Shaikh Ahmad urges nationals to run in Dubai marathon

Dubai : Shaikh Ahmad Hasher Al Maktoum, UAE's only Olympics gold medallist, wants more nationals to take part in the Dubai Marathon.

The ace shooter was among the spectators and dignitaries at the 13th edition of the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon yesterday.

Speaking to Gulf News after attending the prize giving ceremony, Shaikh Ahmad said: "The only room for improvement is in that I don't see any nationals running in it. I would love to see many nationals taking part. The whole point is not about winning the race, but participating. It is important for nationals to participate in an event of such magnitude. All nationals should be part of such an event as organisers as well as runners.

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"I have enjoyed every moment of the morning here. I was watching this event from early morning and I am really excited about it. It is a good event and it is nice to see a huge crowd. I wish I too had participated in the event."

Shaikh Ahmad, who personally greeted all the winners at the podium, said: "It is always nice to see a good sporting event and it has really become a very good event with the support of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. All those who are in charge of this marathon have done a great job."

Worth the effort

Shaikh Ahmad also acknowledged the efforts of the organisers in transforming this marathon into one of the best in the world. "We nationals are proud to have such an event and we are proud to be part of this country which organises such an international event," he said.

According to Shaikh Ahmad, the Dubai Marathon has the scope to become the best. "I am looking forward to hear that this Marathon has become the number one event in the world. If I hear it soon, I won't be surprised," he added.