Nocturnal marathon presents beauty of Wadi Rum under a full moon

AMMAN — The Wadi Rum Full Moon Desert Marathon, organised by Flashback Adventures, began eight years ago as an event staged by a couple of friends, but has since turned into an internationally recognised race.

“We started doing this because we had a passion for running and adventure sports, so naturally, when we started we hoped others would share this passion and join our events,” recalled Bishr Sakkal, one of the founders of Flashback Adventures. 

“What we didn’t anticipate was how much international recognition this event would achieve,” added Sakkal.

In addition to being listed by travel guide Lonely Planet as one of the top 1,000 adventures in the world, the marathon has also been ranked as one of the top 25 adventure marathons by the US Men’s Journal magazine.

The marathon has participants running through Wadi Rum under a full moon following a trail of torches set in the desert. The run ends with a bonfire party and camping.

In the initial stage, the marathon attracted amateur runners seeking a unique experience involving travel, camping and socialising in different corners of the Kingdom, according to Sakkal.

Gradually, as runners started spreading the word about the marathon and how it enabled them to experience “the magic of Wadi Rum” like they’ve never seen it before, it became an internationally acknowledged event.

For Sakkal, the race has things to offer to amateurs and professionals alike.

“Initially we contacted professional athletes to participate, and they, in turn, spread the word about the wonderful experience they had, and this helped attract even more runners, including those who are more interested in the fun element of the marathon, “he told The Jordan Times in a recent interview.

“Running or walking for 10 kilometres in Wadi Rum under a full moon is a remarkable experience where runners see for themselves why for years it has been called the Valley of the Moon.”

The marathon this year faces an additional challenge as Jordan’s tourism is impacted by regional turmoil, the co-founder notes.

“The Ministry of Tourism and the Jordan Tourism Board are aware of this marathon and we look forward to developing this awareness to a stronger support for us as we struggle to overcome the reluctance of visitors to come to Jordan in light of the problems in the region,” said Sakkal.

“We are especially thankful for the Tourism Police who have consistently supported us as they helped coordinate with other security agencies to make our events safe and enjoyable for all participants,” he adds.

The Full Moon Desert Marathon is scheduled for May 1 this year. More information is available on www.facebook.com/flashbackadventures?_rdr. 

“Our plan is to continue to organise original adventure events that create added incentive for people to visit Jordan’s many attractions. For example, many people have visited Wadi Rum, but not too many can say that they ran through it under a full moon,” Sakkal said.

“We hope many people will join us this year to show that Jordan is a safe and fun place where world-class events are being held.”