Dubai Athlete Embarks on 10,000km Triathlon Challenge to Support Children Battling Cancer

Health, Wellness & Spa

Dubai Athlete Embarks on 10,000km Triathlon Challenge to Support Children Battling Cancer

Ghani Souleymane, a 42-year-old Dubai resident and Togolese national known for his extraordinary endurance, has launched an ambitious 100-day challenge to raise funds for children fighting cancer.

Beginning on Friday, August 8, at Kite Beach, Souleymane set out to complete 100 consecutive T100 triathlons in 100 days, a feat he describes as “extremely difficult but not impossible.” Each triathlon involves a 2km swim, 80km cycling, and an 18km run — totalling 10,000 kilometres for the challenge.

The daily swims will take place at Kite Beach, while cycling and running routes will cover different locations across Dubai. The event will conclude on November 16 at the T100 Race Village.

“This challenge is bigger than sport,” said Souleymane. “It will push me to my limits, but I want to show what is possible when you commit fully. I am doing this to help children and raise awareness for those battling cancer.”

The athlete will have to contend with muscle fatigue, joint strain, overuse injuries, and the region’s heat and humidity. To meet the demands, Souleymane starts each day early, completing the swim before moving on to cycling and running. Recovery and discipline, he says, will be key to sustaining the effort for 100 consecutive days.

He is inviting Dubai residents to join him at different stages of the challenge — whether for a swim, ride, or run — to show solidarity and support for the cause. “It’s about moving together and showing support for the children we are trying to help,” he said.

Souleymane, who works as a running specialist at Dubai’s Adidas flagship store, is no stranger to extreme endurance feats. In 2020, he was inducted into the Dubai Fitness Challenge Hall of Fame by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum after completing 30 ultramarathons in 30 days. He has also achieved 30 half-Ironman and 30 full-Ironman distances on consecutive days.

Funds raised will go towards initiatives that empower children through sport and provide assistance to those undergoing cancer treatment. “Every dirham will count,” Souleymane said. “This is for the children who need our help. If my effort can give them hope, it’s worth every step.”