Post by : Layla Badr
Dubai witnessed another thrilling chapter of its coolest sporting tradition as the 16th edition of the Ice Warrior Challenge took place yesterday at Ski Dubai. Organized in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the event brought together athletes of all ages and fitness levels who were eager to prove their strength and determination on one of the most unique obstacle courses in the world.
Inside the snowy indoor slopes of Ski Dubai, participants faced biting cold temperatures while overcoming 28 different obstacles. It was a true test of both body and mind, as every athlete battled icy climbs, crawled under barriers, balanced across beams, and sprinted through the freezing snow to reach the finish line.
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This year’s challenge attracted 560 athletes between the ages of 15 and 60, representing an impressive 69 different nationalities. Among them were 194 Emiratis, who joined the international competitors in taking on the snow-filled adventure. From first-timers to seasoned fitness enthusiasts, the Ice Warrior Challenge once again proved why it is one of the most eagerly awaited events on Dubai’s sporting calendar.
A Sporting Tradition Since 2010
Launched in 2010, the Ice Warrior Challenge quickly became a favorite among thrill-seekers and sports lovers in the UAE. The idea of running and competing on snow, right in the middle of the desert, is something truly unique that only Dubai can offer. Over the years, the event has grown bigger and better, attracting elite athletes from across the world while also welcoming everyday residents who simply want to challenge themselves.
The event is not just about competition; it is about community, fitness, and fun. It highlights the importance of active living while showing that sports can be adventurous and enjoyable. This strong mix of inclusivity and competition is what makes the Ice Warrior Challenge stand out.
The Challenge: 28 Obstacles in Sub-Zero Temperatures
The course designed for the 2025 edition featured 28 obstacles placed throughout Ski Dubai’s snowy landscape. Participants had to climb, crawl, push, pull, jump, and run through the cold terrain. With temperatures below zero degrees, the icy air and slippery ground made every task even tougher.
Obstacles included crawling under nets buried in snow, climbing steep icy walls, hauling weights through frosty tracks, and balancing across slippery beams. For many athletes, the hardest challenge was not just the physical strength required but also the mental determination to push through the cold and keep moving forward.
Despite the difficulty, participants described the event as exhilarating. The combination of teamwork, competition, and adrenaline made the challenge an unforgettable experience.
Elite Fitness Category Winners
The Elite Category featured some of the strongest and fittest athletes, both men and women, who were determined to set record times.
Men’s Elite Category
1st: Hallvard Borsheim with a finishing time of 00:31:02
2nd: Alisher Nazarov with a time of 00:36:29
3rd: Rich Zielinski with a time of 00:37:33
Women’s Elite Category
1st: Michala Radomska with a time of 00:56:04
2nd: Forough Shakiba with a time of 01:13:52
Individual Category Winners
The Individual Category highlighted athletes who took on the challenge alone, relying only on their own strength and stamina.
Men’s Individual Category
1st: Teo Zampa with a time of 00:18:35
2nd: Yeison Londono Franco with a time of 00:22:06
3rd: Shiva Shahi with a time of 00:22:50
Women’s Individual Category
1st: Hilda Allin with a time of 00:27:44
2nd: Natalie Mysheva with a time of 00:39:29
3rd: Nada Omar with a time of 00:40:37
Team Category Winners
The Ice Warrior Challenge is also about teamwork, and the Team Category allowed groups to compete together. This made the event not only a sporting contest but also a celebration of unity and cooperation.
1st: Carrefour Mall of the Emirates team with a time of 00:29:09
2nd: Gambit Communications team with a time of 00:31:23
3rd: Kebab Power team with a time of 00:33:00
More Than Just a Race
What makes the Ice Warrior Challenge so special is not just the competition, but also the sense of adventure and fun. For many participants, finishing the race itself is a huge achievement. The event brings together people from all walks of life – students, professionals, athletes, and families – to celebrate health, fitness, and community spirit.
The challenge is also a reminder that sports can be inclusive. With participants ranging from 15 to 60 years old, the event shows that fitness and fun know no age limit. First-timers, in particular, described the experience as unforgettable, while many have already promised to return for the next edition.
Partnership for Community Wellbeing
The Ice Warrior Challenge is a joint effort between Ski Dubai and the Dubai Sports Council, who have been partners in promoting active lifestyles and unique sporting opportunities. Their shared mission is to encourage people in Dubai to live healthier lives, stay active, and enjoy new experiences.
By hosting such innovative events, Ski Dubai and Dubai Sports Council continue to strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a hub for world-class sports and community events. Their work ensures that snow sports, once considered limited to cold countries, are now accessible to people of all ages right here in the UAE.
Sponsors Who Made It Possible
The 16th edition of the Ice Warrior Challenge was supported by a number of sponsors who played a vital role in bringing the event to life. These included VOX Cinemas, Yalla! Bowling, All Saints, Carrefour, lululemon, THAT Concept Store, Barebells, Garmin, Jetour, LightWhey, Mai Dubai, SKME, Star, Wellfit, and ZSI. Their partnership reflects the growing support for community sports and fitness in the region.
With each passing year, the Ice Warrior Challenge continues to grow in popularity and impact. It has become a symbol of Dubai’s unique approach to sports – blending fun, innovation, and competition. Athletes and fitness lovers from across the globe are already looking forward to the next edition, where new challenges and fresh victories will await.
For now, the winners of the 2025 challenge will enjoy their hard-earned titles, while every participant will cherish the memory of conquering the ice. Whether elite competitors or first-time challengers, they all share the pride of being true Ice Warriors.
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