Are you ready to test your limits, crush obstacles, and join a tribe that celebrates grit over gravity? The Spartan Race is coming to Ljubljana, Slovenia, and for the first time, it’s launching a dedicated Para Spartan Division—an epic, adrenaline-fueled challenge designed for adaptive athletes of all abilities.

Event Details: Mark Your Calendar!

Date: 31 August 2025 at 4:00 PM

Location: Kongresni trg (Congress Square), Ljubljana, Slovenia

Cost: FREE (Thanks to Loterija Slovenije!)

Obstacles: 11 unique challenges tailored for wheelchair athletes—crafted to be demanding, empowering, and fun.

Companions: at least 2 companions required

Companions – Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

No Spartan runs alone. In the Para 2K, every athlete brings companions to support them on the course. At least two companions are required, and they must be arranged by the athlete themselves. For safety reasons, up to four companions are allowed per athlete.

You don’t need to submit companion names ahead of time. Instead, on race day, companions should arrive at registration together with the athlete. There they’ll complete a waiver and receive their official wristbands, which they must wear throughout the race.

If an athlete is unable to secure two companions, they can contact spartan-para@zsis.si at least two weeks before the event. Spartan ambassador Tanja will do her best to help connect them with volunteers. However, the responsibility for finding companions ultimately lies with the athlete.

Race Rules & Identification

The Para 2K follows the Open category rules, meaning all obstacles are mandatory. If an obstacle cannot be completed, the athlete must perform a penalty — most often lifting a sandbag overhead. In special cases, if a para-athlete is physically unable to do the penalty, one of their companions may step in and complete it on their behalf.

Upon registration, every athlete receives a headband with their race number and a timing chip. The number must always be visible, not only for identification during the race but also so you can later find your official photos. Companions will receive special wristbands to wear throughout the event. Please note that race numbers are personal and cannot be transferred.

At the finish line, every athlete can collect their medal and T-shirt right away. Podium winners (1st, 2nd, or 3rd in Age Group) must attend the official ceremony to claim their medals.

How to Register and Prepare

1. Register: Secure your spot in the Para Spartan division on the official Spartan Race Ljubljana website.
2. Find Your Squad: Remember, each athlete must be accompanied by two companions. Start planning your team early to ensure you have your support crew ready for race day.
3. Train Smart: Focus on upper body strength, grip endurance, and cardiovascular fitness. Remember, it’s about endurance, not just speed.
4. Plan Your Trip: Ljubljana is a beautiful, accessible city. Research accessible accommodations and transportation to make your adventure seamless.
5. Be Early, Be Ready: Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before your start time. This allows for a stress-free check-in, time to adapt to the vibrant atmosphere, and a proper warm-up.

Get Involved – Be Part of the Para Crew

Every Para 2K athlete needs two companions to take on the course – and this is your chance to step up.

No special skills are required. Just grit, heart, and the Spartan mindset. Organizers will guide you, match you with para-athletes, and provide everything you need. All you have to do is sign up, show up, and help a fellow warrior cross that finish line.

Sunday, August 31 at 4:00 PM
Spartan City Ljubljana – PARA 2K course

This isn’t just helping—it’s being part of something bigger.
Sign up now via email: spartan-para@zsis.si

Ready to Answer the Call?

Whether you’re a seasoned obstacle racer, a wheelchair athlete seeking a new challenge, or a supporter looking for a movement to cheer on – Para Spartan Race Ljubljana 2025 is where courage meets community in the heart of Europe.

Love adaptive obstacle challenges? Don’t miss our feature on Wheelmageddon—another epic event redefining inclusivity in adventure sports! Read the full story here.

So, are you ready to get Spartan Strong? Ljubljana is calling.

Photo credit: All photos in this article are courtesy of Spartan Race Slovenia.

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When the ordinary just won’t do, Wheelmageddon raises the bar—pushing limits, celebrating resilience, and redefining what’s possible. This off-road obstacle race for wheelchair users transforms ambition into action, delivering excitement, grit, and an undeniably inspiring experience.

