Running News Daily

Doha Marathon by Ooredoo wins World Athletics Gold Label for second time

The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo has been awarded the prestigious World Athletics Gold Label designation, marking its second consecutive year of receiving this honour and reaffirming its position as one of the elite global road races.

The highly anticipated 13th edition, scheduled for January 17, 2025 is poised to be the largest ever, with over 15,000 participants expected.

The Gold Label designation reflects the marathon’s commitment to excellence, meeting the rigorous standards set by the World Athletics Label Road Races programme.These include world-class event organization, featuring advanced timing systems, anti-doping compliance, and comprehensive race amenities such as hydration stations, medical support, and recovery facilities.

In addition to adherence to safety protocols, and the participation of elite international athletes.With this recognition, the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo stands as a world-class road race offering runners numerous benefits, such as access to certified courses, and opportunities to earn global ranking points.The event also provides qualification opportunities for major international competitions, including the World Championships and the Olympics, while attracting significant global media coverage, enhancing visibility and prestige for participants.

Sabah Rabiah al-Kuwari, Vice-Chairman of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo Committee at Ooredoo Qatar, commented: “Earning the Gold Label designation for the second year in a row is a significant milestone for the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo and a testament to our commitment to excellence.

This Marathon has grown into a world-class event, uniting international elite athletes and local talent in a shared celebration of health, fitness, and community spirit. It not only enhances the prestige of the event but also further elevates Doha’s standing on the global sporting stage.”The race will feature an iconic route along Doha’s scenic Corniche, starting and finishing at Hotel Park, and will host world-renowned athletes such as Shura Kitata, Solomon Mutai, Roza Dereje, and Joan kipyatich.The event includes four race categories — 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km — ensuring opportunities for runners of all ages and abilities.

Competitors with disabilities can join races of up to 21km, with free registration available.The popular ‘Al Adaam’ category will also return for its third year next month, offering special cash prizes to encourage local athletes.

Since its inception in 2013, the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo has grown exponentially, reflecting Qatar’s thriving health and fitness culture and its status as a premier destination for major sporting events.

The event has become a local and regional landmark, attracting runners from around the world and contributing significantly to Qatar’s global sporting reputation.

(12/13/2024) Views: 531 ⚡AMP
by Gulf Times

Doha Marathon; Uganda’s Solomon Mutai won the elite men’s race and Kenyan long-distance runner Valary Jemeli Aiyabei in the women’s elite race

Solomon Mutai of Uganda emerged victorious in the top men's race of the 2024 Doha Marathon presented by Ooredoo on Friday morning. The bronze medalist from the 2015 Beijing Athletics World Championship finished the 42-kilometer event in two hours, twelve minutes, and forty-eight seconds. He finished ahead of Mesfin Negus of Ethiopia (2:13:12) and Awet Habte Ghebrezghiabher of Eritrea (2:13:00).

In the women's elite event, Kenyan long-distance runner Valary Jemeli Aiyabei triumphed. With a timing of 2:23:38, the seasoned marathoner—who has taken home gold in marathons at Barcelona, Belgrade, Valencia, Prague, Beijing, and Frankfurt—added Doha to her list of accomplishments.

Rediet Daniel Molla of Ethiopia placed third in 2:26:25, while her countryman Joan Kipyatich came in second in 2:23:45.

On that day, almost 13,000 competitors competed in a variety of races across varying distances. There were races in the full, half, 10 km, 5 km, and 1 km distances.

This year's tournament featured 25 participants from across the world and the Olympics.

The races began at 6.15 a.m. at the Hotel Park and ended at the starting point after taking a gorgeous course along the magnificent Corniche.

A total of QAR 500,000 in prize money was awarded to the victors of the Ooredoo Doha Marathon.

(02/17/2024) Views: 1,035 ⚡AMP

2023 Doha Marathon by Ooredoo a huge success with record-breaking numbers

DOHA: Ooredoo – a longstanding supporter of major sports events in Qatar – has announced that the 13th edition of its annual marathon, this year renamed the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo, was a roaring success. 

The event was a complete sell-out, with 8,000 runners taking their places at the start line on the morning of Friday, January 20, 2023. Runners took part in a variety of distance categories, from the 1km kids’ run to the full marathon. 

Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani, recently appointed CEO at Ooredoo Qatar, said: 

“Once again, we are delighted and proud to announce our annual marathon was a phenomenal success. As always, the event attracted some of the world’s top runners and was a complete sell-out, giving the opportunity for our local running enthusiasts to run alongside such sporting superstars. Thanks to the support of our partners and sponsors, we were able to ensure an incredible and upgraded experience for both runners and spectators alike, in line with Ooredoo’s commitment to promoting the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle as part of our corporate social responsibility strategy.”

