Ooredoo hosted a special press conference to unveil
the specifics of the upcoming Doha Marathon by Ooredoo, scheduled on Friday, 16
February 2024. Now a prestigious World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, this
year’s marathon is set to welcome over 10,000 participants. The event will
witness the return of brand ambassador and Olympic high jump champion, Mutaz
Barshim, alongside an elite field of athletes vying for glory.

The conference saw the presence of representatives
from supporting and sponsoring entities, diverse media organisations, and the
company’s brand ambassador, current Olympic and World Champion Mutaz Barshim.

The significant details of the marathon, recognised
as the largest community sporting event in Qatar, were unveiled during the
conference.

With six race categories, the event is designed to be inclusive,
catering to all ages and abilities—from the full marathon to junior and kids’
races. Competitors with disabilities are enthusiastically encouraged to join,
making the marathon a true representation of inclusivity and community spirit.
The race timings are as follows with the Marathon beginning at 6:15am, Half
Marathon at 7:30am, 10KM at 8:30am, 5KM at 9:10am, Junior 5KM (13–17-year-olds)
at 9:10am, and Kids 1KM (Under 13-year-olds) at 10:30am. 

This year’s event features an exciting Al ADAAM category in partnership
with the Social & Sport Contribution Fund (DAAM), bestowing special awards
to encourage local athletes. Two new Volkswagen cars will also be given away as
prizes, with all participants who finish their race being entered into the
raffle. One of two cars will be allocated to the “Al ADAAM” category.

The race will begin and end at Hotel Park, providing a scenic route
along the picturesque corniche—offering a more enjoyable, safer, and upgraded
experience for both runners and spectators. ‘The Race Village’ at Hotel Park
will be open for five days starting on Monday February 12, ahead of Qatar
National Sport Day.

The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo has grown exponentially since 2013,
aligning with Qatar’s flourishing health and fitness industry and the nation’s
growing stature in hosting major sporting events. The global media coverage it
garners also plays a crucial role in reinforcing Qatar’s tourism industry.
Having achieved the World Athletics Gold Label, the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo
now stands among the elite global road races, offering qualification
opportunities for international events such as the Boston Marathon.

Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Director of PR, Sponsorships, and CSR at Ooredoo
Qatar, commented, “The overwhelming participation across all categories
underscores the event’s appeal not just to elite athletes but to our entire
community embracing active lifestyles. Our 5KM race alone has attracted over
3,000 runners, reflecting the marathon’s inclusive nature. This marathon is a
key platform to advocate for a healthy lifestyle and community engagement for
everyone. I would also like to express sincere gratitude to our sponsors and
supporters, who are essential partners in the success of the marathon, for
their contributions that are playing a crucial role in ensuring the marathon’s
excellence.”

Mr. Mohammed Issa Al Fadala, Qatar Athletics
Federation President, added, “We are proud to
see the Doha Marathon ascend to World Athletics Gold status, joining the ranks
of renowned marathons worldwide. This elevates not only the event but also the
city of Doha on the international sporting stage”. Al Fadala stated that this
year will see the participation of several elite international runners,
promising intense competition similar to last year.

Mr. Abdullah Al Dosari, representative of the Ministry of Sports and
Youth and Director of Sports Activities and Events at the Qatar Sports for All Federation, confirmed
that The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2024 builds upon the success of a renowned
community athletics event that has held a prominent position in the sports
scene for numerous years. The continuous growth in participant numbers across
various age groups each year highlights the significant role of sports in
society.

The support of the Ministry of Sports and Youth, along with the Social
and Sports Activities Support Fund (DAAM), for such athletic endeavours
underscores their commitment and recognition of the significance of sports
within the community. The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2024 holds a pivotal
position in the calendar of athletic events, both within and beyond the State
of Qatar.

Participation in the Marathon has been made inclusive
for all segments of society, particularly with the introduction of the Support
category. This addition aims to encourage Qatari youth to join the marathon,
enhancing their opportunities to reach the podium.

The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo is sponsored by Official Supporter, DAAM;
Supporting Partners, the Ministry of Interior, Qatar Athletics Federation and
the Qatar Sports for All Federation; Platinum Sponsors, Qatar Tourism, Qatar
Airways, Asics, Doha Expo, and Volkswagen; Gold Sponsors, The View Hospital and
Qatar Insurance Company; and Silver Sponsors, Al Rayan Water and Qommunication.
Their help has not only been instrumental in orchestrating such a large-scale
and prestigious event but have also played a crucial role in fostering
community spirit and promoting a healthier lifestyle in Qatar.

All of Qatar’s community is invited to join in the festivities, whether
as participants or spectators, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and
camaraderie that the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo promises.