A Vision of Possibility

Every challenge begins with a vision. Wheelmageddon, inspired by the classic Runmageddon and organized by Avalon Foundation, emerged from the Avalon Extreme project—an initiative rooted in inclusion through extreme sports. Since its debut in 2017, it has become a herald of empowerment for athletes of all abilities.

If you want a taste of the action, check out this video from the previous edition to see the mud, sweat, and cheers up close.

Wheelmageddon 2025 – When & Where

Mark your calendars:

• Date: Saturday, 20 September 2025
• Time: 10:00 – 18:00
• Location: Park Pięciu Sióstr, Warsaw (entrance via ul. Kopińska)
• Registration: HERE

Who Can Join? Categories

The event welcomes participants aged 18+ who hold a valid certificate of disability. Competitors may choose one of three categories based on their condition:

• OPEN – for participants who walk or have other types of disabilities
• PARA – for athletes with paraplegia
• TETRA – for athletes with tetraplegia

Course Format – Three Levels of Challenge

Wheelmageddon is structured into three progressively challenging courses. To advance to a higher level, participants must successfully complete the prior course:

1. FIGHTER (Blue) – beginner level
2. WARRIOR (Red) – intermediate level
3. HERO (Black) – advanced level

Each course includes 10 obstacles, such as crawling under lines, slaloming around flaming torches, pulling oneself up on a rope, pushing wheeled carts backwards, and more.
Participants must complete an entire course—including all obstacles—to qualify for the next one. Omission of even one task results in disqualification from progressing.

Rewards for the Best

Beyond the thrill of the race and the satisfaction of conquering extreme challenges, the top-performing competitors will also win cash prizes—a well-earned reward for their grit, determination, and skill.

Why It Stands Out

• Progressive structure ensures fairness and builds confidence step-by-step.
• Multiple disability categories ensure tailored competition and true inclusion.
• Obstacle variety and intensity provide not just a physical challenge, but a vivid, empowering experience.
• Prizes give an extra incentive to push for the podium.

Call to Action

If you’re ready for an adrenaline-fueled challenge, sign up today—places are limited, and this edition promises to be the most spectacular yet! And if you’re not competing, come along and cheer—there’s a chillout zone, family activities, and a vibrant community atmosphere waiting for you.

Photo credit: All images and videos used in this article belong to Avalon Foundation.

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Every November, one of the world’s most iconic roads transforms into a racetrack for tens of thousands of runners. Dubai Run 2024 brought that magic back with full force—and we were there to experience every high-energy, heartwarming moment of it.

What Is Dubai Run?

Part of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, the Dubai Run is a free, non-competitive event welcoming everyone—from elite runners to families, school kids, and people with disabilities. The main star of the day? Sheikh Zayed Road. For just a few hours a year, the city’s busiest highway becomes a pedestrian paradise lined with cheers, music, and smiles.

Signing Up – Easy and Free!

Registration for Dubai Run 2024 was completely free, and signing up online through the official Dubai Fitness Challenge website was quick and easy. During registration, participants could choose their preferred time slot, which helped stagger the start and manage the massive crowds. Once registered, you received a confirmation email, and then you had to pick up your physical bib number before the race day.

The Starting Pack – Simple Essentials, No Frills

There was no traditional goodie bag for Dubai Run 2024, and unlike some previous events, there was no race tracking this year—just a focus on participation and fun. However, picking up your physical bib number was mandatory, as there were no digital versions accepted on race day.

If you registered early or picked up your bib the day before the run, you were also eligible to receive the official Dubai Run 2024 t-shirt, handed out at the collection points while supplies lasted.

Route Options – Choose Your Challenge

Dubai Run 2024 offered two route options:

• 5 km – Perfect for families and casual runners.
• 10 km – For more experienced runners or those wanting a bigger challenge.

