Hanoi:Visit Qatar, in partnership with the Qatar Challenge Racing Club (Samla), has announced the launch of the second edition of the Samla International Race. Registration is now open to male and female participants from around the world, with the event scheduled for January 23, 2027, between Sealine and Khor Al Adaid. This challenging endurance race is part of a three-year strategic partnership between the two organizations, spanning from 2027 to 2029.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Samla International Race will feature four endurance challenges swimming, off-road cycling, running, and kayaking, designed to test participants' stamina and skill. The race begins with a 3-kilometre swim, continues with a 21-kilometre run, followed by a 22-kilometre off-road cycling stage, a 4-kilometre kayaking challenge, another 22-kilometre off-road cycling stage, and concludes with a 28-kilometre run, totaling 100 kilometres.
Ahmad Al Binali, Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, expressed excitement about the long-term strategic partnership with the Qatar Challenge Racing Club. He emphasized the partnership's aim to develop the Samla International Race and enhance its presence on the international sporting stage, thereby supporting Qatar's position as a global destination for sports tourism and major events.
Azzam Abdulaziz Al Mannai, President of the Qatar Challenge Racing Club, highlighted the importance of the partnership, viewing it as a step towards developing the Samla International Race into an integrated sports and tourism platform. This would combine endurance, adventure, and competition while showcasing Qatar's unique landscapes and tourism offerings to a global audience.
The race offers a total prize pool of USD 600,000, with the first-place winner receiving USD 100,000. Second and third places will be awarded USD 60,000 and USD 40,000 respectively, and prizes for fourth to tenth places will range from USD 20,000 to USD 8,000. These prizes are intended to reward participants and encourage excellence in one of the region's most challenging races.
The Samla International Race is expected to enrich Qatar's sporting events calendar, further cementing its reputation as a global hub for sporting excellence.