Posted: September 22, 2007

Athletics: Ras Al Khaimah to again host the world’s richest half marathon in February

• World Record Breaking Race Returns to Ras Al Khaimah • Prize money in excess of AED 650,000 up for grabs • The world’s best runners to take part in the RAK International Half Marathon Ras Al Khaimah September 22, 2007: Ras Al Khaimah will again host the world’s richest half marathon on February 08, 2008. The half marathon with an increased prize purse of US$ 180,000 will also continue to feature the best runners in the world. As in the inaugural edition, the race will be held under the Patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qassimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. The 21.0975 km course around the beautiful mountain city of Ras Al Khaimah is an approved AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) event. The event, which is open to all, will also feature a Team Relay Challenge that comprises 4 members who will run approximately 5 kms each. Also being featured is a strong charitable awareness program which raises money for the official charity and charities chosen by runners. More than 100,000dhs was collected in the previous race. Announcing the second edition of the RAK International Half Marathon, Nathan Clayton, Race Director said, “After the success of the first race which saw the UAE claim their first world record in road running this event has already proven its technical credibility, its quality as a destination event and its dedication to the residents of the UAE who love to run. The course remains superbly flat and for the 2008 edition has been modified to hopefully produce faster times. The event will continue to grow and remain an excellent opportunity not only for professional runners but also for the club runners, fun runners and everyone who wants to take up the challenge. It is inspiring to us to see so many people registering for the two races, this means more and more people will be getting out and training, and starting regular exercise regimes. A healthy population is a productive and well motivated population.” For registration information and to know more about the race itself visit www.rakmarathon.org. Registration closes on November 31, 2007 Subscribe to the Runner's Web Weekly Digest