The members of the Abu Dhabi Striders running club are lacing up once again for their established Half Marathon and 10K charity runs.
Taking place on the iconic Yas Island on 8th November, the event will be aimed at helping the Special Care Centre, Abu Dhabi. And with the help of Yas Waterworld, Cleveland Clinic and Abu Dhabi Central Bank, event organisers believe this year’s race will be bigger and better than ever.
Steve Watson of Abu Dhabi Striders is excited by the potential for this year’s run.
“Abu Dhabi Striders is proud to support Abu Dhabi through our programme of events and training days to promote fitness and health throughout the community,” he said. “All this effort is made to support our chosen charity for children with intellectual and physical disabilities in the UAE through the Special Care Centre. The children thank you for your support and participation in this charity event.”
Event coordinator Jonty Summers explained how this year will once again highlight the fantastic efforts of Abu Dhabi residents.
“It’s a great venue for all our runners taking part,” he said. “The iconic structure of the Yas Viceroy hotel is part of the picturesque route, including the newly renovated Yas Marina. Last year we had 1,200 runners and this year we have reached our capacity of 1,500 which is incredible.”
Last year the Striders helped raise over AED 90,000 for chosen charities and Summers believes the support this year has grown even more.
“We have around 100 volunteers, mainly children manning the water stations along with many others helping out on the day. It’s such a great feeling knowing all of these people are here to help the Special Care Centre. The more supporters that come down the better!” added Summers.
For anyone who missed the deadline for this event, or those who weren’t prepared to run these distances, there are still plenty of spots for the 5K and 10K race at Zayed Sports City on 10th January 2014. For details on these races and if you would like to donate visit: www.abudhabistriders.com
