Expatriate runners braved the sudden changes in the weather condition to complete Qatar's 160-km cross-country marathon near Al Shamal on Saturday.
The event organised by Doha Bay Runners Club (DBRC) began at southern desert of Qatar on Friday with 19 expatriate runners from the UK, India, the Philippines, Syria, France, Canada, Morocco, Nigeria, Spain and Brazil.
However, only Philippine expatriates Rossyle Ayuro and Rommil and a Brazilian expatriate Filipe Mallet completed the entire 160-km race as many of the runners withdrew from the run after 50-km owing to indifferent weather, while French expatriate Loic Bourdon, who lead the marathon quit after completing 100-km.
An initiative of social media group, the marathon through desert was the first of its kind in the country. The runners stopped for refreshments after every 50-km.
Speaking to Qatar Tribune, a participant and member of DBRC, Vinodh Gopinathan said:"The unexpected rise in temperature on Friday was a big challenge for the runners. The marathon was an inspiration for sport lovers. The event was not only to encourage the spirit of sports among the residents but also to promote a healthy living."
(Santhosh Chandran/DOHA)