Abu Dhabi Marathon 2023 Kicks Off Tomorrow With Elite Athletes And Community Involvement

The Abu Dhabi Marathon's seventh edition is set for Saturday, 13th December. Organised by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and sponsored by ADNOC, it will feature elite international athletes, professional runners, and community members. The event promotes sport and encourages healthy lifestyles. The Elite Marathon race covers 42.195 kilometres, starting at 05:45 from Zayed Sports City.

The marathon route includes iconic landmarks such as Capital Gate, ADNOC Headquarters, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Qasr Al Hosn, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It concludes at Zayed Sports City. Age-group races and a two-runner relay begin at 06:00. The 10-kilometre race starts at 06:15, while the 5-kilometre and 2.5-kilometre races also commence at 06:00.

The total prize fund for the marathon exceeds US$300,000. Winners of the Elite Marathon in both men's and women's categories will receive US$50,000 each. In the wheelchair category, winners will be awarded US$3,150. There are also prizes for second and third places and awards for the 10-kilometre race.

The ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon Village will operate on race day from 05:00 to 13:00 behind ADNOC Headquarters. It features sponsor pavilions, fitness sessions, yoga classes, sports activities, children's zones, and live entertainment.

A press conference for elite runners took place on 11th December at the Marathon Village. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan attended alongside senior council and ADNOC officials. The women's elite field includes Kenyan Katherine Amanang’oli, Kenyan Sandra Toy, and Eritrean Dolchi Tekleghirgish.

The men's elite race features Kenyan Eric Keptanoy, Turkish runner Kaan Ozbilin, and Kenyan Mike Boit. Talal Al Hashemi of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council praised the partnership with ADNOC for delivering a world-class marathon that reflects UAE values.

Sponsors and Community Impact

Saif Al Falahi of ADNOC stated that the marathon celebrates community spirit, fitness, and resilience. The event is sponsored by several organisations including Nike, Tadweer, National Health Insurance Company – Daman, Burjeel Medical City, Vitamin Well, Al Ain Water among others.

The marathon continues to strengthen its position on the global sports calendar while promoting a healthy lifestyle within the community.

With inputs from WAM