JEDDAH – Running group, Jeddah Road Runners, recently organized a marathon and half-marathon at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), which resulted in thumping victories for Canadian Rich Myers and Saudi Abdullah Bakhraiba, respectively. In an attempt to circumvent the heat, the marathon runners took off at the unearthly hour of 4:30 a.m., while the half-marathoners were able to sleep in a little longer and begin their race at 6 a.m. The race, sponsored by Carrefour and Bay La Sun Hotel and Marina, started opposite the hotel entrance in cooperation with King Abdullah Economic City, who employed its security personnel to ensure a smooth and safe run for the athletes. Participants and supporters were offered an overnight stay at the Bay La Sun Hotel for reduced rates, an opportunity many participants chose to take, saving them the 1.5-hour trip from Jeddah to the start at KAEC. A total of 10 participants joined the marathon race, which took place in excellent weather conditions with a small breeze and moderate humidity. From the beginning, however, it was clear that no one would be able to beat newcomer Rich Myers, who completed the 42.2 kilometers in 2:47:51, a respectable time and personal best for the Canadian hailing from Calgary. Second was Spaniard Javier Mate García, who finished in 3:22:38, more than half an hour behind the winner. The third place went to Belgian Balder Ed Berckmans with a time of 3:31:20. No less than 59 runners ventured the half marathon, but no one could challenge club champion Abdullah Baikhraiba, who ran the 21.1 kilometers in a personal best of 1:22:43. Filipino Charlo Rabaja Lugtu, had come especially to KAEC from Dhahran and had just recovered from an injury, finishing second in 1:40:25. Third place went to Egyptian Mohammed Attiyah Abdelhadi, who finished the race in 1:45:28. Hungarian Krisztina Olofsson beat her personal best with over 2 minutes to finish first of the ladies in a decent time of 1:51:06 only one week after she had completed the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon. Following the race, the runners were offered a breakfast at the hotel's restaurant. During the awards, all participants received a medal as well as a Carrefour bag and coupons to exchange at any of the supermarket's branches.
