Arabian Warrior, the Middle East’s largest Obstacle Course Race (OCR) Series, has announced a landmark collaboration with the UAE School and University Sports Federation (UAESUSF), the UAE School Games team and the UAE University Games team, officially embedding OCR into the nation’s student games calendar.
At the heart of this initiative is the launch of the UAE School Games OCR Championship and the University Games OCR Championship – a youth and university-focused program designed to promote fitness, resilience, teamwork, and wellbeing among students across the UAE.
UAE School Games OCR Championship
Delivered in partnership with the UAE School Games team, this program is open to students aged 5–19 and includes:
● Primary Category (Ages 5–12): A fun, untimed 1–1.6K obstacle course encouraging participation and teamwork.
● Secondary Category (Ages 13–19): A competitive 5K race with official timing chips and age-group awards.
Regional events in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah will determine the top three male and female athletes in each secondary age group, who will then qualify for the Grand Finale in Ras Al Khaimah.
University Games OCR Championship
Delivered in partnership with the UAE University Games team, this championship offers university students across the nation the opportunity to compete at the highest level of obstacle course racing. Students will face a timed 5K OCR featuring functional fitness challenges and classic obstacles that test speed, endurance, agility, and teamwork. The top five male and female athletes from each regional qualifier will advance to the Ras Al Khaimah finale, racing for national recognition and university pride.
“Season 2 marks a turning point for Arabian Warrior. The launch of the UAE Schools OCR Championship and University OCR Championship allows us to inspire the next generation of athletes by embedding OCR within the national student games calendar. This is about more than racing – it’s about building resilience, teamwork, and confidence for the future,” said Nic Cartwright, Founder & Race Director, Arabian Warrior.
“This partnership with Arabian Warrior reflects our commitment to introducing innovative and engaging sports experiences for young people across the UAE. By bringing obstacle course racing into the School and University Games, we are not only expanding the range of opportunities for students to participate, but also inspiring them to challenge themselves, build resilience, and enjoy sport in new ways.” H.E. Sheikh Suhail bin Butti Al Maktoum, Assistant Undersecretary for the Sports Development and Competitiveness Sector at the Ministry of Sports and President of UAESUSF.
The launch of these championships represents a world-first in OCR history, setting a new benchmark for youth and university sport globally. Obstacle Course Racing has rapidly grown in popularity among Emiratis and UAE residents, combining physical challenge with teamwork, resilience, and fun.
