The annual Esrar Race has become a platform to promote healthy and active lifestyle in Qatar, especially for the youth, Qatar’s Olympic champion and 2018 IAAF Athlete of the Year Mutaz Essa Barshim told Gulf Times.
“This is what I like, to inspire the youth and a lot of participants come even if it is Friday,” he said. “Normally people sleep at this time but they are here to support and take part in this race.”
Barshim stressed that Esrar Race is “very special” to him since it fosters sport and team spirit, as well as enjoyment.
He noted that the race, which features 21 obstacle courses this year, has attracted an increasing number of participants from across Qatar and neighbouring countries as well.
The event, organised by Aspire Zone Foundation’s and ‘Diverse’ sports management company, witnessed more than 500 contestants participating in the two day race at Aspire Park.
“I feel great, just being part of this event it is a big honour, the last time (first edition) we had like 180, now we are 500 plus and I am really happy about that,” Barshim pointed out.
“That is what we need as a society, to come and enjoy, do sport, it just for fun, it is not about winning, we are all winners today as long as you are enjoying and having fun, that is our message,” he said. “This is for our country.”
The race had welcomed people of different categories, including professionals who come to beat their time, according to Barshim. Pierre Daniel, a resident of Qatar who ran 475km around the country in seven days, echoed Barshim’s statement saying the race created different categories, giving “easy access for anyone who is willing to try.” He stressed that people should not believe that the race was only for the tough guys.
“There is enough for the tough guys to have their fun, but they (organisers) also made sure that it was accessible for people who just want to come and have fun and experience the obstacle races as well,” he told Gulf Times. About winning, Daniel said: “I’m not here for the win. I am very happy to finish having a medal, I enjoyed this great day, I see people having great fun.”
With 5km of 21 obstacles, he described the race as “very exciting and intense” and “it can really be tough if you want to go.”
“They made an amazing job this year, all the obstacles are like bigger and better, it look great and the attendance is fantastic,” Daniel said. “It is turning into a massive event, I think Qatar can be proud and the organiser of this race.”