Zayed Marathon heads to Yas Circuit for second year

Abu Dhabi // Yas Marina Circuit will host this year’s Zayed Marathon for the second year, organisers announced on Tuesday.

Earnings from the marathon on March 21 will be donated to the Healthy Kidney Foundation. All proceeds from the Dh100 registration fee will go to the foundation, said Lt Gen Mohammed Al Kaabi, chairman of the Armed Forces Officers Club board of directors.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for people, whether they’re seasoned athletes or complete beginners, to come together for a great cause, have some fun and of course enjoy the fitness benefits. We are honoured to be continuing the work of Sheikh Zayed, raising money and awareness of the Healthy Kidney Foundation,” he said.

The Zayed Marathon honours the country’s founding President, an avid supporter of kidney charities, and is held under the patronage of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs.

The marathon will have two distance categories – 5 kilometres and 10km – and is open to all ages and nationalities. There will also be a 5km “Hand Cycle” race for competitors who use wheelchairs.

There is a prize fund of Dh250,000, with cash prizes awarded for first, second and third places in all events.

Last year 20,000 people raised a total of Dh500,000.