A host of top international athletes took part, returning some incredible run times, with some athletes breaking their own personal records. 

Morocco’s Mohcin Outalha crossed the finish line first in the men’s marathon in a time of 2:06:49, with Kenyan Gevin Kerich taking second place with 2:06:52 on the clock. 

Kenyan Victor Kipchirchir and Ethiopian Adane Kebede finished in joint third place, registering a time of 2:06:54.

Ethiopian Meseret Belete took the top spot in the women’s marathon, clocking 2:20:45, with Desi Jisa Mokonin from Brunei finishing in second place with a time of 2:20:47. Kenyan Beatrice Cheptoo placed third with a time of 2:22:28.

In the open marathon category, the men’s race was won by Briton Michael Kallenberger with a time of 2:23:02, while the USA’s Abigail Cember took the top spot in the women’s race, clocking at 3:04:00. 

Qatari runners were once again able to enter the AlAdaam category this year. Abdulla Fahad Al Zarra won the men’s marathon with a time of 2:48:21, while Rabaah Al Musleh finished first in the women’s marathon with a time of 3:50:55. 

The men’s half marathon was won by Morocco’s Anouar El Ghouz in a time of 1:03:23, with Ukrainian Tetiana Pydoyna winning the women’s half marathon in 1:08:53. 

Mohammed Issa Al Fadalah, President of the Qatar Athletics Federation, said: 

“We extend our thanks to Ooredoo for once again hosting a phenomenal marathon that is consistently a highlight of Doha’s sporting calendar. Events such as these demonstrate Qatar’s suitability as the ideal venue for major sporting events, and this is only reinforced by the number of top international athletes who travel here to take part. We were delighted to see such an incredible turnout, and congratulate all runners on their sterling performances.” 

A total prize fund of QR1 million was on offer across all categories, with event sponsor Q-Auto also offering a Volkswagen T-Roc as a raffle prize to one lucky winner drawn from all those who finished their race in the 5km category and above. 

Sheikh Ali Bin Jabor Al Thani fired the starting gun for the Elite category and honored winners with their medals. Sabah Rabiah Al-Kuwari, Director PR at Ooredoo, joined QAF President Mohammed Issa Al Fadalah to present medals to winners in the other categories.

Spectators were able to enjoy the electric atmosphere from the many vantage points along the runner-friendly route, with the race village offering several food and beverage options and plenty of fun to be had by all. 

Platinum sponsors for the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2023 were confirmed as Qatar Tourism, Q-Auto and Holding Group, with Qatar Airways and Seashore as Gold sponsors. Silver Sponsors are Al Rayyan Water, Aspetar, QIC, and Qommunication. 

In line with Ooredoo’s commitment to supporting the community, all funds generated from registration fees for the 2023 Doha Marathon by Ooredoo will be donated to charitable organizations. 

(01/21/2023) Views: 1,630 ⚡AMP

Around 8,000 runners gear up for Ooredoo Doha Marathon

Over 20,000 runners have taken on the challenge of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo, and this year, many intent to join them.  

Around 8,000 runners are preparing for the much-awaited Ooredoo Marathon, scheduled to start in less than a week’s time.

Qatar’s most popular marathon, held annually since 2013, is finally coming back with yet another exciting challenge for all running enthusiasts in Doha. And as usual, the prize it holds is worth the effort.

“We’re rightfully proud that the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo is consistently one of the most popular events on Doha’s calendar year after year, but this pride must be shared with our invaluable sponsors, without whom we would be unable to present the race,” said Moza Khalid al-Muhannadi, director CSR, Sponsorship and Media at Ooredoo, at a press conference.

“We look forward to putting on yet another incredible event for Doha and for everyone taking part. Best of luck in the race.”

Some participants have told Doha News that the event, set to kick off on January 20, serves as a great motivation for them to improve their physical abilities and stamina to compete. Every year, it is a stronger challenge to be better.

“I participated two years ago for the first time and since then I always look forward to it. This year I even planned my workouts in a way that would make me faster and stronger to finish the full marathon,” Al Jazi, a two-time participant, said.

“I ran a lot of marathons abroad, but this one is different. You almost know everyone around you and it is such a warm, supportive environment. I can’t wait to reach the finish line.”

