Tribune News Network
Doha
The 13th etdition of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo, a landmark event in Qatar’s sporting calendar and a World Athletics Gold Label race, concluded triumphantly, with more than 15,000 runners from 140 countries uniting in a celebration of health, community and sportsmanship. This year’s marathon not only set new participation records but also raised the bar for inclusivity and innovation, reinforcing Ooredoo’s commitment to fostering a more active society.
This edition’s activities began with the Marathon Village at Sheraton Park, which kicked off on January 14 and ran for four days. The village offered a vibrant hub of activities, live entertainment, and community engagement opportunities, creating an exciting prelude to race day.
On January 17, runners took the picturesque route along the Doha Corniche, starting and finishing at Hotel Park.
The marathon categories catered to all ages and abilities, with races ranging from the Full Marathon to Kids’ Races. Over 1,300 international runners competed, alongside nearly 1,000 children and participants with disabilities, showcasing the event’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.
World-class athletes headlined this year’s event, including Ezra Kipketer Tanui, Balew Yihunle, and Mitku Tafa, while top female runners such as Ethlemahu Sintayehu, Muluhabt Tsega, and Zinah Senbeta delivered outstanding performances.
The winners of each category displayed exceptional endurance and speed, setting new benchmarks for the event:
• Full Marathon Elite: Ezra Kipketer Tanui achieved victory with an impressive time of 2:07:28, while in the women’s category, Ethlemahu Sintayehu shone with a time of 2:21:43.
• Full Marathon (42KM): Ahmed Elhissouf triumphed with a time of 2:29:38, and in the women’s category, Estefania Unzu Ripoll emerged victorious, finishing in 2:58:20.
• Half Marathon (21KM): Ismail El Kharchi claimed the top spot with a time of 1:04:10, while Wafa Zaroual won the women’s category with a time of 1:22:47.
• 10KM: Mohamed Abdullahi led the race, completing it in 27:56, and Camille French excelled in the women’s category with a time of 34:53.
• 5KM: Waberi Houssein secured victory with a time of 13:47, while Hanin Hussain finished first in the women’s category with a time of 20:39.
• Al Adaam Category: Abdullah Almesalam crossed the finish line of the full marathon in the men’s category, while Lulwa Al Marri completed it in the women’s category. Yousef Abdulkadhar triumphed in the men’s half marathon, with Dana Al Mannai leading in the women’s half marathon. In the 10KM race, Khalifa Al Kubaisi secured victory in the men’s category, while Noor Al Obaidli finished first in the women’s category. For the 5KM race, Osama Al Jumaily claimed the top spot in the men’s category, and Aldana Al Musaifri excelled in the women’s category.
Reflecting on the marathon’s success, Sheikh Ali bin Jabor Al Thani, chairman of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2025 Committee and chief executive officer of Ooredoo Qatar, said: “The Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2025 has once again exceeded expectations, bringing together athletes and supporters in a celebration of health, inclusivity, and community. We are immensely proud of the achievements of every participant and grateful to our sponsors, partners, and volunteers for their unwavering support. We have all contributed to delivering an exceptional edition worthy of Qatar’s status as a global sports destination.”
To cap off the event, a memorable gala dinner was held on January 19 at the Sheraton Hotel. The evening celebrated the achievements of participants, sponsors, and partners, with awards presented to winners from all categories.
Special recognition was given to Ghanim Al Muftah, Goodwill Ambassador of Reach Out to Asia, who received the honorary award of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2025.
