ABU DHABI // Runners are being invited to enter next month's Zayed Marathon to raise money for charity.
Fees and donations from the event - 5-kilometre and 10km races rather than a full 42km - will go towards supporting kidney organisations across the UAE.
The race is held in memory of the country's founding President, Sheikh Zayed, who underwent a kidney transplant in the United States in 2000.
Both runs also offer three cash prizes - Dh10,000 for first place, Dh7,000 for second and Dh5,000 for third place.
The top three runners will also receive trophies and all entrants will be able to download a certificate stating their finish time following the race.
Arabic and western performers will entertain entrants and spectators in the Athletes' Village, which will also boast free children's activities, food and beverage stalls and educational booths.
The run is being held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.
It is being organised by the Armed Forces Officers Club in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and Abu Dhabi Health Services Company.
In its nine-year history, the Sheikh Zayed Marathon has raised more than US$37 million (Dh136m) to support kidney patients.
Registration costs Dh100 and runners will receive a timing chip, finisher shirt and race number. Entrants must be at least 16.
The race is at the Formula One Grand Prix track at Yas Marina Circuit and begins at 4pm on January 31.
For more information or to register, visit yasmarinacircuit.com or www.premieronline.com/event/ZayedMarathon.
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