Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (SIR BANI YAS)
Challenge Sir Bani Yas has made triathlon history as the first long-distance race in the Middle East. And while it was a landmark event for athletes from around the world, it proved to be just as inspiring for families who embraced the challenge together.
The second edition of Challenge Sir Bani Yas took place from January 30 to February 1, drawing more than 4,800 participants representing 93 nationalities, a 98% increase compared to the previous year. Forty-two nationalities joined the event for the first time.
The event was organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the Challenge Family, and supported by ADNOC.
Athletes competed across long-distance, middle-distance and Olympic-distance triathlons, with the Olympic format covering a total of 47.5 kilometres. While the main schedule focused on competitive racing, several parts were dedicated to families, offering activities for participants of all ages to get active, test their skills, and enjoy the experience against the backdrop of the Sir Bani Yas Island natural reserve.
“Hosting this event on Sir Bani Yas Island reflects our commitment to providing a unique experience that blends sports, nature, and sustainable tourism,” Rahma Almashjari, official spokesperson for Challenge Sir Bani Yas 2026 at ADNEC Group, told Aletihad.
“At ADNEC Group, we have made this year’s event more inclusive by enhancing the races for professional athletes, along with a wide range of activities for people of all ages and fitness levels,” Almashjari said.
For many families, taking part in the challenge was a core memory, with children playing sports alongside their siblings and parents amid stunning natural scenery.
Visitor Fatima Al Marzouqi praised the event’s diverse programme, highlighting that there was something for everyone to enjoy, whether participating in friendly competitions or cheering from the sidelines.
“Sports events like this bring families together, encourage movement and activity, and promote a healthy way of life that parents and children can enjoy and adopt together,” she added.
Another participant, Norliza Ishak, who came with her family from Malaysia, agreed that Challenge Sir Bani Yas stands out for its focus on inclusivity and wellbeing.
“This is a good event for children because, nowadays, they are always online, playing online games,” she said. “When there is an outdoor event like this, everyone participates, and the kids really enjoy the weather, being outside, and getting to know new people.”
It was Ishak’s second time taking part in the challenge, and she hopes to return for future editions with her family.
Even for elite athletes such as Khalifa Al Darmaki, the strong emphasis on family was a defining feature of the event.
“This is one of the events that truly enhances family presence. Beyond the race itself, there are community races, activities, and entertainment that allow the entire family to take part,” said Al Darmaki, a UAE national team athlete who previously held the record as the fastest Emirati in the Ironman Championship.
From the Cruise Ship to the Scenery
From its inclusive sporting programme to its location amid breathtaking natural landscapes, every detail of Challenge Sir Bani Yas was designed to create a memorable experience — one that participants and spectators alike said they would not forget.
The event seamlessly blended sports, nature and sustainable tourism. Alongside the races, visitors were offered the chance to enjoy a range of activities, including safari drives, guided nature walks, island biking and kayaking through mangrove lagoons.
One of the event’s most distinctive features was its fully integrated cruise ship concept, which allowed athletes and their families to travel to the island by sea.
Al Darmaki said: “Arriving by cruise ship from Abu Dhabi to the island makes it a complete family-friendly package.”
Emirati participant Amer Al Amri and his daughter Meera said they had a wonderful time during their one-of-a-kind onboard race experience.
“The daily plan shared with us was very clear, and both the activities on the cruise ship and on the island were well arranged,” Al Amri said. “We were honestly surprised by the level of preparation, and everyone was talking about how very good the organisation was.”
For Dubai-based couple Christopher Van Der Walt from South Africa and Katarina Kasova from Slovakia, the cruise ship option added convenience and ease to the experience.
With the ship serving as a floating race hub, athletes don’t have to worry about transporting bikes or equipment, Van Der Walt said. “All you have to do is focus on the race.”
Emirati participant Sheikha Al Nuaimi said it was the island setting that made all the difference.
“The place was extremely beautiful. I did not expect that when I arrived, I would see all of this, and it motivated me even more to take part in the race.”
Spending time on Sir Bani Yas Island ahead of race day added to her excitement. “I was very eager to run and experience the views again,” she said.
“Sir Bani Yas Island is known for its landscapes and wildlife,” Al Nuaimi added. “I learned that there are more than 17,000 free-roaming animals living on the island, and I was excited by the idea that I might see some of them while running.”
Already looking ahead, Al Nuaimi said she plans to return next year. “I want to encourage my friends and family to join me. It was truly a one-of-a-kind experience.”
