Pushing the limits from Dubai to Riyadh

09 April 2020

Mohamed Badawy's inspiring running story

Meet Mohamed Badawy, Associate Director - Project Controls at the AtkinsRéalis Group, including Atkins and Faithful+Gould. His chief superpower is collaboration. From skyscrapers to resorts, commercial buildings to community developments, he enables multidisciplinary teams to clients' vision into reality. After recently relocating from Dubai to Riyadh he discovered his other superpower – running. In just 5 months he went on to surprise even himself by training for and completing a 50 km ultramarathon! #InsideAtkins recently caught up with him to hear his story...

How are you finding life in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)?

After relocating from Dubai, my life did a 180° about-turn. My first question was, "How will I spend my time?" So, I started searching for something to do. To my surprise, I found several running groups. One of the common misconceptions is that because KSA is a conservative country, life is boring. But you can find what you enjoy here, you just need to search for it!

Have you always been a competitive runner?

When I came across Riyadh Road Runners (RRR) through the International Expat Forum, I was only running max 8 km a week. RRR organize running events over the six temperate months of each year. As I started late in the season, I signed up for my first run in November. It was a big challenge to run the first 16 km of my life with no training. I asked a colleague for advice on how to prepare for 16k in just 10 days. He gave me a running plan, which I followed carefully. I took part in the event and did it!

"If I go, there's no telling how far."

I'd only been running for a month, so the achievement was a thrill. But the season has four big events – the 21k, 30k, 42k and 50k runs - for which you can earn a pizza-shaped medal. When you complete all the big races, the combined pieces form a complete circle. I knew I had to attempt my first half marathon. But I just had two weeks to get ready.

"Mission completed!"

Again I turned to my colleague, seeking another plan, and followed it without argument. I was so excited on the day of the half marathon. However, as I am a relatively new runner, I didn't know how to hydrate myself during the run. So, with some difficulty, I finally completed it, feeling dizzy as I crossed the finish line.

What lessons did you learn from these incredible runs?

image of Mohamad with a half marathon medal

From my first half marathon, I learnt how to take care of myself during a long-distance run. My next challenge was the 30 km marathon. But I'd made another mistake. I'd done a long-distance run six days before the race, so with two days to go, my muscles had started cramping. On my coach's advice, I went for a good massage. I was afraid to do the run but told myself I would just stop if I felt any cramping. Despite the challenges, I completed the 30 km. My time was almost 4 hrs. Mission completed, I'd earned half the pizza!

And then you were planning to do the Full Marathon in just two weeks?

Yes! I was determined to win my third medal of the season. From the last challenges, I learnt that I needed a really good rest between the long runs. So, I did not run four days before the full Marathon.

"My biggest challenge yet."

For the 42 km run, I bought a CamelBak and filled it with Gatorade for electrolytes. With all this preparation, I completed the marathon in over 5hrs, and achieved my third medal!

What made you push on for the ultramarathon?

It was all down to that last piece of pizza. I had cramps the week before the race, and almost decided not run. I told myself that's really enough for my first season. On the other hand, I just needed one more medal to complete the pizza. So two days before the run, I went on a Pilates Reformer with my friend Candace, who is a practitioner. It helped, so I changed my mind at the last minute and found myself at the race at 5am the next morning.

What was your run like?

I had never experienced anything like it in my life. It was one of the biggest challenges of my life. The course had three hills that we needed to overcome, and the trail was mostly off-road. The run was different to all the races in Riyadh and very, very long. I ran more than 7 hrs on this day. 50 km – I thought I'd lost my mind to go for something like that. But for my effort and perseverance, I'm now the proud owner of all four medals.

Do you have any advice for people thinking about a personal or professional dream?

1. Don't overthink the problems, focus on solutions instead.

2. You can do anything if you make it your goal, put together an action plan and work gradually to achieve it.

3. Stretch your limits, break the limiting beliefs about yourself, you can do a lot.

4. Discipline and consistency make anything possible.

5. Surround yourself with positive, healthy, supportive people, and you'll transform your life.

6. It's all about mentality, have the right mindset to win.

7. Don't listen to people, listen to your heart. Start small and don't quit until you achieve your big dream.

8. Look at the bright side of each difficulty. When I relocated from Dubai, it was a shock to the system, but I focused on spending my time enjoying positive activities instead.

9. Have a mentor. Someone who has already achieved the goals you seek. Listen to them, ask about how they achieved their dream, and just don't argue. Listen, understand and apply. Your mentor will help you overcome the bumps so you can reach your goal.

What do you enjoy the most about the company?

I've always aspired to work here, as it's one of the most prestigious consultancies in the region and the world. It's given me opportunities to work on mega construction projects with qualified professional engineers. I also love the people at Atkins. The Saudi team gave me a warm welcome and did everything they could to help me to settle in. We're a big family now, and we've started running together on weekends. It's helped us have fun, relieve tension and has brought us closer.

Congratulations on your great achievements, Mohamed!

List #1

Our articles

Young male engineer working on construction site wearing ear protectors

What does it take to be an effective civil engineer in Hong Kong?

Preview

Asia

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/18/2024

Summary

As a global metropolis, Hong Kong has long been a fantastic place to be a civil engineer. With world-class infrastructure all around, effective civil engineers have many opportunities to be a

Preview

Here are a few strategies that professionals new to the industry can deploy to be effective civil engineers in Hong Kong.