We took on the 10 km route, which gave us plenty of time to soak in the views and the atmosphere—despite the crowded start! The course took us past some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, including the Museum of the Future and Emirates Towers, with the Burj Khalifa rising majestically in the background the entire way.

The Energy at the Start Line

We signed up for the latest time slot (a little more sleep sounded great!). But, lesson learned—the later slots meant huge crowds, longer waiting times, and a delayed start. It took a while before we could even begin moving, and the density of people made progress slow, especially with a wheelchair.

If you’re planning to join next year—especially if you’re a disabled participant or accompanying someone who is—we strongly recommend choosing the earliest slot. It’s much cooler, less crowded, and you’ll have a more relaxed start.

A Show Worth Waking Up For

Even if you’re not a morning person, the pre-run show is worth the early wake-up. This year, the event kicked off with an exciting display of music, dancing, and an incredible air show, filling the skies with acrobatic jets and patriotic flair. The energy was electric—an unforgettable start to the day.

The Race Experience – Water, Cheers, and Smiles

One of the highlights? The people. Volunteers and spectators cheered from the sidelines, handed out water at frequent intervals, and offered heartfelt encouragement. We even had strangers cheering on Nick, offering help and even giving him a friendly push now and then. It was a beautiful display of community and inclusion.

After the Run – No Medal, But…

Unlike many races, Dubai Run doesn’t give out medals. But there’s still something to remember it by:

• You can download your official certificate of completion from the event website.
• Enter your bib number to find and download your race photos—perfect for sharing your achievement with friends and family.

An Inclusive, Joyful Urban Adventure

Dubai Run 2024 was more than just a fitness event. It was a celebration of movement, diversity, and connection. From elite athletes to families with strollers and participants in wheelchairs—it truly felt like a race where everyone belongs.

If you’re thinking about participating in 2025—go for it. Just pick an early slot, hydrate well, and get ready for one of the most unique running experiences on the planet.

If you enjoyed reading about our experience at Dubai Run 2024, don’t miss our guide to free and accessible attractions in Dubai. From stunning public beaches to iconic landmarks, there’s so much to explore—without spending a dirham!

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What is Orienteering?

Orienteering is more than just a sport—it’s a combination of navigation, endurance, and outdoor exploration. Participants use a map and compass to find a series of checkpoints (marked by white-and-orange kites), whose locations remain secret until the map is handed out at the start of the event. They must then choose their own routes between points, relying on physical stamina, sharp decision-making skills, and a good sense of direction. Orienteering offers the perfect blend of challenge, nature, and discovery.

While often seen as a competitive activity, orienteering welcomes people of all levels—from families looking for a fun day outdoors to athletes chasing victory. The real reward? That feeling of adventure and satisfaction when you reach the finish line, having explored, strategized, and conquered nature’s course.

Introducing SNOB: Sport Without Barriers

 Date: June 7, 2025
 Location: Chełstów, near Twardogóra, Poland
 Routes:
Walking (TP10): ~10 km (adapted for mobility impairments)
Cycling (TR30): ~30 km (accessible for handcyclists/adaptive bikes)
 Mission: “Sport is a space open to everyone—regardless of physical ability.”
 Participation: Free of charge (no fees for disabled participants or caregivers)
 Website: https://www.snob.run/

The SNOB Orienteering Event, organized by SNOB Foundation, has been a beloved fixture for outdoor enthusiasts, combining the joy of discovery with the thrill of competition. But this year marks a major milestone: for the first time, SNOB is accessible to people with disabilities.

Guided by the mission of “sport without barriers,” SNOB 2025 is breaking new ground by creating a truly inclusive adventure. Two specially adapted routes—TP10 (walking) and TR30 (cycling)—have been designed to accommodate participants with physical limitations, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy the spirit of orienteering.

Key Accessibility Features

SNOB isn’t just about competition—it’s about community, courage, and the belief that adventure should be for everyone. The organizers are offering:

• Free participation for all disabled attendees
• Specially designed routes
• Organizational support tailored to individual needs
• A welcoming and inclusive environment that ensures all participants feel safe, supported, and empowered
• Sweet rewards for all finishers at the finish line

The focus is on creating a space where people can connect, challenge themselves, and break down personal and societal barriers. It’s a celebration of movement, resilience, and the joy of being outdoors—together.

