Sharjah Hosts First-Ever ‘Ocean Man’ Championship, Welcoming Over 500 Swimmers from 62 Nations
Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: The Sharjah Government Media Bureau (SGMB) successfully concluded the emirate’s inaugural Ocean Man open-water swimming championship at Al Khan Beach, drawing over 2,500 spectators and more than 500 swimmers from 62 countries in a thrilling two-day event.
Held as part of the international Ocean Man race series, the event featured five race categories tailored for various ages and skill levels. From children to elite endurance athletes, the competition created a festive, inclusive atmosphere that transformed Al Khan Beach into a hub of sporting excitement.
The final day saw the highly anticipated 5 km Half Ocean Man race—the most popular category—and the grueling 10 km Ocean Man endurance challenge for seasoned swimmers. Day one opened with a 2 km sprint for amateurs, a 500-metre team relay, and the Ocean Kids race for children aged 7 to 14. Family-friendly activities and shoreline entertainment complemented the competitions, making the event a vibrant community affair.
Organisers placed strong emphasis on safety and accessibility, working closely with emergency response teams to ensure a secure environment, particularly for young participants in the Ocean Kids category.
The championship was made possible through the collaboration of numerous partners, including Sharjah Police, Sharjah Civil Defense, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, Sharjah Municipality, BEEAH Group, Zulal, and Zulekha Hospital, which served as the official medical partner.
The event marks a significant milestone in Sharjah’s growing sports tourism agenda and showcases the emirate’s readiness to host world-class international sporting events. SGMB officials hailed the success of the championship as a key addition to Sharjah’s annual sports calendar, reinforcing its commitment to community well-being and global sporting excellence.
