The Saucony Dubai Autodrome 5km race is on December 11, and with registration still open, organisers are inviting people of different ages to compete in the event.

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By ensuring as many people can attend, the race will be held at 19:00, ideal for those who want to race after work or school. The event will have two distances – 2.5 and 5km. The 2.5km, which will take place for the first time, is for runners aged up to 14 years old.

Juniors who want to challenge themselves can compete in the 5km distance, which is open to 14-year-olds and above.

“With the event being held on a Thursday evening, and after school, juniors can take part in the run and this has already been appreciated by the parents so far,” said Anja Schwerin, club secretary of Dubai Road Runners, who are organising the race.

“Some juniors run during the week and so this gives them an opportunity to have a proper race and experience what it’s all about.” Explaining the reason why a 5km distance was chosen, Schwerin said: “There are not many short distance races or runs in the UAE. So this gives them an opportunity to experience a 5km race.

“For those who compete in longer distances it’s an ideal event and can be used as a stepping stone in their preparations for longer races.”

And with it being held at the Dubai Autodrome, which hosts top motorsport events in the UAE, Schwerin believes it will be a unique opportunity for those who take part.

“The Dubai Autodrome is a perfect venue to hold the race as it covers the race distances,” she added. “Not only will runners compete in a safe environment and trafficfree, it will be very unique running around the track, under floodlights on a track.”

There 10 different age categories (adults: 18-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-69, juniors: eight and below, nine-to-11, 12-14 for 2.5km, and 14-17 for 5km) with winners of each being awarded with trophies for their efforts.

Entry costs Dh50 for those who wish to compete in the 5km race, and Dh20 for the junior race. “When organising this event, Dubai Road Runners kept in mind that they wanted to keep it low-key and affordable,” said Scherwin.

“Already 300 people have signed up and we hope more can still join in what will be a pleasant evening in Dubai. Running is always good in maintaining a healthy lifestyle which can be enjoyable and fun.”