600 runners take part in community running event

Observer

17-03-2025

MUSCAT: The community running event, organised by the Oman Automobile Association in collaboration with the Oman Athletics Association (OAA), witnessed a large turnout from various groups, with approximately 600 runners of all ages participating. Supported by several private companies, the event was one of the most prominent community sports gatherings in Oman. It aimed to promote a culture of sports, facilitate knowledge exchange and create an environment that encourages continued athletic achievements.
The event featured three main races. In the men's 5-kilometre race, Nader Ismail secured first place, followed by Hassan Hisham in second, and Salim al Rashdi in third. In the women's category, Arlene claimed first place, with Gina al Hibal in second and Hanan al Jahmani in third. Meanwhile, in the family race, Al Jabri's team took first place, followed by Al Rawahi's team in second and Suhail's team in third.
The primary goal was to create an inclusive sporting environment that encourages everyone to adopt an active lifestyle.
The event also included an interactive panel discussion featuring a distinguished line-up of Omani athletes. Participants included runner Saleh al Saidi, coach Haitham al Salhi, runner Barakat al Harthy, runner Yaqoub al Nadabi, mountaineer Nadhira al Harthy, and runner Fahd al Abri. The discussion was moderated by Riyadh al Hinai.
The athletes shared their experiences in the world of sports, discussing the physical and mental challenges they faced, such as injuries, pressure and periods of limited support, and how they overcame these obstacles with determination and perseverance. They also highlighted the importance of continuous self-improvement and the role of sports in shaping character, instilling discipline, and fostering commitment. The panellists encouraged young athletes to pursue their ambitions and strive for success.
The event was one of the most prominent community sports gatherings in Oman.
ALL-ROUND PARTICIPATION
OAA Chairman Said al Hajri expressed his delight at the success of the community event. He noted the widespread participation, which included professional and amateur runners as well as families who saw the event as an opportunity to strengthen family bonds through sports. He explained that the event featured a 1.5-km family relay race in addition to the 5-km race, which was open to all running enthusiasts. The primary goal was to create an inclusive sporting environment that encourages everyone to adopt an active lifestyle.
Al Hajri added: "Registration was open for only four days, yet we reached 600 participants, reflecting the strong passion for sports in our community. This widespread participation underscores the importance of physical activity across all age groups and reinforces the concept of sports as a way of life, especially among the younger generations."
The widespread participation underscores the importance of physical activity across all age groups.
He emphasised that the event was not just a race but a step towards building a generation of athletes capable of representing Oman on international platforms. He stated that the OAA follows a long-term strategy to develop athletics and elevate it to a global level. In this context, the idea of holding the event during Ramadhan was developed in collaboration with the Oman Automobile Association, and it was presented in an innovative way that contributed to its success and attracted a large number of participants.
Al Hajri also revealed future plans, announcing that a new edition of the event will be held in November, maintaining the same successful format but in a different location to attract even more participants. He stressed that the association provides opportunities for all age groups — whether professionals, amateurs, or families — to participate and engage with others, fostering a spirit of competition and sportsmanship.
He concluded by saying, "We believe that such events will play a crucial role in advancing sports in Oman, not only by promoting a running culture but also by discovering and refining athletic talents capable of representing Oman in the future.