OVER 20,000 JOIN SFA'S 2024 RIYADH MARATHON

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 15 (Bernama) -- More than 20,000 participants from 125 countries, including a record 60 per cent Saudi nationals, took part in the third edition of the Riyadh Marathon on Feb 10, an increase of more than 33 per cent, with 15,000 runners compared to last year.

According to Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) in a statement, for the first time, the start and finish line, as well as the accompanying Marathon Village, were located next to Kingdom Arena and Boulevard World.

Competitors of all ages and abilities enjoy one of four races namely the full marathon which is 42.2 kilometres (km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km, and four km family run, with a significant increase in female runners, exceeding 7,200.

“The remarkable figure of 36 per cent female participation underscores our concerted efforts to empower women through sports, and helps to realise the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030. This milestone achievement heralds a brighter, healthier future,” said SFA Managing Director, Shaima Saleh Al-Husseini.

The top three elite male marathon runners were Kigen Wilfred Kirwa of Kenya, Tilahun Abe Gashahun of Ethiopia, and El Ghouz Anouar of Morocco, who were awarded US$30,000, US$20,000, and US$10,000 respectively. (US$1=RM4.78)

Meanwhile, the top three female elite marathon runners, receiving the same amounts, were Badane Bedatu Hirpa, Desta Nigist Muluneh, and Jebesa Zenebu Fikadu, all from Ethiopia. Prizes for elite runners in the half marathon started at US$5,000 for first place.

The event was organised by SFA in collaboration with the Ministry of Sport, the Saudi Arabian Olympic & Paralympic Committee, and the Saudi Arabian Athletic Federation.

-- BERNAMA