Sharjah hosted its first ever Spartan Race on Friday in Mleiha, attracting more than 10,000 visitors to the event.

In total, more than 2,400 participants from all across the globe took part in the race.

The Mleiha Spartan Race featured three main challenges, including the Spartan Beast, Spartan Spirit and Spartan Junior.

The Spartan Beast, held for the first time in the Middle East, is designed for professional and highly experienced athletes and adventurers. It includes a 20 km racetrack with more than 30 hard-hitting obstacles.

Marco Antonio Castro finished first in that ‘elite event, while Daoud Moustafa came second and Juan Carlos Lemus finished third.

In the female category, Amina Mhih finished first, followed by Angelique Chetanev who finished second and Sandra Chetanev Fuselier who came third.

“We were able to achieve something unique through the successful organisation of this race,” said Mahmoud Rashid Al Suwaidi, Manager of Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism.

“It’s unprecedented success bears testimony to Mleiha Archaeological and Ecotourism Project having emerged as a potential venue for hosting major sports events in the UAE”.

“Mleiha also serves as one of the most unique tourist destinations in the region, making it an exceptional place of interest.”