Others have praised Qatar’s efforts to organise such events that encourage sports and an active lifestyle. Over the past years, the Gulf state has focused extensively on promoting sports and physical activity as part of its 2030 vision.

World-class facilities have been built, major tournaments have been hosted, and various events have been taking place on an almost monthly basis, with great turnout from the community.

Qatar also holds Sports Day in high regards, declaring it an official national holiday to promote being active. Ooredoo marathon, on the other hand, is one of the most prominent national running event in the country.

“Every year I encourage more people to join me, and despite how hard it is, they all love it and come back. It’s one of those things that make you feel rewarded, and pushes you to achieve more and more,” Mohammed Hanni, a physical fitness instructor, told Doha News.

“I’ve been training a lot, so I’m very excited to hopefully break my own record this year.”

Start, end and timing

For this year, Al Jazi, as well as other runners, will start at Parade Pavilion, The Amir’s Grandstand in Al Corniche, and proceed to Katara, Lusail, and back to Al Corniche after the race.

The full marathon will begin at 6.15am, and the half marathon will follow at 7am. Starting at 8.30am, the 10km category will kick off, while the 5km will start at 9.30am.

Finally, at 10.30am, the 1-kilometer category for children will begin.

The 2023 marathon bags a total price of approximately QAR 1 million for all categories, and everyone who finishes their category will receive a medal to mark the achievement.

Special prizes will be awarded to Qatari entrants in each category.

Al-Muhannadi also disclosed that there would be a raffle with an SUV up for grabs. All competitors in the 5km, 10km, 21km, and 42km categories who cross the finish line will be entered into a raffle to win a Volkswagen T-Roc.

(01/16/2023) Views: 1,754 ⚡AMP
by Menatalla Ibrahim

2023 Ooredoo Doha Marathon is set to take place in january

This year’s edition is set to attract thousands of runners from 80 countries.

Ooredoo Doha Marathon, which is widely regarded as one of the most popular events on Doha’s sporting calendar, is set to take place on 20 January, 2023. 

The 11th iteration of the competition, which is listed on the World Athletics calendar, is being put together in collaboration with the Qatar Athletic Federation and Ooredoo, a longstanding promoter of sporting events.

This year’s event is expected to draw thousands of runners from 80 countries or more, including some of the world’s top athletes.   

Confirmed so far are Mohcin Outalha from Morocco as well as Yohans Mekasha, Hiribo Shano and Abiyote Abinet from Ethiopia, along with Desi Jisa Mokonin from Bahrain and Ebsite Tilahun from Ethiopia in the women’s race.

The world class athletes will be joined by keen runners of all levels from Qatar’s sporting community, as well as families looking for an active day out. 

The Ooredoo Doha Marathon 2023 features a variety of distances, ranging from a 1km children’s race to the full 42km marathon, as well as the Al-Adaam category for Qatari runners, which includes prizes for winning competitors.

 The total prize money for all categories amounts to more than 500,000 QAR.

An upgraded route will take runners past some of Doha’s most famous landmarks while avoiding excessive laps. 

Participants with disabilities will be able to run all distances up to and including 21.1km, with roads being closed for the duration of the event. 

A dedicated race village in Al Bidda Park will provide plenty of activities for families. 

A key upgrade for this year’s event will be integration with Nojoom, Ooredoo’s award-winning loyalty programme. Nojoom members can redeem Nojoom Points for entry to the event. 

People with disabilities can register for free and runners  who register as a group get a 20% discount.

The Marathon, which was first held in 2013 to encourage Qatari citizens and residents to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle, has become one of the most anticipated sporting events in Qatar, with over 18,000 runners taking part over the years.

The event draws large crowds of spectators who line the streets to cheer on the runners and enjoy the electric atmosphere and lively entertainment.

Participants can register for the Ooredoo Doha Marathon 2023 at https://www.ooredoo.qa/web/en/marathon/

(12/28/2022) Views: 1,482 ⚡AMP
by Doha News Team

2021 Ooredoo Doha Marathon postponed due to COVID-19

The much-anticipated annual event, which draws thousands of international and local runners and spectators each year, was scheduled to take place in January 2021. 

While restrictions have eased since full lockdown earlier in the year, organizers took the view that postponing until a later date would allow the best – and safest - possible event for all involved. 

A new date will be shared with all parties as soon as it has been decided. 

Sabah Rabiah Al-Kuwari, Director PR at Ooredoo, said: “The Ooredoo Doha Marathon is one of the most popular events on the sporting calendar in Doha, and it’s an incredible event every year.