A Special Guest: Rita Malinkiewicz

In a powerful testament to the spirit of the event, SNOB 2025 will welcome a truly inspiring guest: Rita Malinkiewicz, a decorated mountain biker and Paralympian. After a life-changing accident, Rita returned to sports with renewed strength, becoming a symbol of perseverance and possibility. She’ll be taking on the TR30 route, showing firsthand that limits are meant to be overcome. Her presence underscores the message at the heart of SNOB: disability doesn’t define limits.

How to Register

Ready to take on the adventure? Participation is completely free, and signing up is simple. Just send an email to biuro@snob.pl with the participant’s name and contact number. The organizers will reach out to coordinate all the necessary details.

SNOB Orienteering 2025 is more than a race—it’s a movement. A movement toward inclusion, shared joy, and discovering strength in unexpected places. Come for the challenge, stay for the community, and leave with memories that prove one thing:

Adventure has no barriers.

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Bali is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and, of course, its delicious food. When Nick and I decided to take a cooking class during our trip, we were happy to find Santai Warung Cooking Class, a family-run experience that not only promised authentic Balinese cuisine but also accommodated my partner, who uses a wheelchair. What followed was an unforgettable afternoon of cooking, learning, and inclusivity.

The Class Setup: Thoughtful and Accessible

The cooking class normally takes place in the corner of the restaurant on a raised platform (quite a steep step). However, when I mentioned that my partner uses a wheelchair, the cook offered to rearrange the setup. She moved the cooking station to a flat, accessible area without stairs, ensuring my partner could fully participate. This small but meaningful gesture made all the difference and set the tone for a welcoming and inclusive experience.

That said, it’s important to note that the path inside the restaurant is a mix of gravel, cobblestone and tiles, which can be uneven and slightly challenging for wheelchair users. Additionally, there is no accessible toilet on-site. If this is a concern for you, I recommend planning ahead to ensure comfort during the class.

The Dishes: A Flavorful Journey Through Balinese Cuisine

Over the course of about two hours, we prepared a mouthwatering spread of traditional Balinese dishes. The menu included:

1. Corn Fritters (Bergedel Jagung): Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor.
2. Steamed Fish (Pepes Ikan): Fresh fish steamed in banana leaves with a fragrant blend of spices.
3. Chicken Curry (Kare Ayam): A rich and creamy curry with tender chicken and aromatic spices.
4. Mixed Vegetable Salad with Coconut (Sayur Urab): A refreshing mix of vegetables tossed with grated coconut and zesty dressing.
5. Balinese Pancake (Dadar Gulung): A sweet, green-colored pancake filled with coconut and palm sugar.

What made the cooking process even more fascinating was that all the dishes shared the same base spicy sauce, a flavorful blend of fresh herbs and spices like turmeric, ginger, garlic, and chili. This not only tied the dishes together but also highlighted the versatility of Balinese cuisine.

Each dish was a celebration of Balinese flavors, and the cook guided us through every step with patience. She told us about the medicinal uses of the ingredients we were using, such as turmeric, which stops bleeding from small wounds and prevents infections.

The Experience: Fun, Educational, and Inclusive

The class was hands-on and interactive, allowing us to grind spices, chop vegetables, and assemble dishes from scratch. The process was enjoyable, even for beginners like Nick The best part? At the end of the class, we got to savor everything we had prepared, and it was absolutely delicious! We also received a beautifully designed booklet with all the recipes, so we could recreate the dishes at home. It was a lovely keepsake to remember the experience by.

Another thing that impressed me was the zero-waste approach of the class. For example, the shredded coconut we used for the pancakes was later used to make coconut milk for the chicken curry. After extracting the milk, the leftover coconut was added to the mixed vegetable salad, ensuring nothing went to waste. It was inspiring to see how resourceful and sustainable traditional Balinese cooking can be.

