Running down the metres

Dubai: When ABRaS AC began their yearly athletics end of season rundown four years back, little did they know that it would turn out to be such a popular event. This year ABRaS AC have for the first time extended invitation to Dubai Road Runners, Dubai Creek Striders and Mirdiff Milers to compete for the overall men's and women's Inter-Club Cup. The inter-club track events are being held at Dubai American Academy with two events - 5000m and the 3000m - already having finished. Over the next month, athletes from these clubs will compete in the 1500m 800m and 4x400 relay.

"The track events are also popular with our members. We have a busy running schedule throughout the year running longer distances such as 10km, half marathons and marathons so it's great to compete in shorter distances especially in these hotter months," Debbie Powell, chairlady of ABRaS AC told XPRESS following the 3000m event this week.

About 28 men, 18 women and 18 juniors turned up for the latest event. "We wanted to make it more competitive and involve other clubs this year to join in the fun. And so far, it has been a great success," she added.

The format of the event is pretty interesting as well. "Here, the club with the least points in the end will be declared the champions. The format here is the one who finishes first gets one point and so on," Debbie explained.

There's a junior ABRaS AC (under-18) event that takes place side by side and Debbie proudly reveals that her club is leading the race.

"With just two more rounds to go ABRaS AC are ahead in both the men's and women's sections," she said.

So, is there a lot of money involved in running these events?

"Not for these track events, only a minimal entry fee is charged to cover for medals, trophies and water," Debbie said.

3000m results

women

Men