Moroccan Athletes Shine at the 12th Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament
The vibrant city of Dubai recently played host to the 12th Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament, a prestigious event that showcased the talents of athletes from around the globe. Among the standout performers were Moroccan athletes, who dominated the road races held on Saturday, demonstrating their exceptional prowess and competitive spirit.
Dominance in the Men’s 10-Kilometer Race
The men’s 10-kilometer race was a highlight of the tournament, with Moroccan runner Yasser El Chachaoui taking the top spot. El Chachaoui crossed the finish line with an impressive time of 27 minutes and 21 seconds, showcasing his speed and endurance. He was joined on the podium by fellow Moroccans Mohamed Aït Mamas and Ismail El Kharchi, who completed a remarkable clean sweep for their country. This performance not only highlights the depth of talent in Moroccan athletics but also underscores the nation’s commitment to developing world-class runners.
Women’s Excellence on Display
Moroccan women athletes also made their mark in the competition, with Rokaya Moukaim leading the charge in the women’s 10-kilometer race. Moukaim finished with a time of 34 minutes and 37 seconds, further solidifying Morocco’s reputation as a powerhouse in long-distance running. Her victory is a testament to the rigorous training and dedication that Moroccan female athletes have invested in their sport, paving the way for future generations.
Success in the 5-Kilometer Races
The Moroccan dominance extended to the 5-kilometer races as well. In the men’s event, Amine Souida clinched first place with a time of 14 minutes and 45 seconds, showcasing his remarkable speed and tactical racing skills. His performance was particularly noteworthy as he outpaced local competitors, including Emirati runner Hamid Al Moualla, who finished with a commendable time of 15 minutes and 41 seconds.
In the women’s 5-kilometer race, Polish athlete Emilia Mangilinane took top honors with a time of 22 minutes and 11 seconds. Meanwhile, Emirati runner Hessa Al Jassmi emerged victorious in the local women’s category, finishing in 23 minutes and 48 seconds. These results reflect the diverse international participation in the tournament and highlight the competitive spirit among athletes from different backgrounds.
French Competitors Shine in Seniors and Residents Category
The tournament also featured a seniors and residents category for the 5-kilometer races, where French competitors excelled. Jean-Claude Haramburi won the men’s division with a time of 16 minutes and 58 seconds, while Latifa Saroukh claimed victory in the women’s race, finishing in 25 minutes and 33 seconds. Their performances added an exciting layer to the event, showcasing the talent present in the expatriate community in Dubai.
A Growing International Event
Hosted at the iconic Meydan Racecourse, the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament attracted an impressive 4,300 runners from various nationalities, reflecting its growing international appeal. The event not only highlights the athletic talent present in Dubai but also serves as a platform for local athletes to compete alongside international stars. This blend of local and global talent contributes to the tournament’s reputation as a premier sporting event in the region.
The Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament continues to evolve, fostering a spirit of competition and camaraderie among athletes from around the world. As it grows in stature, it remains a vital part of Dubai’s sporting calendar, celebrating both the achievements of elite athletes and the development of local talent.
