Dubai: The chief of the UAE Athletics Federation (UAEAF) expects next month's annual McDonald's Olympic Day Run to generate an enhanced interest in athletics.
"This is the ninth year of the McDonald's Olympic Day Run and we are targeting an attendance of more than 5,000 children from schools all over the UAE," Ahmad Al Kamali, UAEAF president told Gulf News yesterday.
The McDonald's Olympic Day Run will be held on April 8 next to the Al Mamzar Park in three age categories and distances: 3.4km for 16 years and above, 3km for 14-15 year-olds and 2.5km for 11-13 year-olds. Given his talent and potential in long distance running, last year's winner Ammar Al Baloushi was adopted by the UAEAF and enrolled with Al Ahli Club.
"He has shown so much improvement that he is now in a position to make it into the UAE national athletics squad," Al Kamali said.
"We expect a lot from him as he is just 15 years old. But our sights are on the future. We want to prepare him with the possibility of qualifying for London 2012."
The ninth edition of the annual road race was announced by Saad Al Muhairi, UAEAF secretary general, Rafiq Fakih from sponsors McDonald's and Obaid Al Saheb representing the UAE National Olympic Committee.
Another addition to this year's run is the participation from schools from across the country.
"This is a huge logistical operation, but we are confident of having the best response from schools and institutions over the next few days," said Al Muhairi.
Increase in prizes
Main sponsors McDonald's have also increased their presence while giving out a total of 60 prizes for winners in all three age categories.
"We have another three years left with this deal and our aim will be to ensure we target talent coming through the schools and educational institutions and further consolidate the UAE's presence on the athletics' scene," Al Kamali said.
Factbox
- What: McDonald's Olympic Day Run
- When: 3 pm onwards on April 8 (Friday)
- Where: Al Mamzar Park
- Categories: (3.4km) Above 16 years; (3 km) 14-15 years; (2.5km) 11-13 years.
- Last date for registration: April 4. Website: www.uaeathletic.com or www.mcdonaldsarabia.com or any of the McDonald's restaurants in the UAE.
