More than 2,000 people have already signed up for the Zayed Marathon, in aid of charity, and there’s still time to compete with registrations open until the day of the event.
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Taking place this Saturday, March 21, from 14:00 at Yas Marina Circuit, there are various categories to choose from whether you’re an experienced runner or not. Adults can compete in the 5km and 10km distances, while there are three categories (1, 3 and 5km) for children.
Additionally, there is also a 5km “Hand Cycle” race for wheelchair competitors.
The winner of each category will receive Dh10,000 while the runnerup and third-placed finisher will bag Dh7,000 and Dh5,000 respectively.
The race is held in memory of the UAE’s founding president Sheikh Zayed, who underwent kidney transplant in the United States in 2000.
It’s official! March 21st 2015 is the day the UAE runs at #ZayedMarathon! Register today: http://t.co/VxW2xGsr1O pic.twitter.com/8TvUPQmI94
— Yas Marina Circuit (@ymcofficial) March 3, 2015
To date, more than Dh130 million has been raised with the event proving to be hugely popular with editions in the United States and Cairo, Egypt.
Entry costs Dh100 and your participation will make a huge difference as every dirham raised from the entry fee will be donated to the Healthy Kidney Foundation. And, if you’re not competing, there are plenty of activities to keep you occupied.
A kids zone, including a bouncy castle, and live music performances from Arab and Western artists are on the agenda in what promises to be great day out for the family.
“The message we want to send out is that this is nothing to do with athletics,” said Ahmed Al Kaabi, part of the organising committee for the race, which is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister and minister of presidential affairs.
“It’s purely down to helping the charity Healthy Kidney Foundation. This marathon is to help those people who need money to pay for surgeries so they can live a better life.”
He added: “We want to raise as much money as possible on Saturday. Let’s help people who need our help as every dirham raised will make a huge difference.”
And Al Tareq Al Ameri, CEO of Yas Marina Circuit, echoed Al Kaabi’s views. He said: “We are pleased to welcome the return of the Zayed Marathon to the circuit.
We are huge advocates of leading a healthy and more active lifestyle and the Zayed Marathon is a great way for members of the local community of all ages and abilities to get motivated and enjoy a fun day out.”
What: Zayed Marathon
Where: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, March 21 at 14:00
Contact: Registrations can be done on www.yasmarinacircuit.com or on the day itself
