Noor Elakhdar was born with trisomy 21 in all cells (also known as Down Syndrome) and at 19 was also diagnosed with a hidden disability, Autism spectrum.
Noor started to run in 2023 as a part of her favourite sport, triathlon, and running became her focus as it was her weakest discipline. A plan was formed to take Noor towards her ultimate goal: a long-distance triathlon.
Whilst trying to find her rhythm on an indoor track, to her surprise she was selected to be an ASICS front runner for the UAE team. So Noor leaned into it, letting the challenge push her further than she expected.
Physically, it was tough, especially as the laps piled up. Mentally, she hit a wall and realised that she craves variety, open roads, and the kind of distance that feels like it takes you somewhere.
But that discomfort has been part of Noor’s process. Every run—tiring, repetitive, but unexpectedly making her stronger—builds the base for something bigger. She certainly doesn’t love every step, but she is committed to the journey. A journey which has led to Noor meeting amazing athletes and Coaches who continue to help and train her.
Over the last 2 years Noor has learnt a lot about herself and how she is strong enough to handle any challenge or obstacle that come along with the journey.
It is not about the podium, pace or distance, it is about mind rest and feeling freedom alongside the happiness.