It’s an honor for us to support it as part of our commitment to promoting a healthy, active lifestyle for all, which is a key feature of our corporate social responsibility strategy. While some sporting events are now going ahead, it was decided that in order to ensure everyone’s health and safety - but still put on an event of the calibre for which the Marathon is known - it’s in everyone’s interests to postpone until a later date.

We look forward to sharing this new date with everyone as soon as we can, and wish everyone the best of luck with their training in the meantime!” 

(12/02/2020) Views: 1,750 ⚡AMP
by Tribune News Network

Thousands of runners will take part in the 2020 Ooredoo Doha Marathon

More than 4,500 runners will take part in the 2020 Ooredoo Doha Marathon on January 10, organisers have announced.

The Ooredoo Doha Marathon is a popular highlight of the Doha sporting calendar, attracting professional athletes alongside a vast number of local runners. Last year’s event saw some 4,000 participants take to the streets for the race, which took place over a scenic course passing some of Doha’s most iconic landmarks. 

As well as the competitive full 42.2km marathon, the event includes distances for all ages and abilities, including a 1km family fun run and a 10km run. 

Ooredoo held a press conference at its headquarters, Ooredoo Tower in West Bay, in the presence of representatives from both Ooredoo and the sponsoring companies to announce the sponsors. 

For the 2020 Ooredoo Doha Marathon, the sponsors will be Huawei, North Oil, Qatar Airways, Aspire, Alkalive, Kidzania, QIC, Al Watan, CHOC’LATE and Aspetar. 

As in previous years, and in line with Ooredoo’s corporate social responsibility strategy, all funds raised through marathon entrance fees will be donated to charity. This year’s chosen beneficiary will be Qatar Cancer Society. 

Speaking of the sponsorships, Manar Khalifa al-Muraikhi – Director PR and Corporate Communications – said: “We’re delighted to be working with such an incredible group of sponsors as we prepare for what is always one of the most popular events on Doha’s sporting calendar. 

“Our corporate social responsibility strategy includes a clear mandate to support and promote sporting events that contribute to the development and maintenance of a healthy, balanced lifestyle, in line with the United Nations Sustainability Goals, and this event is an ideal way for us to show this support in a practical way.” 

She added: “Our sporting slogan is ‘Empowering you to win’ and, in organising this event, we believe we can empower people in Qatar to get out there, join in, be active and enjoy fitness. 

“We look forward to working with our sponsors to make the 2020 Marathon bigger and better than ever before and we thank them for their generous contribution.”Al-Muraikhi took the opportunity to thank the sponsors.

“We are beyond grateful to our sponsors of the Marathon. These invaluable partners enable us to create and host an incredible event for both the cream of the international running crop and for our local running community, an event that brings together elite athletes, keen runners and families who want to stay active together.”

(12/30/2019) Views: 2,618 ⚡AMP

Fast Start For Eilish McColgan at the Ooredo Event

Eilish McColgan has began 2018 with victory and a new 10k PB. The Scottish runner won the 10k at the Ooredoo event in Doha in a personal best time of 31.53 minutes. It was a dominant performance from the 27-year-old who finished more than eight minutes ahead of her nearest rival. Fellow Brits Rosie Brookes (4th), Michelle Grainger (7th) and Nicola Milan (9th) ensured there would be four UK runners in the top 10. (01/17/2018) Views: 1,859 ⚡AMP

Allie Kieffer Wins the Doha Half Marathon

Mo Farah was the star attraction at the Ooredoo Doha Half Marathon, and while he warmed up for the race, he did not start because of a tight achilles. Alex Kibet of Kenya got the win in 1:01:53 in his absence. Allie Kieffer, the surprise 5th place finisher at the 2017 TCS NYC marathon, who just signed a contract with Oiselle, showed she is in great form with a win in 1:10:40, lowering her PR from 1:14:13, (01/12/2018) Views: 2,014 ⚡AMP

Mo Farah's First 2018 Race Under New Coach

Sir Mo Farah will be running the Ooredoo Doha Half Marathon January 12 in Qatar's capital city, Doha. It will be his first race under his new coach, Gary Lough, who coached women´s marathon world record holder Paula Radcliffe. This will also be an important step towards the London Marathon in April 2018 where Farah will do battle with the Olympic champion Eliud Kipchoge. "I am looking forward to the event to test myself on the fast and flat run along Doha´s Corniche," says Farah. (12/14/2017) Views: 1,859 ⚡AMP