Pinkish colourful sunrise over Sydney city CBD on waterfront of Harbour around Circular quay with major architectural landmarks and symbols of Australia.

Embracing motherhood and career: Srijana's journey with AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Australia

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/18/2024

Summary

In January 2024, Srijana embarked on a new chapter in her engineering career, joining AtkinsRealis as a Chartered Structural Engineer. With six years of experience on a wide variety of projects, Sr

Preview

Learn about our commitment to flexibility with Srijana's career story.

A lit up Saudi Arabian castle in the evening, with the night sky in the background and palm trees at the front

What is the New Murabba project in Saudi Arabia?

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/16/2024

Summary

In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), you’ll find an awe-inspiring and profoundly transformative endeavor that encapsulates innovation, sustainability, and the unparalleled proficiency of AtkinsRéa

Preview

Learn about the innovative New Murabba project in Saudi Arabia.

7 reasons mechanical engineers won't leave AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Europe

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/11/2024

Summary

Hello, I'm Ben, Mechanical Team Lead in the Decommissioning & Waste Services team. My journey at AtkinsRéalis, from a graduate to a team lead, has been inspired by my belief that we can "engin

Preview

#MakeItBrilliant: Exciting opportunities in mechanical engineering and nuclear power careers

Shailaja Mantha

Nuclear

Nuclear professional in modern factory using laptop controlling program to automatic machinery.

How to land a nuclear engineering job without nuclear experience

Preview

Europe

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/04/2024

Summary

Welcome to the dynamic world of nuclear engineering – where innovation meets sustainability. We unveil the pathway to landing a nuclear engineering job, even without prior experience in the nuclea

Preview

Explore exciting opportunities in nuclear with AtkinsRéalis.

Nuclear

Building the Future Together: The DEWA Headquarters Project

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Projects

Publish date

04/04/2024

Summary

The AtkinsRéalis team, in a commendable collaboration with the site team, United Engineering Construction (UNEC), and its subcontractors, has exhibited exceptional dedication and expertise, making

Preview

Discover how the AtkinsRéalis team is spearheading the evolution of net-zero energy buildings.

Breaking New Ground: Celebrating the Exceptional Women of AtkinsRéalis

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/04/2024

Summary

In the world of construction and development, where innovation meets hard work under the towering silhouettes of our projects, the role of women has been historically underrepresented. However, the

Preview

The inspiring story of Farida Farag, a beacon of leadership and innovation at AtkinsRéalis.

Electrical engineer and foreman checking plans in a tablet at at construction site

Soft skills you need to succeed as a senior electrical engineer

Preview

Canada

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/03/2024

Summary

In any career, it’s easy to get tunnel-vision and apply more weight to the development of technical skills. What many fail to recognize is the importance of fostering your soft skills; that is,

Preview

Unlock the soft skills that elevate your career beyond technical expertise

Innovation

panorama of beautiful countryside of romania. sunny afternoon. wonderful springtime landscape in mountains. grassy field and rolling hills. rural scenery

Join Our Landscape & Public Realm team in India & unlock your future

Preview

India

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

04/02/2024

Summary

Are you passionate to shape the future of cities and public realm ? At AtkinsRealis, our GTC Landscape & Public Realm team isn't just a service—it's a gateway to boundless opportunities, innovation

Preview

Are you passionate about shaping the future of cities and public realm?

Building and places

How to choose the right engineering firm for you

Preview

India

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

03/27/2024

Summary

The engineering firm you choose will significantly impact your career. Select the right one, and you'll find your career goals supported, a healthy work-life balance and the team dynamic that you

Preview

Unlock your potential in engineering with AtkinsRéalis.

IMechE - technical paper writing competition winners

AtkinsRéalis Triumphs in IMechE Technical Paper Competition 2023

Preview

India

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

03/27/2024

Summary

Our Global Technology Centre’s recent triumph in securing the 1st prize at the prestigious Institute of Mechanical Engineers’ (IMechE) Technical Paper Competition 2023 under the working young membe

Preview

Learn about our recent GTC success.

8 things you should know about neurodiversity in the workplace

Preview

Europe

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

03/27/2024

Summary

I'm Chloe, a degree apprentice with the transportation team. I work on projects that make journeys safer and faster. While pursuing my degree, I get hands-on experience in design and project man

Preview

Dyslexia in focus: a degree apprentice's insights for Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Shailaja Mantha

Equality diversity and inclusion

View all

Insights Pushing the limits from Dubai to Riyadh

Mohamed Badawy's inspiring running story

How are you finding life in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)?

Have you always been a competitive runner?

What lessons did you learn from these incredible runs?

And then you were planning to do the Full Marathon in just two weeks?

What made you push on for the ultramarathon?

What was your run like?

Do you have any advice for people thinking about a personal or professional dream?

What do you enjoy the most about the company?

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Insights Pushing the limits from Dubai to Riyadh

Mohamed Badawy's inspiring running story

How are you finding life in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)?

Have you always been a competitive runner?

What lessons did you learn from these incredible runs?

And then you were planning to do the Full Marathon in just two weeks?

What made you push on for the ultramarathon?

What was your run like?

Do you have any advice for people thinking about a personal or professional dream?

What do you enjoy the most about the company?

Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis

Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests