On the weekend of Saturday, 11th October and Sunday, 12th October 2025, the world’s leading obstacle course race (OCR), Spartan Middle East, will descend on Al Ain Zoo for a one-of-a-kind Trifecta Weekend. Set within the iconic wildlife park, this landmark event promises not only Spartan’s legendary physical challenges but also a backdrop filled with giraffes, elephants, and the natural wonder of one of the region’s most beloved destinations.
Across two adrenaline-packed days, racers will have the chance to tackle all three of Spartan’s signature race formats — Sprint, Super, and Beast — in both open and competitive heats. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or testing the waters for the first time, there’s a race designed for every fitness level:
- The Sprint 5K: A 5km course with 20 signature Spartan obstacles, perfect for beginners or anyone craving fast, gritty action.
- The Super 10K: A more demanding 10km with 25 obstacles, built to test your endurance, strength, and focus.
- The Beast 21K: A brutal 21km gauntlet featuring 30 punishing obstacles; Spartan’s ultimate test of grit and determination.
- Kids Race 1-3K: Specially designed for young Spartans, with age-based distances: 1km (ages 4-6), 1.5km (ages 7-9), and 3km (ages 9-14).
5 items you need for the Spartan Race
Completing all three adult races earns participants the coveted Spartan Trifecta – a medal of honor for those who crush the Sprint, Super, and Beast in a single calendar year. But this Trifecta Weekend goes a step further: racers can take on all three races in just one weekend, collecting not only individual wedges but a commemorative Trifecta medal too.
What truly sets this event apart is the venue itself. For the first time ever, a Spartan course will weave through the expansive grounds of Al Ain Zoo, combining nature and endurance like never before. Picture leaping over walls and crawling under barbed wire with the sounds of wildlife in the background – it’s a fusion of sport and safari that promises an unforgettable experience for both participants and spectators.
Organized with the support of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), this event builds on the UAE’s growing reputation as a global OCR hub. With the annual Spartan World Championship already a major success in Abu Dhabi – drawing over 6,000 athletes from around the world – the Al Ain Trifecta Weekend marks another bold chapter in the sport’s regional journey.
“We are incredibly excited to bring a full Trifecta Weekend to a venue as spectacular as Al Ain Zoo,” said Isla Watt, Director of Spartan Middle East. “The combination of our challenging races and this stunning natural environment creates a truly memorable event. We encourage participants and their families to make a weekend of it, explore the garden city of Al Ain, and experience a Spartan event like no other.”
