'UAE runs' in honour of its founding father

Date

2/10/2016 8:34:23 PM

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

It's being billed as the day the UAE runs when an expected 3500 people join a marathon of national unity.

The annual Zayed Marathon held in honour of the late Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan will take place on March 19 at Yas Marina Circuit.

For runners of all abilities throughout the country the race is one of the standout sporting events of the year - an ideal chance to get fit and active in a fun environment and to run together on a day of national celebration.

There are two distances around Yas Marina Circuit a 10 kilometre and 5 kilometre run as well as a 5 kilometre "Hand Cycle" race for wheelchair competitors.

Young runners will be invited to compete in the 1 kilometre and 3 kilometre 'KidsRUN' while a strong line-up of experienced athletes will feature in the 'ProFIELD' event. The race is organised by the Armed Forces Officers Club in collaboration with Yas Marina Circuit Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (Seha). Furthermore all proceeds will go to Seha of which Shaikh Zayed was an avid supporter.

Lieutenant-General Mohammad Al Kaabi Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Armed Forces Officers Club said: "Of all the fantastic sporting events in the UAE throughout the year the Zayed Marathon stands out as the run for the people."

To help people prepare for the big day and to support all entrants Yas Marina Circuit has organised a free-to-join training schedule. Starting on February 13 the six-week programme features runs at Yas Island Parkland North Mushrif park Zayed Sports City and Al Bateen on Saturdays Mondays and Wednesdays respectively. There will even be specialised training clinics for kids.

All entrants will have their BMI index and other data measured on site as part of the Yas Marina Circuit's ongoing 'Big Data' health audit initiative to benchmark the UAE's activity habits. The information collected will add to the existing knowledge base for use in future health planning strategies in the emirate.

Total prize money this year will be Dh88000 with cash prizes awarded for first second and third places in all adult categories. Each competitor will receive a race number timing chip finisher shirt and finisher medal.

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