DUBAI With the 5th Dubai Holding Women’s Run fast approaching there’s excitement in the air. The event that has seen rapid growth over the years is certain to write another success story when it will be held on November 7.
“It’s growing very fast with a 20 to 25 per cent growth each year,” said Ahmad Al Kamali, president of UAE Athletics Federation.
“We had over 5,000 participants last year and we are expecting more than that. There has been a lot of support from nearly 40 sponsors headed by Dubai Holding and government departments including Dubai Police, RTA and Ambulance services,” he added.
The event, which is supported by the Dubai Sports Council, will be held in two categories – 5k and 10k – over a new route at the Umm Sequim Road next to the Dubai Police Academy.
Recalling the early days, Al Kamali said they were unsure of the idea when it was proposed to them. “Five years ago there was a demand for having a women-only run. We were a little worried about its success but after the first year we had over 1,300 runners and that was encouraging. It allowed us to dream big and we are happy with the way it’s grown.”
Encouraging women
Liesa Euton, race director of the women’s run, said she was overwhelmed by the response she received for registrations till now. “I’m excited to see a large number of registrants and want to encourage more women to join us.”
She added the increase in the number of Emirati women keen to participate was further encouraging. “The percentage of participating Emirati women has been exciting and we have a special prize for the local women finishing on top. We have got great response from schools as well.
“We have a lot of activities planned at the start and finish of the race related to health and fitness and beauty. We also have made arrangements for mothers to drop of their kids at the play areas and focus on their run,” she added while thanking Dubai Creek Striders.
“We have moved from Meydan. The Dubai Creek Striders helped in organising the race and designing the route. Everyone who finishes gets a medal while we have some amazing gifts for the winners.”
The event received a further boost when Emirati distance runner and Asian Games gold medal winner Alia Mohammad Saeed confirmed her participation.
Nayab Rafiq, CEO, Pinnacle Middle East (Official organising partner) said: “In the next five years we want to be positioned as the world’s leading women’s run and hopefully look at breaking the world record.
“The event represents key values like female empowerment, community spirit and health and wellness. It enables women from different backgrounds and different levels of fitness to participate.
The event’s sponsors are XPRESS, Jumeirah Group, Talise Fitness, Arabian Radio Network, Pinnacle Middle East, MonViso, du, CPI Media Group, Pocari Sweat, 2B beverages, Tribe Fit, Regent International School, Jumeirah International Nurseries, Worood Floral Boutique and Crystal Galleries.