Registration is now open if you want to compete in UAE’s first trail running event on Saturday May 17, which is hosted by The North Face in partnership with Dubai Trail Running Group (DTRG).

The North Face Trail Running Event will be an opportunity to challenge yourself in the 12.5km course at Showka Dam near the Hajar mountains outside Dubai, under the guidance of seasoned trail runner, and founder of DTRG, Lee Harris.

“I started the (DTRG) group a couple of years ago and have been in this health and fitness industry all my life,” says Harris.

“I would say it’s a passion of mine. I competed in boxing when I was younger and I was always involved in sports. I got into ultra trail running a few years ago because I wanted a new challenge and I like the ultra trails mountain running.”

The event, to begin at 06:00, is open to those aged 18 and over, regardless of their fitness experience, says Harris.

“It’s for anyone who wants to get into shape.

“Basically, it’s for anyone who wants to change their life and want a challenge. The track is outside of the city in Dubai and you can forget about your work for the day. There will be no cars anywhere near the track, so you can run with a free mind. And you are going to get a really good workout that will surely test your body.”

Describing the course, Harris says the terrain will be a mix of both sand and landscape, which should test even the most hardened runners. 

“You will be out in the mountains and running on a single track as well as climbing over rocks. You won’t really be seeing any tarmac. The rocks will test your concentration as well as keep you on your toes,” says Harris.

The North Face, an American company, has sponsorship deals with professional athletes in running, climbing, skiing and snowboarding and are now keen to promote trail running in UAE.

Mohammad Baker, Deputy Chairman of Sun & Sand Sports, explained:  “We are pleased to be at the forefront of activating this exciting, dynamic new sport in the UAE under the guidance of Dubai Trail Running Group.

"We have partnered with them for the first edition of The North Face Trail Running event to encourage outdoor participation, and to get more active people, who enjoy a challenge, involved in the latest outdoor adventure sport to hit the region.”

Harris, delighted to be associated with the well-known outdoor apparel brand, added: “North Face came to me with this idea.

“They are a huge company and have got some huge runners in their entourage around the world. They got a lot of major trail events all around the world. Dubai has some of the best trailing tracks in the world and have a combination of desert and mountains, and they want to bring the trail running event to the UAE.”

Entry is free but places are limited, so participants are enrouraged to register quickly. All you need is a pair of running shoes, a hydration pack and a cap, while first aid officers will be available throughout the course and transport will be provided.

What: The North Face Trail Running Event 2014
When: Saturday May 17 at 06:00
Where: Showka Dam, Dubai
Contact: Register by email at sun&sandsports@fourcommunications.com or call 04 362 5129 for more information.