Practical Details

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours
• Price: 300,000 IDR (about $15 USD)/per person (possibly cheaper for bigger groups)
• Accessibility: The class is not inherently wheelchair-accessible (the lack of an accessible toilet and challenging path is something to keep in mind), but the cook was more than willing to make adjustments to accommodate my partner. If you have specific accessibility needs, I recommend reaching out in advance to discuss arrangements.

Have you taken a cooking class in Bali or elsewhere? Share your experiences in the comments below! Don’t forget to check out our other post about Bali for more travel tips and inspiration.

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Bali is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, and one of the most unique and rewarding activities you can try is a carving class with Dika at Bali Carving Lessons. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, Dika’s workshop offers a warm, welcoming, and wheelchair-accessible environment where you can unleash your creativity. My partner Nick and I recently visited his studio, and it was an unforgettable experience. Here’s why you should add it to your Bali itinerary!

What to Expect at Bali Carving Lessons

Dika’s carving classes are a perfect blend of creativity, relaxation, and cultural immersion. The workshop is located in a peaceful area of Sanur, easily reachable by Gojek or Grab (ride-hailing apps widely used in Indonesia). From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with Dika’s signature hospitality – warm, friendly, and full of Aussie jokes (thanks to his daughter, who lives in Australia, Dika’s English is very good, and he loves sharing stories about his family and travels).

The studio itself is wheelchair accessible (for Balinese standards), with a ramp leading to the workspace. With a little push, you can easily get inside. Dika is more than happy to assist anyone who needs help, making it a great option for travelers with mobility challenges. However, it’s worth noting that the toilet is too small for wheelchair users and requires navigating a few stairs, so plan accordingly.

Soap Carving: A Perfect Introduction to the Art

I opted for the soap carving class, which was an absolute delight. Dika provides all the materials you need, including 12 bars of soap and a variety of carving tools. He patiently guides you through the process, offering tips and encouragement along the way.

I carved a lotus flower, a turtle, and a rose, and I was amazed at how therapeutic and satisfying the process was. The best part? There’s no time pressure – you can spend the whole day at the studio if you like, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and unlimited refreshments (free snacks and water are provided).

Wood Carving: A Challenge Worth Taking

Nick chose the wood carving class and created a stunning lizard. While wood carving might seem intimidating at first, it can actually be more forgiving than soap carving. If you make a mistake, you can always repair it with a bit of super glue, which makes it a great option for beginners. Dika’s expert guidance ensures that even first-timers can create something beautiful and unique. The sense of accomplishment you feel when you see your finished piece is incredible, and you get to take your creation home as a unique souvenir.

Other Carving Options, Prices and Opening Hours

In addition to soap and wood carving, Dika offers a variety of other classes to suit your interests. You can try your hand at fruit carving, stone carving, or even pumpkin carving (perfect for Halloween enthusiasts!). If you’re looking for something different, Dika also offers kite making classes, where you can create your own traditional Balinese kite.

The classes are affordable, with prices starting at 20 USD (395.000 IDR) for wood and soap carving (as of March 2025). Considering the quality of instruction, the materials provided, and the hospitality, it’s a fair price.

The studio is open daily from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your carving experience. For more information or to book a class, visit Dika’s website: www.balicarvinglessons.com. You can also make a booking through WhatsApp or email.

You can also buy wooden souvenirs made by Dika on-site. If you’re inspired to continue your carving journey at home, you’ll be happy to know that at Dika’s small shop you can also purchase some carving tools. 

If you’re looking for a unique, accessible, and enriching activity in Bali, look no further than Bali Carving Lessons with Dika. Whether you’re carving soap or wood, you’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment, a deeper appreciation for Balinese culture, and a beautiful handmade souvenir. Have you tried a carving class in Bali or elsewhere? Let us know in the comments – we’d love to hear about your experiences!

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