Today's Edition
SARA AL ZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Since its inception in 2020, the Abu Dhabi Running Team (ADRT) has grown from a modest fitness initiative into one of the largest sporting communities in the UAE. Established through a partnership between the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and the Falcon Athletics Academy, the group now boasts more than 4,000 members.
From absolute beginners tackling their first three kilometres to seasoned athletes lining up for initiatives such as the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon and international events, the team has successfully capitalised on a growing local appetite for health and wellness.
The primary objective of the initiative remains anchored in promoting active lifestyles, community engagement, and injury prevention, while ensuring that the sport is accessible to individuals of all ages and fitness levels.
Guiding this massive community operation are its founding members, head coach Youssef Rochdi and team captain Talib Al Salami.
Their extensive athletic credentials provide the group with its core credibility. Rochdi is a certified US track and field coach holding a level 5 World Athletics Academy Diploma in elite endurance events, whilst Al Salami is a board member of the Abu Dhabi Athletics Club and one of the few Emiratis to complete the Abbott World Marathon Majors, earning the coveted six-star medal.
For Al Salami, drawing on personal accolades is merely a way to demonstrate what is possible for the wider community. Reflecting on his marathon achievements, he notes that his journey from a casual runner to a community leader transformed his understanding of the sport.
"Completing the Abbott World Marathon Majors and earning the 6-star medal represented much more than crossing six finish lines," Al Salami said.
"It became a symbol of what ordinary people can achieve when they commit to a goal with passion and purpose. It means that everyone, regardless of their fitness level, can do the impossible if they put their mind to it. When I first started running, it was a very personal experience; simply a way to improve my fitness and mindset."
Over time, however, the founders realised that the true value of community sports extends far beyond individual milestones. Through their structured training sessions, they have witnessed beginners transform into marathon runners, improve their health, gain confidence, and build lasting friendships.
"Community sports create belonging, and that human connection is often more powerful than the sport itself," the founders explained.
"ADRT has focused on making running accessible, welcoming, and inclusive for everyone regardless of age or fitness level."
This inclusive philosophy serves as the foundation for the group's daily operations. Whether someone is training for a short local jog or the full marathon distance (42 kilometres), the team emphasises that encouragement and consistency are the ultimate keys to success. As Al Salami always reminds new members, every experienced runner was once a beginner.
The rapid expansion of the group also reflects a broader institutional push within the emirate. The founders highlighted the vital role played by organisations such as ADSC in creating a sustainable sports culture through world-class facilities, awareness campaigns, and year-round programmes.
Looking ahead, the team aims to expand its mentorship, youth participation, and beginner-friendly initiatives to further strengthen the local culture of wellness. In the context of the UAE's Year of Family, the initiative is focusing heavily on multigenerational involvement, noting that running is one of the few activities where families can train and celebrate achievements side by side.
"These shared moments create stronger bonds, healthier routines, and meaningful memories," the founders added.
"Beyond physical health, sports also teach values such as commitment, teamwork, patience, and mutual encouragement, which strengthen both individuals and families as a whole."
