A fun day in memory of Shaikh Zayed

Abu Dhabi: As the Zayed International Marathon began yesterday the event was filled with enthusiasm and love for the father of the nation, in whose memory many sports enthusiasts and others took to the tracks.

The warm weather did tire many participants. Some of them even removed their shoes and t-shirts.

However the most determined seemed to be those with special needs who put forth their best. The not so sporty kind, who also decided to show their love and respect for Shaikh Zayed walked the marathon chatting and catching up with friends.

Ibrahim Salem, a 27-year-old from Al Atthiqah Club for the Handicapped, came first in the marathon in the special needs category.

"I regularly participate in races and have won this marathon three times... it feels great," he told Gulf News. Polio took away his leg but not his hopes, he said.

"The marathon is in memory of Shaikh Zayed and it is a privilege to be able to contribute the best I can."

Ala Mahmood Ibrahim, a Grade six student of the Al Fajr school, came first in the 4 km category for girls. "I was very scared when I saw that there were so many people," Ala said. She finished second last year and hoped to win this year.

Maria Omar, a Grade Eight student in the same school, said she enjoyed the race much.

"It is very good to see people from different countries all over the world coming together and showing their respect for Shaikh Zayed."

Hamad Al Hammadi, a 13-year-old with special needs who participated on behalf of the Zayed Higher Organisation for Humanitarian Care, said, "I feel tired but happy. I walked for 4 km."

Fathiha El Jharras, a Moroccan who took part in the 7 km race for women said, "It is the first time I m participating in this race and I think I will take part every year if possible."

"More and more people must take part," said Anna Perrill, who runs a private club in Dubai.