More than 5,000 ‘mudders’ came together as a team to conquer their fears and complete the region’s first ever Tough Mudder challenge in Dubai on Friday.

The global event proved its reputation as ‘probably the toughest event on the planet’, as first-timers and fitness fanatics alike helped each other round the 16 km and 8km obstacle courses filled with mud pits, ice baths and electric shocks.

The line-up featured some of most popular, challenging and fun obstacles from around the world, designed around the values of courage, personal accomplishment, teamwork and fun, including: ‘Arctic Enema 2.0’, ‘Everest 2.0’, ‘Electroshock Therapy’, ‘Hero Walls’, and ‘Block Ness Monster’.

Meanwhile, thrill-seeking kids aged 7-13 also got the chance to work as a team and experience the thrill of adventure at ‘du Mini Mudder’, a 1.5km obstacle course mud run designed for younger challengers.

Will Dean, CEO and founder, Tough Mudder said: “This weekend, thousands of UAE participants found out that the most difficult obstacles in life are best overcome together, and that’s the reason why this event has become such a global phenomenon.

“It’s been fantastic to witness so many people take part in the region’s first du Tough Mudder in Dubai and welcome the Middle East into our ever-growing global community.”

Greg Sproule, managing director of IMG Middle East, said: “The event has been a huge success with over 5,000 active, fun-seeking individuals taking part, and we are looking forward to welcoming even more Mudders and all of our Legionnaires – next year.”

The du Tough Mudder took place in the grounds of Hamdan Sports Complex.

reporters@khaleejtimes.com