Finding the venue
You need a hired assault course in the countryside. It should have a mix of natural and man-made obstacles, with walking sections between them.
When you visit, look for these things.
- A mix of natural and man-made obstacles
- Water you can wade through, but never swim
- Walking sections between obstacles
- On-site first aid and trained marshals
- A private, warm place to change
- Space for prayer, with water nearby for wudu (ritual washing before prayer)
- Shelter, toilets and parking for spectators
Tell the venue exactly what you plan. Long abayas, a heavy suitcase and a doll all change how an obstacle works. Ask them to walk the course with you and point out anything that could be unsafe.
Choosing the season and day
The challenge runs between April and late September. Each season has its own character.
| Time of year | Good for | Watch for |
|---|---|---|
| April to May | Mild days and long light | Cold water and very wet ground |
| June to August | Warmest water and longest days | Heat under full-length clothing and heavy loads |
| September | Mild air and soft light | Cooler evenings and shorter days |
Check your date against Ramadan, Eid and the school holidays. A day this hard does not suit a fast. A weekend usually works best for spectators and for children in school.
Booking
Book early, as good venues fill up. You will need places for sixteen participants, a minibus and a space for spectators. Agree the timings with the venue in writing, and confirm what insurance they hold.
What everyone wears
The women wear their favourite full-length abaya and hijab, just as they would for any day out. The son wears normal everyday clothes, not sportswear. Nobody should buy special clothes. Being unprepared is part of the point.
Safety note: footwear is the one place we do not follow that idea. Everyone needs closed, sturdy shoes with a good grip. Mud and wet ground make ankles easy to twist. Long hems can also catch on obstacles, so ask marshals to watch for them.
Wet fabric can cling and feel uncomfortable. Let each woman choose what she wears underneath, and make sure she has a private place to change afterwards.
Every person should also bring a full change of dry clothes, a towel and a bag for wet things.
Getting there
The four teams travel together by minibus. It is their first chance to meet, so choose your driver with care. Spectators make their own way, so send them clear directions and parking details.
Support people
A small group of helpers makes the day safe and smooth. Decide who does what well before the day.
| Role | What they do |
|---|---|
| Event lead | Keeps the plan, the timings and the people together |
| Minibus driver | Takes teams there and back, and stays on hand all day |
| First aider | Is on site and easy to find throughout |
| Marshals | Watch each obstacle and step in if anyone is at risk |
| Photographer | Takes photos only with agreed consent, as some women will want control of their image |
Children and spectators
The couple may have children of their own. Another family member can look after the younger ones while the team takes part. Older children and other relatives may come to watch.
Spectators cheer, but they never help. Give them a safe place to stand, a view of the course, shelter and somewhere to get a hot drink.
Organiser’s checklist
Before you move on, check you can tick off each of these.
- Venue visited and course walked
- Risk assessment agreed with the venue
- Insurance confirmed
- First aider and marshals booked
- Minibus and driver booked
- Private changing space and prayer space confirmed
- Date checked against Ramadan, Eid and school holidays