Grab those running shoes because Saudi Arabia is gearing up for its very first full marathon! The Riyadh Marathon 2022 will feature several races for all types of participants, and is set to take place on March 5. The event is being hosted by the Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA), in partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Sport, Quality of Life Program and the Saudi Arabian Athletic Federation.
The running distance of this full marathon covers an area of 42km, but there are also other options including the half-marathon measuring just 21km, 10km for beginners, and 4km for kids. The winners will receive cash prizes worth over SAR 1 million (or over $260,000).
In fact, the SFA is expecting over 10,000 participants to take part in the event. When the Riyadh Marathon was first announced in November 2021, Prince Khaled Bin Alwaleed, President of SFA, stated that the event was looking forward to receiving participants from across the Kingdom, and around the world.
Currently, last-minute tickets are selling on the Riyadh Marathon's official website with the main marathon going for SAR 199, half-marathon for SAR 119, the 10km race for SAR 99, and 4km for SAR 79. Results will be made available on the website, with participants given the option to print their completion certificates online. You can learn more at riyadhmarathon.org
In addition to the races, spectators will also be treated to refreshments, entertainment, and recreation, offering plenty to do over the weekend. In fact, the Riyadh Marathon falls under the Quality of Life goals set by Vision 2030. It aims at getting more Saudis involved in social activities such as sport and cultural events.
