Abu Dhabi to hold first marathon

Abu Dhabi Sports Councils (ADSC) has announced a partnership with Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) to host the city’s first marathon.

The inaugural event will be held on December 7, with ADNOC holding naming rights for three years as a title sponsor.

“It may be the first of its kind in Abu Dhabi, but it will be second to none among established international marathons around the world. We expect a world-class elite field and participation of thousands of runners at various levels,” said chairman of the General Authority for Sports major general Mohammed Khalfan Al Rumaithi.

The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon will span 26 miles and “showcase the city of Abu Dhabi to a global audience”. Officials also hope it will promote interest in fitness and health in the local community.

The organisers expect elite international athletes, seasoned amateur runners and thousands of first-time marathon competitors.

Entry fees will range from Dhs50-75 ($14-$20) for shorter 2.5m and 5km fun runs, Dhs150 ($41) for the 10km and Dhs350 ($95) for the marathon itself.

Registration is open on www.adnocabudhabimarathon.com.

Abu Dhabi hosts a number of other annual sporting events including tennis and golf tournaments and the annual Abu Dhabi Grand Prix Formula One race.

Neigbouring Dubai has also held its own marathon each January since the year 2000.

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