hundreds apply where we only had 50 spaces.

“This year, we’ve teamed up with event organiser Urban-Ultra to offer more spaces and three distances to make the sport more accessible to the wider local community. We’ve also made it an evening run to make the event more challenging.”

He added: “There is an insatiable demand in the UAE for trail running and ultra-fitness events, which is an extremely positive indicator of how the nation’s outlook on health and fitness is changing.”

If you are interested in competing, then hurry as the organisers have set a maximum of 500 places.

Entries cost Dh200 per person. Included in the fee is a head torch, The North Face T-shirt and a goody bag. Entry packs can be collected at The North Face store in Dubai Mall and Electra Sun and Sand Sports in Abu Dhabi.

What: The North Face Night Rock Run
Where: Wadi Al Shawka course in Ras Al Khaimah
When: Friday, May 1 from 19:00
Contact: For registration or more information, visit www.premieronline.com. Registration closes on April 25.