ABU DHABI: The fifth edition of the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is set to take place on Saturday morning, with a record-breaking 25,000 runners, from 168 nationalities, participating alongside a host of elite athletes.

At a press conference held at the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon – Event Village, located behind the ADNOC Tower, the Marathon organising committee confirmed the completion of the preparations for the event and the most prominent international runners, male and female, were revealed.

Organised by Abu Dhabi Sports Council and ADNOC, the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is recognised as one of the Middle East’s premier marathon events, with a prize fund of $303,000. Among the elite athletes taking part this year will be Uganda’s Andrew Kwemoi, winner of the 2023 Milano Marathon, Kenya’s Ilham Tanui Ozbilen and Emily Kipchumba.

Suhail Al-Arifi, Executive Director of the Events Sector at Abu Dhabi Sports Council, said, ‘The remarkable confirmed participation this year of more than 25,000 runners signifies the su
bstantial growth of the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon over the years. With 168 nationalities represented at the race, including an intriguing elite line up, it showcases the event’s significance locally and globally.’

Al-Arifi added, ‘This fifth time organising and hosting the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon is certainly a special occasion. The marathon route will take you on a tour around the most famous landmarks in our beautiful capital, starting from the ADNOC headquarters, passing through the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Al Hosn Palace, and the World Trade Centre.’

Beyond its burgeoning reputation as a platform for global athletic excellence, this year’s marathon incorporates several eco-initiatives dedicated to promoting sustainability. The organisers have pledged their commitment to ensure, wherever feasible, a positive impact of the event on the community and environment.

The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon caters to various fitness levels, offering race categories including the marathon (42.195 km), marathon relay, 10
km, 5km, and 2.5km. All races will commence at different locations near the ADNOC headquarters on Corniche Road and finish at the ADNOC Campus, near Bainuna Public Park.

The daily Marathon Village, hosted at the ADNOC Campus, is accessible until race day, from 15:00 to 22:00. The free-to-enter facility promises an immersive experience for visitors with entertainment, a wide array of eating options, activations, and services.
Source: Emirates News Agency