Ski Dubai, in partnership with Dubai Sports Council, has announced the winners of the 16th edition of the Ice Warrior Challenge, an extreme obstacle race held in sub-zero conditions.
The event, which took place yesterday, attracted 560 competitors aged between 15 and 60. Athletes from 69 nationalities – including 194 Emiratis – tested their mental and physical endurance by taking on 28 obstacles inside the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort.
Since its launch in 2010, the Ice Warrior Challenge has grown into one of Dubai’s most popular sporting fixtures, blending fitness, fun, and the novelty of competing in snow within the desert.
Elite category
Norwegian athlete Hallvard Borsheim clinched victory in the men’s Elite Fitness category with an impressive time of 00:31:02. He was followed by Alisher Nazarov in second place (00:36:29) and Rich Zielinski in third (00:37:33).
In the women’s Elite Fitness race, Michala Radomska crossed the finish line first in 00:56:04, ahead of Forough Shakiba, who placed second with a time of 01:13:52.
Individual category
The Individual category saw some of the fastest times of the day. Teo Zampa emerged as the overall male winner, completing the course in just 00:18:35. He was joined on the podium by Yeison Londono Franco (00:22:06) and Shiva Shahi (00:22:50).
In the women’s division, Hilda Allin took first place in 00:27:44, followed by Natalie Mysheva (00:39:29) and Nada Omar (00:40:37).
Team category
Teamwork also had its moment in the spotlight, with the Carrefour Mall of the Emirates team securing first place with a time of 00:29:09. Gambit Communications came second (00:31:23), while Kebab Power took third (00:33:00).
Growing appeal
With competitors ranging from seasoned obstacle-course athletes to enthusiastic first-timers, the Ice Warrior Challenge has become a showcase of Dubai’s drive to promote active lifestyles and inclusive sporting culture. The unique environment of Ski Dubai – complete with artificial snow and icy terrain – makes the challenge unlike any other in the region.
As well as highlighting endurance, balance and teamwork, the event reinforces the city’s ambition to stage innovative competitions that appeal to both residents and international participants.
The challenge was supported by a number of sponsors, including Carrefour, lululemon, VOX Cinemas, Garmin, and Mai Dubai.
Commitment to community
Commenting on the event, organisers from Ski Dubai and Dubai Sports Council emphasised the importance of combining sport and community wellbeing. Their partnership continues to deliver distinctive sporting events aimed at encouraging residents and visitors to embrace active, healthier lifestyles.
With its mix of grit, camaraderie, and icy conditions, the 2025 Ice Warrior Challenge once again proved why it holds a unique place on Dubai’s sporting calendar.
