Stage set for Oman’s first Xterra triathlon event to be held in Musandam

Gulf Today Report

The 2023 Xterra Musandam will go ahead as the first-ever full-distance off-road triathlon in the Middle East, as part of the global Xterra Series, which is considered the world’s No.1 off-road triathlon series.

Speaking during the lead-up to the event, Engineer Nassir Humaid Al Hosni, Director-General of Musandam Municipality and Spokesman of the Governorate of Musandam, stated: “The Governorate of Musandam’s decision to host this milestone sporting event for Oman reflects our alignment with the national priorities outlined in the Sultanate’s illustrious Vision 2040.

“Sports tourism in Oman is a sector that is increasingly set to drive economic diversification and other complementary fields, and our hosting of this event illustrates how partnerships between the government, civil society, and the private sector can effectively contribute to our country’s economy and global competitiveness, and to various fields of social development, including for the youth of Oman.”

Hosni also explained Musandam Municipality’s delight in being able to support and host this globally-renowned Xterra off-road triathlon event in 2023, stating: “Musandam Municipality has the modern infrastructure, human capital, and magnificent natural and cultural resources which can be leveraged to deliver exceptional sporting and adventure experiences. Very importantly, events like this provide an excellent boost to the local economy, and greater uptake for services provided by local SMEs”

For athletes taking part in the flagship full-distance event on Saturday, the 2023 Xterra Musandam promises a spectacular 1.5km open-ocean swim, 30km mountain-bike, and 10km trail-run, which take in much of Musandam’s rugged desert and mountain terrain that overlooks the area’s famous fjord-like Khors – where gigantic sea-cliffs drop down directly into the blue Sea of Oman waters.

Mohammed Bin Khalfan Al Obaidani – CEO & Founder, TRI.ME, explained: “Oman’s Musandam Peninsula forms the ultimate venue to host an event of this prominence and stature, which is globally recognized as the premium triathlon format off-road series. I am confident that following their first taste of the beauty of Musandam, they will vow to return in the future for more open ocean swimming, mountain-biking and trail-running adventures. In fact, our route developers have built a brand-new trail-run and mountain-bike route as part of the 2023 Xterra Musandam, which will remain in place for all endurance sport athletes and adventure fans, for whenever they return!”

The first day of the event will host the Xterra Kids Fun Run for boys and girls aged 4 years and over. Following this, on the second day, the 2023 Xterra Mussadam 21 km Trail Half Marathon and 10 km Trail Run will go ahead.

The 2023 Xterra Musandam carries a prize purse of $23,000.