Thousands to take part in Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon

AMMAN — Under the patronage of HRH Prince Firas Bin Raad and the organisation of Run Jordan, the Ayla Red Sea Half Marathon kicks off on Friday with the participation of thousands of runners from around the world.

The event held under the theme “Run for a Cause”, will witness the participation of more than 500 students from different public schools in Aqaba as part of Run Jordan’s agreement with The Ministry of Education.

Lina Kurd, Run Jordan general manager, told The Jordan Times that all preparations are complete to host one of the most popular events in running.

“We are really excited to start the race which will host thousands of runners who will be part of supporting several organisations such as Al Haya Charitable Association for Wheat Allergic Patients in Aqaba and at the same time facilitate the participation of members of Ajyal Society for the Physically Handicapped,” she said.

“This year marks the 13th anniversary of Ayla event. The marathon will witness a huge participation from our Jordanian athletes and amateurs, regional and international runners; the thing that will help us shed light on sports tourism to promote Aqaba as a world class Red Sea attraction,” she added.

The race consists of three categories: 21km, 10km Fun Run and 4.2km Children’s Race. The starting point for the 21km race will be the Intercontinental Hotel and end at Revolution Square (Sahet Al Thawra). The 10km event will start before the north gate of Ayla project towards Revolution Square and the 4.2km will start from Ayla as well through Al Farouq Street towards the Revolution Square.

Last year, Jordanian runners dominated the event with Ahmad Samour clocking 1h 06m 43s to take the first place in the male overall 21km followed by Ayman Al Sardy with 1h10m20s in the second place and Abdulla Al Soud settled in the third place with 1h10m23s.