Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Four-time Olympic champion Mo Farah is championing the organising of the RunYas 2026 festival at Yas Marina Circuit, serving as the event’s official ambassador to inspire thousands of runners in the capital on January 11.
Farah has also enlisted the support of 17-year-old Emirati sprinter and Paris 2024 Olympian Maryam Al Farsi, inviting her to join the initiative to encourage female and younger participants.
The festival features participation categories tailored to various ages and abilities. Options include the Yas Kids 1k and 2k races exclusively for Abu Dhabi schools and sports clubs, and the Yas Relay for teams of three.
The main Yas Lap invites participants aged 14 and over to complete a 5.281km run around the track, while the Yas 10k offers a challenge for advanced runners and those training for longer distances.
Al Farsi, usually a sprinter, confirmed she has signed up for the Yas Lap category and expressed her excitement for what she described as a great event for everyone.
Farah said through a prepared statement: “Being a champion is not about winning, it’s about finishing! I’m really looking forward to coming to Abu Dhabi and seeing people of all ages and backgrounds take on the iconic Yas Marina Circuit in January.”
The event is organised by Ethara in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) and aims to encourage residents to start the new year with a commitment to health and wellbeing.
Dr Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADPHC, stated that the event forms part of a wider mission to reduce the burden of chronic disease and make healthy choices more accessible.
Saif Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara, said: “We aim to build RunYAS into a landmark annual running festival - whilst inspiring the community and visitors to lead healthy and active lives. With 2026 being the Year of the Family, we encourage runners of all abilities and families to participate.”
Registration is open via the Premier Online platform and the RunYAS website. Early bird offers with a 30% discount are available on all races until December 15.
