Chamonix: Five Omani runners have successfully completed the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (UTMB), an annual race held in Chamonix, France, that draws thousands of runners from around the world. Khalid Sulaiman Al Hatmi and Khusaif Marhoon Al Zakwani undertook the formidable challenge of the longest distance, covering 175 km. This route included an ascent of over 10,000 meters and spanned across France, Italy, and Switzerland before the runners returned to Chamonix.
According to Oman News Agency, the race also saw the participation of Yaqoub Khalfan Al Nadabi, Talal Hilal Al Mahrouqi, and Khalid Al Farsi, who completed the 100 km race. This segment of the event required runners to navigate an elevation gain of over 6,000 meters, testing their endurance and determination.
The UTMB race stages were marked by adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and temperatures dropping to around 4 degrees Celsius. These elements added to the complexity of the rugged mountain terrain, transforming trails into muddy streams and creating treacherous slopes for the participants.