Tanzania’s obstacle racing sport aims for Olympics

DAR ES SALAAM: A CALL has been made for Tanzanians to embrace and actively participate in the newly introduced international Obstacle Sports Adventure Racing.

The sport, which combines multiple disciplines, was recently launched in the country following the completion of the first Level 1 training course in Dar es Salaam over the weekend.

Obstacle Sports Adventure Racing, which has been gaining global traction, particularly in Europe, offers significant opportunities for Tanzanians to represent the nation in various international competitions, including the prestigious Olympic Games.

During practical training sessions held at Pande Game Reserve, Abdallah Chapa, Coordinator from Scope Event, highlighted the sport’s rising recognition and its potential to become a competitive fixture in the Olympics.

He encouraged athletes from diverse sports backgrounds—such as track and field, basketball and volleyball—to get involved. The sport features a range of challenges, including running through wilderness, crawling under nets and climbing trees with ropes.

Chapa noted that Tanzania boasts talented individuals who can excel in this sport if properly trained.

“We have the potential to win medals in this sport and we are training coaches and referees to ensure they understand the rules and can effectively prepare athletes for international competitions,” Chapa said.

He also expressed gratitude to sponsors, including Well Mark Legal, Kilimanjaro Fresh, The Green Sports Park, the Wildlife Management Authority (Tawa), Gulamali’s Stakhouse and Malt Cuisine, Rand Apartments and World Obstacle and Adventure Races, for supporting the training initiative.

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Kenyan fitness coach Ian Ochieng emphasised that this sport could enhance Africa’s chances of winning Olympic medals and urged thorough preparation for athletes.

Over 50 athletes from various sports, including track and field and basketball, participated in the three-day Level 1 Obstacle Sports Adventure Racing training course, conducted by Nayibe Statia from the Caribbean.

Activities at the Pande Game Reserve included track and field exercises, tree climbing with ropes and fence jumping.