Massive Participation for Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament
This Friday evening, the bustling atmosphere of the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament is set to host over 8,682 runners from multiple age groups and nationalities. This event marks the 13th edition of this renowned tournament, primarily considered the highlight of sporting events during the holy month of Ramadan.
Patronage and Theme
Under the esteemed patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, the tournament embodies the theme of ‘Unlimited Capabilities.’ His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, also lends his support, ensuring the tournament’s success year after year.
Race Details and Schedule
The running events kick off at 9:45 PM today, starting with the 5km men’s race, to be followed shortly by the women’s race at 9:48 PM. Other categories include the youth race at 9:53 PM and the junior race at 9:58 PM. The 10km races are set for later in the evening, with the men’s event beginning at 10:30 PM and the women’s at 10:35 PM. All races will start and end at the Meydan Racecourse, ensuring a scenic yet challenging route for participants.
Organizers have emphasized discipline in the event, reminding all runners to arrive by 9:15 PM. Following this deadline, roads leading to the starting area will be closed.
Age Categories for Runners
The tournament features multiple categories to promote inclusivity. The 10km Open category for men welcomes participants from the community, including citizens, residents, and GCC nationals aged 16 and older. Women have an equivalent Open category under the same eligibility criteria.
The 5km race includes special categories for Emirati men and women, allowing participation for those aged 15 and above. Additional Open categories exist for men and women aged 50 and older, as well as for residents and GCC nationals of the same age group.
The junior race provides opportunities for younger athletes, enabling boys and girls aged 13-14 and 11-12 to join in the friendly competition.
Wheelchair Basketball Championship Updates
In other sporting excitement, the Wheelchair Basketball Championship at the Dubai Club for People of Determination in Al Ghusais is showcasing intense match-ups between various teams.
Group Standings
Within Group A, Dubai Courts effectively outperformed Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services with a score of 43-31, while the Community Development Authority also secured a win with a 36-20 victory over Swank Real Estate Development.
Group B has seen Dubai Municipality dominating with a commanding 55-12 win against the Department of Finance, while the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) fought hard for a 42-35 victory over the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (FAIC). Following these matches, Dubai Courts leads in Group A and Dubai Municipality stands strong at the top of Group B.
Upcoming Matches
Friday will feature another round of games, beginning with Dubai Police General Headquarters going up against DEWA at 9:30 AM, followed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) facing the Community Development Authority at 10:20 AM. The Department of Finance will then compete against FAIC at 11:10 AM, and the last match of the day will see Dubai Courts opposing Swank Real Estate Development at 12 noon.
Plethora of Padel Excitement
The UAE national team’s performance has also been exceptional in the Nad Al Sheba Padel Championship, clinching the top of their group with a decisive 3-0 victory over Egypt. Both teams are set to advance to the semi-finals, along with Kuwait and Morocco, both of whom achieved solid wins against their respective opponents.
Match Highlights
Notable matches include the UAE’s wins with Fares Al Janahi and Ignacio Villarino defeating their Egyptian counterparts, and Kuwait edging out Iran in a close contest. The full details reflect a competitive spirit that exemplifies the tournament’s energy.
Continuing the Tradition
As the Nad Al Sheba Sports Tournament advances into the following days, various exciting events are on the horizon. The popular 3×3 basketball games will proceed with preliminary rounds in Al Ghusais, with the finals scheduled for March 4. Tug-of-War preliminary rounds are set to kick off on March 1, and a major volleyball competition is also expected to draw considerable attention starting February 26. The culmination of these events promises thrilling moments as this vibrant tournament unfolds.
