Hundreds of runners will flock to the Yas Marina Circuit on Saturday as the annual charity Zayed Marathon returns, where your participation will make a huge difference.
More than 1,000 will take to the track in an event held in honour of the UAE’s founding president – H.H Sheikh Zayed.
However, you can still join them with registration open until the start of events from 15:00.
There are various categories to choose from whether you’re an exp-erienced 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.
Every single dhiram of the Dh100 registration fee will be donated to SEHA (Abu Dhabi Health Services Company), an organisation that prevents health diseases – something that Sheikh Zayed was an avid supporter of.
While the emphasis is on participation, there’s attractive cash prizes, worth Dh88,000 for the top-three finishers in the adults categories.
If you’re not competing, there’s plenty to look forward to with a kids play zone and plenty of entertainment on the agenda.
“Of all the fantastic sporting events in the UAE throughout the year, the Zayed Marathon stand out as the run for the people,” said Lt General Mohammad Al Kaabi, chairman of the board of directors of the Armed Forces Officers Club, one of the marathon’s organisers.
“It’s an opportunity for friends and families to enjoy a fun day out, to get fit and healthy and to honour the legacy of H.H Sheikh Zayed by supporting a cause that was so dear to him.”
Among the runners, who will hit the track is Emirati Khalid Alfoulathi, who gave up smoking two years ago.
And the 29-year-old is urging those who’ve not signed up to join.
“The Zayed Marathon is important in giving people a target to aim for and a great sense of personal satisfaction,” he said.
“Anyone taking part for the first time we feel the beneifts of excercise and will get hooked on running just like I did.”
For information on registration, and schedule of events, visit www.yasmarinacircuit.com.