Nawara Fattahova / Kuwait Times

Kuwait, Jul 28: The Kuwait Olympic Committee held its first ever Olympic Day Run on Sunday. It was held under the patronage of Sheikh Fahad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the State Minister for Development Affairs and State Minister for Housing. There were seven categories in all; three for men, three for women, and one that was strictly held for disabled men. The race kicked off at 5:30 pm from the Marina Mall for men and the disabled categories and ended at the Green Island at a five kilometers distance. Female participants had to complete a three kilometers race that began from the Swimming Pools Complex to the Green Island.

Participation was open to all, including athletes from sports clubs and organizations. Also, participants had to pass a compulsory medical examination. The first three winners from each category received trophies, medals, and cash prizes. They also received certificates from the International Olympic Committee(IOC).

More than 200 people participated in this race. "I didn't expect such large attendance since it is very hot. This encourages us to hold this race next year again. Such races are held all over the world, and this is the first time it was held in Kuwait, as suggested by the International Olympic Committee(IOC). We are glad that no bouts of illness occurred during the race and all the participants were in good health," Obaid Al-Anezi, Secretary General of the Kuwait Olympic Committee told the Kuwait Times.

Participation by women was much less when compared to men. "In my opinion, the participation was good. I'm participating not to win the first place but to enjoy the sport and to change the routine. I walk alone almost every day. So for me, this was a change. I have participated in different marathons and walkathons held in Kuwait, and I think it's healthy," noted Naima Al-Haay, one of the winners.

Most participants were participating for fun. "Although the weather is hot, I had fun participating in this race. On the way, I saw some girls who had stopped a while as they were trying to take rest. I encouraged them to continue the race, and they did. I really enjoyed it," stated Nuha, another winner.

The race wasn't sponsored by any private company. It was held in participation with the Kuwait Athletics Association.