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The 18th edition of the Zayed Charity Run concluded in Miami, Florida, attracting thousands of participants from across American society. The 5-kilometer race took place at Regatta Park, featuring 150 runners from the United Arab Emirates alongside thousands of American participants of all ages, according to official reports from the event organizers.
The event was launched by Major General (Retired) Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Higher Organizing Committee, with Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State, and Aref Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, in attendance. Officials from the UAE Embassy in Washington and the Consulate in Miami, along with local authorities from Miami and Florida, participated in the ceremony.
Zayed Charity Run Supports Kidney Disease Patients
The race allocated a total prize pool of 20,000 US dollars, with first place receiving 5,000 dollars, second place earning 2,500 dollars, and third place awarded 1,500 dollars. Additionally, raffle prizes were distributed among participants throughout the event.
All proceeds from the Zayed Charity Run were directed to support the National Kidney Foundation in Florida. This charitable focus reinforces the race’s humanitarian mission of supporting patients and promoting global philanthropic efforts, according to event organizers.
International Participation and Cultural Exchange
The area surrounding the race village featured various community activities, prominently showcasing performances by the Emirati Al Ayyal folk group. The cultural displays generated significant interaction from both participants and families of various nationalities attending the event.
However, the event extended beyond athletic competition. The opening ceremony included the national anthems of both the United Arab Emirates and the United States, symbolizing mutual respect and shared cooperation between the two nations.
Meanwhile, race organizers distributed meals and beverages to participants, creating a festive atmosphere around the global humanitarian event. The celebration highlighted the cross-cultural connections fostered through international sporting events.
Winners Crowned in Miami Edition
Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi presented awards to the winners of the charitable race. In the men’s category, Red Buchanan secured first place, