Abdulla Al-Jabri aka Jabri is passionate about creating a welcoming space for all runners and, even more so, about bringing people together through running. Under his leadership, adidas Runners Doha has grown into one of the leading running communities in the country. Abdulla proudly serves as the Captain and Coach of adidas Runners Doha, as well as the Founder and Head Coach of Fennec Athletics.
A Legacy Rooted in Athletics
Jabri’s journey into the world of athletics was not by chance; it was ingrained in his very DNA. Born into a family deeply involved in sports, he grew up watching his father—a distinguished race-walker and Army veteran—demonstrate discipline, endurance, and resilience daily. This strong foundation shaped Jabri’s early interest in physical activities, but little did he know that sports would eventually become his saving grace and his path to inspiring countless others.
Discovering a Passion for the Outdoors
From an early age, Jabri was drawn to activities that challenged both his physical and mental endurance. He found solace in the vastness of nature, embracing mountain climbing, hiking, and cycling as his outlets for exploration and self-discovery.
However, it was in 2011 that Jabri truly found his calling—running. What began as a simple means to stay active soon became an essential tool in his battle against personal struggles. Running helped him combat depression and anxiety, offering clarity, purpose, and a sense of accomplishment. Over the years, he pushed his limits, participating in everything from 5km races to full marathons, proving to himself and others that adversity could be conquered with perseverance.
Turning Passion into Knowledge: The Pursuit of Excellence
Jabri’s relentless curiosity and drive to better himself led him to seek formal education in fitness and coaching. He knew that passion alone wasn’t enough—he needed the knowledge to back it up. He obtained certifications from some of the most respected institutions in the industry, including:
- NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) – specializing in performance enhancement
- ISSA (International Sports Sciences Association) – focusing on personal training and strength conditioning
- UESCA (United Endurance Sports Coaching Academy) – mastering endurance training strategies
- RUNDNA Level 1 – gaining expertise in run coaching
- TrainingPeaks Level 2 (TP L2) – honing his skills in data-driven athlete development
These certifications transformed Jabri from an athlete into a mentor, equipping him with the knowledge and expertise to guide others in achieving their fitness goals.
A Life Shaped by Community: adidas Runners Doha
While my passion for running started as a personal journey, it was adidas Runners Doha that truly transformed it into a lifelong mission. Joining the crew wasn’t just about training or chasing finish lines — it was about finding a second family, a place where I could grow not only as a runner but also as a leader and coach.
As a captain and coach with adidas Runners Doha, I discovered the power of community — the way shared miles could forge lifelong bonds and the way lifting others up made us all stronger. It was within this incredible crew that I found my voice, my purpose, and a belief that I had something valuable to offer to others.
Without adidas Runners Doha, I honestly don’t know where I would be today. It gave me the confidence to step up, to share my struggles openly, and to turn those struggles into strength — not just for myself, but for everyone around me. The lessons I learned from coaching and leading within that community continue to guide me every day, shaping the way I mentor athletes.
It’s a reminder that no journey is truly a solo effort. Sometimes, all it takes is one community, one crew, to help you realize how far you can go. And for that, I will always be grateful
The Birth of Fennec Athletics: A Brand Built on Resilience
By 2020, the world was grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic, forcing people into isolation and limiting access to fitness facilities. Seeing an opportunity to provide structure and motivation during these trying times, Jabri founded Fennec Athletics.
The name was no accident. The fennec fox, a small desert-dwelling creature, thrives in extreme conditions thanks to its adaptability, endurance, and resilience—qualities Jabri deeply resonated with. Through Fennec Athletics, he sought to build a community that embodied these same principles, empowering individuals to push beyond their perceived limits and embrace a lifestyle of growth and perseverance.
Battling Personal Struggles: Overcoming Psychogenic Stuttering
Jabri’s path was not without obstacles. At just 11 years old, he developed psychogenic stuttering, a speech disorder triggered by emotional stress. This condition made communication a daily struggle, compounding his social anxiety and fueling his battle with depression.
Yet, instead of allowing these challenges to define him, Jabri turned them into fuel for self-improvement. He found solace in endurance sports, which provided a meditative escape from the noise of self-doubt. Each mile he ran, each mountain he climbed, was a testament to his resilience.
Today, he openly shares his story to inspire others who may be struggling, proving that personal battles—no matter how difficult—can be overcome through perseverance, self-belief, and a strong support system.
Juggling Passion and Profession: The Aspire Foundation Role
While building Fennec Athletics, Jabri didn’t put his personal growth on hold. He continued working full-time at Aspire Foundation, a role that allowed him to blend his passion for coaching with meaningful community engagement. Balancing both responsibilities was no easy feat, but his unwavering commitment to making a difference kept him pushing forward.
Through his work at Aspire, Jabri continued expanding his influence, offering fitness training, mentorship, and support to individuals looking to transform their lives.
Conquering Peaks: An Adventurer at Heart
Jabri’s spirit of adventure extended far beyond the running track. He set his sights on some of the world’s most challenging landscapes, scaling peaks across Africa and Europe. His participation in ultramarathons, endurance events, and extreme mountain treks is a testament to his philosophy—growth comes from stepping outside of one’s comfort zone.
His adventures are not just personal achievements; they serve as motivation for others to embrace challenges, proving that limitations are often self-imposed. Whether through coaching, storytelling, or leading by example, Jabri continues to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of athletes and adventurers.
The ‘Going Farther’ Philosophy: More Than Just a Motto
At the core of Jabri’s journey lies a simple yet powerful mantra: “Going Farther.”
This philosophy isn’t just about physical endurance; it’s about pushing past fears, overcoming obstacles, and striving for excellence in every aspect of life. Whether it’s taking on a new fitness challenge, confronting personal demons, or building a business from the ground up, Jabri embodies the belief that there is always room for growth.
Through Fennec Athletics, he instills this mindset in his clients, encouraging them to:
- Set ambitious goals – Dream big and commit to self-improvement.
- Embrace the struggle – Growth comes from challenges, not comfort.
- Stay adaptable – Life will always present obstacles, but resilience will see you through.
Fennec Athletics: More Than Just a Brand, A Movement
Today, Fennec Athletics is more than just a coaching platform—it’s a movement. Through personalized training programs, mentorship, and an ever-growing community, Jabri is helping individuals of all backgrounds unlock their full potential.
His approach isn’t just about fitness; it’s about holistic well-being. Whether clients seek improved athletic performance, mental resilience, or lifestyle transformation, Fennec Athletics offers the guidance and support they need to thrive.
Conclusion: Inspiring the Next Generation
Jabri’s journey from a young boy struggling with self-doubt to an accomplished athlete, entrepreneur, and mentor is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering passion. His story proves that adversity is not an endpoint—it is merely a stepping stone to greater achievements.
Through Fennec Athletics, he continues to inspire countless individuals to believe in themselves, push their limits, and GO FARTHER—in sports, in life, and in personal growth.
As he continues to scale new peaks, break barriers, and empower others, one thing remains certain: Jabri’s journey is far from over. In fact, it’s only just beginning.
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