Shaaban Bilal (Cairo)
Twenty-one years have passed since the launch of the first whistle of the Sheikh Zayed Marathon in the Emirates, after which he turned from a local idea launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, may God protect him, to a an event that runs through the great Arab world, in which thousands of young people, the elderly and children participate.
The marathon, which began its course in 2001, opens its doors to everyone, as there are short distances for men, women and children, and for professionals, a special run of over 10 kilometers, as well as a run for seniors. over 50, as well as people of race determination.
The winners of the People of Determination category for men and women of the latest edition of the event, which took place in the Egyptian city of Suez, speak to Al Ittihad of the great value of the marathon for young Arabs, especially as it gathers thousands of different Arab countries in one place.
Walid Al Hadidi, winner of the 2019 Zayed Marathon for People of Determination, says the marathon was a good gesture from the UAE. In addition to encouraging young people to exercise, he instills love among young Arabs when they meet different nationalities, all of whom he has come to play sports and gain new friends.
The young Egyptian participated in 3 previous versions of the marathon, booking a place in the first four places, and is now preparing to participate in the 2022 edition, which will be held in Alexandria next November, and plans to return to the top spot.
As for Hoda Al-Shorbagy, who won the Women of Determination category in the same year, she describes Sheikh Zayed’s marathon as a grand Arabian sporting celebration. She adds that the competition gains its importance as it allows the participation of non-professionals at the level of the Arab world, which is not the case in official Arab sports competitions.
Al-Shorbagy explains that the marathon is always an opportunity to make new friends with determined people from different Arab countries and cultures, and they plan to meet each time the marathon is held in a new city. Participate in it to become the most famous Arab marathon of recent years.
“It gives us hope and confidence in ourselves, and it gives us confidence that we live normal and healthy lives, and we can achieve the impossible and raise the trophies of victory.” This is how Al Shorbagy looks at the marathon, so she is training well in preparation for Sheikh Zayed’s marathon, as she is closest to her heart despite her participation in other marathons in Egypt.
