Dubai, United Arab Emirates – 17^th February, 2019: This weekend saw the first ever Dubai Canal Run kick off early on Friday morning alongside the sunrise. Over 1,000 participants of all ages and fitness levels came together to exercise and start the year on a healthier note, in the scenic surroundings of the Dubai Canal.

The Dubai Canal Run, sponsored by Oman Insurance Company & Bupa Global was set against the backdrop and silhouette of the city’s most iconic skyscrapers and cutting-edge architecture. The race was welcomed by Dubai’s athletic community and professional runners, but also saw families and children of all ages and backgrounds getting involved, whether they walked or ran their way to the finish line.

The Dubai Canal Run was an Oman Insurance Company and Bupa Global initiative brought to support positive change throughout people’s daily lives, encouraging them towards a more active and healthier lifestyle with the aim to prevent sedentary lifestyle diseases, such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Oman Insurance Company and Bupa Global partnered with the American Hospital in Dubai as their exclusive healthcare partner to provide onsite support and information including four nurses to run free of charge BMI, cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar tests for all the race participants as part of a prevention and health education initiative.

Mr. Samer Sawaya, Head of Customer Services at Oman Insurance Company and Bupa Global said: “It’s been a pleasure to witness the commitment and effort of the race participants – the elderly and young people, pros and beginners – walked, jogged and ran their way around the impressive canal course. Most importantly, the air was bursting with energy and positivity. It was truly wonderful sight to see everyone at the finish line.”

He continued, “This really embodies what we stand for. Our purpose is to help people live longer, healthier, happier lives.”

A participant expressed his excitement at completing his first 10k run. He explained, “I was hesitant at first about being able to complete the 10k race as it was the first time I had attempted such a long distance. I’m not very athletic but my new year’s resolution was to physically push myself harder and this run was the perfect opportunity to prove my body was capable. I’m so happy to have completed it, as well as being able to motivate myself to keep going.”

 

Mr. Allan Boston, Chief Executive Officer at American Hospital Dubai Said: “We’d like to thank our partner Oman Insurance Company and Bupa Global for giving us the opportunity to be their exclusive health partner at the first ever Dubai Canal Run this weekend. It’s about more than just running; it’s about sustainable health and wellness. Our goal is to encourage healthy events and regular exercise, which helps keep blood sugar levels stable, reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases and improves one’s general well-being. At American Hospital Dubai, we believe that paying a little more attention to health and wellness means a happier, more enjoyable life for everyone.”

Based on their fitness levels, participants were able to complete one of three runs: a 1km, 5km, and a 10km race for those who wanted to challenge their abilities and complete the entire course. Runners were looked after with water and aid stations throughout the course to ensure their safety, whilst they were spurred on by friends and family.

At the finish line, many young participants rejoiced with their families in completing the course and taking the first step into a more active lifestyle.