More than 1,000 runners hit the streets of Beirut on Sunday morning for the city’s first major distance race since Covid-19 forced Lebanon into lockdown.
Organisers said the event message, “Raise The Bar", was a call to action for women to persevere as the country grapples with multiple crises.
One hundred per cent of the 40,000 Lebanese Lira ($4) entry fees were donated to StandforWomen, an NGO working to empower women in Lebanon.
With the country still suffering from the pandemic while grappling with a suffocating economic crisis, the race along Beirut's crumbling waterfront, damaged in the Beirut Port blast in August, provided a rare moment of hope.
Almost 700 competitors took part in a women’s only 10-kilometre race, while 337 entrants ran in the half marathon. Four-time Olympian Chirine Njeim dominated the 10k race, setting a new record, while the women’s half marathon was won by Kathia Rashed. Bilal Awada took first place in the men’s half marathon.
The races have attracted a host of Lebanon’s rich and famous, Prime Minister-designate Saad Hariri competed in 2016.
One of the most prestigious road races in the region, the annual marathon used to attract more than 47,000 participants. However, anti-government protests led to it being cancelled in 2019 and it too fell victim to the pandemic in 2020.
What vitamins do we know are beneficial for living in the UAE
Vitamin D: Highly relevant in the UAE due to limited sun exposure; supports bone health, immunity and mood.
Vitamin B12: Important for nerve health and energy production, especially for vegetarians, vegans and individuals with absorption issues.
Iron: Useful only when deficiency or anaemia is confirmed; helps reduce fatigue and support immunity.
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Seek professional advice from a legal expert
You can report an incident to HR or an immediate supervisor
You can use the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation’s dedicated hotline
In criminal cases, you can contact the police for additional support
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