Abu Dhabi, UAE – In a spectacular display of community spirit and athleticism, the Zayed Charity Run in Abu Dhabi concluded its 2023 edition on Reem Island. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Representative of the Ruler in the Al Dhafra Region, the event attracted over 7,000 runners, both local and international, who gathered for a morning of competitive yet socially vibrant running.
Run for Kindness: A Global Tradition
The Zayed Charity Run, known for its commitment to “Run for Kindness,” brought together families, friends, and runners of all skill levels. The event’s atmosphere was a perfect blend of competition and camaraderie, with participants completing distances of 3, 5, and 10 kilometers under the sunny skies of Reem Island.
The charitable initiative, now spanning two decades, has become a global symbol of generosity and humanitarian giving. This year’s edition continued the legacy, with a total prize pool of AED 1 million distributed among winners based on category, distance, and race.
Top Performers and Categories
The race showcased exceptional athletic prowess, with winners in various categories posting impressive times. In the 10KM category, Hicham Amghar, Halefom Tesfay Kidanu, and Weyfen Dejene secured their places at the top. Abel Gete, Feyisa Tadese, and Tamirat Melka claimed victory in the 5KM category, while Yassir Ech-Chaachoui, Mosisa Siyoum, and Omar Al Ouahdani excelled in the 3KM category.
The event also featured categories like 10KM Handbike, 10KM Paracycling, 10KM Wheelchair, and 3KM POD, showcasing the inclusive nature of the Zayed Charity Run.
See results here.
Spreading Kindness Beyond Borders
Brigadier General (M) Mohamed Hilal Al Kaabi, head of the organizing committee, highlighted the global impact of the Zayed Charity Run. He emphasized the enduring legacy inspired by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, expressing gratitude for the support of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Al Kaabi announced that the next edition of the Zayed Charity Run will take place in the Arab Republic of Egypt, inviting participants to join and continue spreading the message of hope and solidarity.
A Message of Gratitude to Egypt
The decision to host the upcoming edition in Egypt is a gesture of gratitude for the country’s values and support for humanitarian projects. Al Kaabi acknowledged the historical ties and bonds of fraternity between the UAE and Egypt, noting the significant participation of Egyptian runners in previous editions.
A Sporting Legacy of Humanitarian Cooperation
Aref Hamad Al Awani, the Secretary-General of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasized the Zayed Charity Run’s role as a symbol of goodness and humanitarian giving. He highlighted its expansion to cities like New York and the upcoming edition in Kerala, India.
Al Awani praised the event for not only promoting a healthy lifestyle but also for contributing to charitable and humanitarian causes. The race’s proceeds this year supported the Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Center, furthering innovative treatments for cancer patients.
Supporting Cancer Research: A Noble Cause
Dr. Yendry Ventura, CEO of Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, expressed gratitude for the support, stating that the funds from the run would contribute to advancing medical care for cancer patients. He highlighted the shared mission of racing towards a future where cancer is conquered through clinical research and innovative treatments.
Looking Ahead: Zayed Charity Run in Egypt
With the Abu Dhabi edition successfully concluded, organizers are gearing up for the next leg of the series in the Arab Republic of Egypt on December 30, 2023. As the Zayed Charity Run continues its mission of kindness and giving, participants are encouraged to join the upcoming race in Cairo, signifying a collective commitment to humanitarian initiatives and a healthier world.
The Zayed Charity Run in Abu Dhabi once again demonstrated the power of sports in fostering unity, kindness, and a shared sense of purpose. The event’s success is a testament to the enduring legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the commitment of the community to making a positive impact on a global scale.
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