Run Oman, run

@kabeeryousef -

Come February 11, thousands of men and women and children will be seen racing against each other to raise awareness on 'living healthy' and extending a hand for charity.

It's Almouj Muscat Marathon season and excitement is mounting as a few more weeks are left for the much-awaited 2022 version of the race that will also see people speaking many of the world's languages meet each other within the Covid protocols and exchange their experiences.

“It's all about supporting body and mind by setting goals, committing to a routine, and rising to the challenge. This event offers an opportunity to join thousands of others from around the world and reconnect with a passionate community of athletes, friends, and colleagues through sport," says Sayyid Aymen al Busaidi, Vice Chairman of Sabco Group, the organisers of the Al Mouj Muscat Marathon.

The first Muscat Marathon held in 2012 was organised by 'Muscat Road Runners' and 135 runners took part in it. When it reached 10th edition in 2022, the response has grown really big and nearly 10,000 registrations have been made so far, according to the organizers.

The two-day running race will have five different categories to choose from, ranging from full and half marathons of 42.5km and 21.1km respectively, to 5km and 10km runs and a kids’ run of 1km, 2km and 3km. Each course has been designed with different fitness and experience levels in mind, ensuring there are opportunities for runners of all ages to be a part of Oman’s biggest race.

All the races were all certified by world-running organisation AIMS, aligning the event with International Association of Athletic Federation (IAAF) standards. The Charity Fun Run 5km saw thousands of runners raise money for good causes and the Kids’ Run sold out in record time!

Oman's celebrated goalkeeper Ali al Habsi, and renowned television host, Ibtihal al Zadjali are the star attractions of this year's event that will host runners from across Oman and the GCC region, the organisers said.

"Almouj Muscat Marathon is Oman's biggest running event and proving to be as popular as ever. The positive response is a clear indication that excitement levels are incredibly high for Oman’s most popular sporting event," said Nasser bin Masoud al Sheibani, CEO of Al Mouj Muscat.

Oman has an increasing number of obesity and overweight and the simple message of such a mega sporting event for people is to take the Marathon as a launching pad and make running a part of life towards a healthy lifestyle, according to veteran runners.