- Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon returns to Al Marjan Island for the 14th edition
- Registrations for the much-anticipated Half Marathon are officially open
- The race attracts world-class athletes and amateurs from around the world
- One-day mega event brings together local community, children and families for the best sporting day out
- Total prize fund increased to AED 1,219,000
- Introducing a new team-timed category and a new race format for kids and families
Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority today announced that the 14th edition of the hugely popular Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon will return to Al Marjan Island on February 21, 2020. Professional and amateur runners can now sign up for the world’s fastest half marathon to take part in different tailored races for all abilities, and have a memorable experience in a stunning location.
With preparations currently underway, the annual premier road race is all set to welcome runners from around the world. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Gulf, the stunning Al Marjan Island will host the action-packed sporting event where participants will be treated to pristine views of white sandy beaches and the shimmering ocean along the running route.
The popular half marathon will host a variety of race categories, including elite runners, club and recreational runners, people of determination and juniors. Additionally, Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is introducing a new relay race category for the first time; allowing two participants to take turns in completing the distance in a timed format. Families can also enjoy this event with a 1 KM Fun Run designed for children, allowing one parent to accompany the child at no extra cost.
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority said, “The 14th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon will return to the beautiful Al Marjan Island. Having attracted a record-level of participants in this year’s edition, we can’t wait to see the response to the event in 2020. The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon has remained a crowd favourite for more than a decade, with an astounding number of returning participants demonstrating the event’s stature and coveted success. As preparations are currently underway and registrations now open, we are very excited about the future of this annual sporting event and look forward to revealing more details in due course.”
Abdullah Al Abdooli, CEO of Marjan said, “We are delighted to support Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, a world-class event that welcomes participants from across the globe, and further cements the reputation of Ras Al Khaimah as one of the region’s premier sporting, lifestyle, tourist and residential destinations. With Al Marjan Island, our flagship development hosting the event, participants are assured of a picturesque backdrop for the race. The event will once again put the global spotlight on Al Marjan Island, a premier touristic resort and residential destination of choice. We welcome all participants to Ras Al Khaimah and look forward to another successful edition of the premier road race.”
RAKTDA recently entered into an agreement with a new event partner, Italy-based RCS Sport and Events, with the mandate to organise the next edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon. Founded in 1989, RCS Sport and Events has earned a strong reputation for organising some of the biggest road cycling events such as the Giro d’Italia and UAE Tour as well as running events such as the Milano Marathon in Italy and ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon.
Enrico Fili’, CEO of RCS Sports and Events said, “The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is undoubtedly one of the largest sporting events in the Emirate that brings together passionate runners from around the world. We are proud to support Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority for the first time and committed to delivering an unforgettable experience to the running community.”
With a focus on fostering a community ambience, Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon will ensure participants experience the best sporting day out for the whole family, against the most scenic backdrop within Al Marjan Island.
The 13th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, which took place earlier this year, was the biggest edition to date and attracted more than 3,600 participants of all ages and fitness levels. It was the first time that the event was held on its brand-new race course at Al Marjan Island.
Further details including the full spectrum of community activities will be unveiled soon. Interested participants can now register on the official website: www.therakhalfmarathon.com