Dubai Holding yesterday announced that distance runner and Asian Games gold medallist, Alia Mohammed Saeed has confirmed her participation in the 5th Dubai Holding Women's Run on November 7th. The Emirati runner recently won the 10,000 metres in South Korea, taking 40 seconds off her national record.
Dubai Holding said it has allocated Dh90,000 annually for this event as part of a five year Dh5 million agreement signed with the U.A.E. Athletics Federation to position the race as Dubai's official women's international run. In 2013, Dubai Holding instituted special cash prizes for U.A.E. national runners in both the 10K and the 5K races to promote an active lifestyle among the Emirati population and increase their participation.
Cedric Betis, Chairman of Dubai Holding Wellness Committee, said, "The Dubai Holding Women's Run supports the government's initiative to encourage healthy living in the U.A.E. and our sponsorship demonstrates our commitment to further spreading our wellness message to the wider community. We are proud to be investing in our community by supporting events like this that empower women and encourage them to live an active life." Over 6,000 participants are expected at this year's Dubai Holding Women's Run. Liesa Euton, Race Director of the Dubai Holding Women's Run, said, "I am excited to see such a large number of registrants and want to encourage more women to join us. Dubai Holding Women's Run has established itself as a major sports event in the regional calendar, with runners traveling from far and wide to take part."
Source: WAM