Sharjah 24: The 10th edition of the annual charity marathon organised by the Friends of Arthritis Patients (FAP) of the Health Promotion Department (HPD) at the Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah came to a successful conclusion on Sunday with more than 5,000 male and female runners taking part in the event.
For four thrilling hours, Al Mamzar Beach in Sharjah was transformed into a bustling arena of athleticism and sportsmanship as runners from all walks of life took part in the marathon.
The marathon was inaugurated in the presence of Her Excellency Wahida Abdulaziz, Chairperson of FAP, Mohammed Abdullah Al Zarouni, Director of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) Representative Office in Sharjah, and Eng. Fathi Jabr Afaneh, General Manager of Fast Contracting Company.
Under the theme "Physical Activity is Life," the marathon was held with the support and sponsorship of 24 government and private entities, in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Sharjah Police, and Sharjah Sports Council. A total of 126 winners from the top three spots in each category were crowned, celebrating their incredible achievements in the race.
"We are thrilled to see such a great turnout and outstanding participation at the marathon, which is a testament to its positive impact on the community. It is a leading sports and health event and festival at the state level, and a distinguished event that supports the quality-of-life index in the Emirate of Sharjah. The marathon plays a crucial role in motivating community members to engage in sports activities, mobilising institutional and community efforts to promote a healthy environment in the Emirate, and fostering a culture of community cooperation and volunteer work to support patients. I would like to express my gratitude to all the sponsors and volunteers who helped make this event a success, and I extend my warmest congratulations to the winners of the marathon." said Her Excellency Wahida Abdulaziz.
Amidst a backdrop of stunning scenery on Al Mamzar Beach in Sharjah, the marathon featured an array of exciting activities, including a captivating display of the Flyboard, which left spectators awestruck.
In addition to live shows of self-defense sports, there were also numerous exercises and recreational activities on offer. The participating health authorities, led by the Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Health Promotion Department, provided many free medical tests and health consultations, adding immense value to the event.
The marathon made history with the participation of a 94-year-old man, who became the oldest competitor to take part in the event. As participants pushed themselves to their limits, seeking to prove their physical abilities and emerge victorious, the spirit of competition was palpable in the air.
In recognition of their valuable efforts and constructive cooperation in making the marathon a grand success, the organising committee of the event honoured the partners and cooperating institutions.
The honorees included the Ministry of Health and Prevention, Sharjah Police, Sharjah Sports Council, Sharjah Charity International, Sharjah International Marine Sports Club, Sharjah Radio and Television Authority, Emirates Red Crescent, Sharjah Center for Voluntary Work, Fast Building Contractors, and Alqudra Sports Management, as well as several government and private agencies. Their unwavering support and tireless efforts were instrumental in ensuring the smooth execution of the marathon.
Over 300 volunteers, from Emirates Red Crescent and Sharjah Center for Voluntary Work as well as volunteers from various entities, departments, and institutions, also took part in the event to help both participants and the spectators.
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