Dubai: The Etisalat Dubai Kids Run kicked off on Friday on a strong note with children aged 4-12 participating in the two-kilometre competition.
The Etisalat Dubai Kids Run, held at the Media City Amphitheatre, seeks to promote healthy eating and active lifestyles among the younger generation by encouraging them to take part in outdoor activity. The competition seeks to awaken the pursuit of wellness among children given the rising numbers of child obesity and diabetes cases.
Suhani Gupta, a 10-year-old from India, admitted that she enjoyed being part of the competition despite the heat and exhaustion.
“I wanted to run and participate in something I have never experienced before,” she said. “While running, I felt so happy just coming outside and interacting with others. It’s much better than staying at home playing with electronics.”
Gupta was proud of her achievement and encouraged others to participate in such competitions to feel good about themselves too.
Eight-year-old Dalia Yousuf from Sudan agreed that playing sports and enjoying the outdoors is better for one’s health than staying at home.
“I signed up because I like sports, I usually play football or basketball but I also like running,” she said.
Kelvan Gadd, a 9-year-old boy from South African, said that being at home does not necessarily mean being inactive. One can lead an active lifestyle at home with the appropriate activities made available.
“I’m home schooled, so I like being at home, but even when I’m home, I shoot hoops or ride my bike,” he said.
However, Gadd agreed that participating in the event and playing sports is essential for staying fit, which was why he chose to participate in the two-kilometre run.
“It’s pretty cool seeing different people from around the world and, I mean, I’m not necessarily the fittest person either so at least being part of this I’m burning calories,” he giggled.
The competition was divided into two, with the first race starting at 9.30am for children between the ages of 9 and 12, and the second race at 9.45am for those between the ages of 4 and 8. Those participating in the second race were accompanied by a guardian.
The two-day event, which ends on March 21, allows both children and parents to participate in a pleasurable day outdoors with games, food and refreshments for all. With free entrance to the fair, children enjoyed bouncing on inflatable castles as music filled the air. Adults too could be seen enjoying refreshments and taking in the sun.
— Maria Botros is a trainee at Gulf News.
