Dubai Marathon 2025: Cancer survivor sets world record running blindfolded and barefoot
Lebanese athlete Ramy Naouss proves 'Light at the End of the Tunnel'
DUBAI: A Lebanese expatriate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has achieved a monumental milestone at the Dubai Marathon, leaving a lasting impression on spectators and participants alike.
Last Sunday (January 12), Ramy Naouss completed the gruelling 42.2-kilometre course blindfolded and barefoot, combining physical endurance with an extraordinary mental challenge.
The 33-year-old's remarkable effort not only secured him a Guinness World Record for the fastest blindfolded marathon but also delivered an inspiring message of hope, resilience, and inner strength.
Why run blindfolded?
Ramy’s choice to run in complete darkness was deeply personal, reflecting his journey of overcoming blood cancer. Diagnosed at 25, he battled not only the physical toll of the disease but also the emotional challenges it brought. “I wanted to show that no matter how dark life feels, there’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” he explained.
Running without shoes further symbolised life’s hardships. “Life isn’t always easy. Pain is inevitable, but you have to keep pushing forward,” Ramy said, illustrating how his bare feet mirrored the struggles he has endured and overcome.
For nearly two years, Ramy has been delving into meditation, honing his inner strength and spirituality. “Closing my eyes has been a cornerstone of this journey,” he shared. “Running blindfolded was a natural extension of that practice.”
Two weeks before the marathon, Guinness World Records approached Ramy, prompting him to combine his personal philosophy with a daring physical challenge.
From pain to purpose
Ramy’s road to recovery and fitness was far from smooth. Chronic back and knee pain made physical activity difficult during his fight against cancer. However, two years ago, he embraced barefoot running at a cancer awareness event in Lebanon, using discomfort as a stepping stone to resilience.
Reflecting on his decision to cease long-term treatment, Ramy said, “It wasn’t out of ignorance but from understanding my body’s ability to heal. When my results came back clear, it was like a bright light breaking through years of darkness.”
Inspiring through action
Outside the marathon, Ramy is a motivational figure, author, and wellness advocate. His book, Let’s Live: Challenging Yourself is the Way, shares insights from his transformative journey, offering guidance for those facing personal challenges.
On social media, Ramy inspires his followers to take small, consistent steps toward self-improvement. “Running helped me prove that becoming one per cent better every day is possible. That’s the key to long-term success,” he emphasised.
@gwrarabic أطول فترة في الوقوف على لوح من المسامير ⏱️ 12 ساعة و12 دقيقة و8 ثواني من قبل رامي ناعوس (لبنان) @ramynaous ♬ original sound - Guinness World Records Arabic
This is not Ramy’s first brush with record-breaking challenges. Previously, he stood on a Sadhu nail board for an astounding 12 hours and 12 minutes, demonstrating the power of mental endurance.
Looking ahead, Ramy plans to take on the fastest half marathon barefoot on ice and snow. The challenge is driven by his desire to face fear head-on and prove that limitations can be transcended.
“Death isn’t losing life; it’s losing hope,” he remarked. With every record, Ramy amplifies his message of resilience, determination, and the importance of early cancer detection, inspiring countless others to prioritise their health and embrace life’s challenges.