Runners turn out in droves for inaugural Dubai Canal Run

David Cooper - Writer 10:11 25/02/2019
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  • Getting fit: Runners completing the Canal Run Dubai

    Runners completed the first-ever Dubai Canal Run with participants taking part in three varying distances. Supported by RaceME, the leading sports events organiser in the Middle East and Oman Insurance Company & Bupa Global hosted the inaugural event, which took place alongside the Dubai Canal Path.

    Samer Sawaya, Head of Customer Service for Bupa Global said: “We know that taking the first step to improving your health and fitness can be challenging and, in some cases, intimidating. But there’s no better way to do so than exercising with your family whilst admiring the city you are in.”

    Participants came in the thousands to run and walk the 1km, 5km and 10km courses by the Canal supported by the Dubai Sports Council and RTA. Jon Norris from RaceME said: “We were delighted to be able to host this event with Oman Insurance Company and Bupa Global. This is the first time an event of this nature has been run at this venue and we were blown away with the support from the local community and the number of participants that signed up for the first Dubai Canal Run. This can only go from strength to strength and shows the desire for all Dubai residents to get out and see their city from a different view point”.

    Finish line: Plans are in place for next year's run

    Finish line: Plans are in place for next year’s run

    The event started at 7am with the first runners being the 10km group. A wide spectrum of athletes crossed the finish line with the overall winner completing the 10km course in roughly 34 minutes. As the rest of the runners came flowing back to the start/finish there were lots of activities and engagement within the vibrant race village with prizes and giveaways for the crowds. Participants could track their times thanks to antennas positioned at the start & finish line. The events were open to runners, and walkers, of all ages and abilities.

    The Dubai Canal has very recently opened and this is the first event like this to highlight the success of the area and ease of access for the residents of Dubai. Plans are already in place to organize the second edition of the Canal Run for next year. For more information about RaceME and their events head to raceme.ae

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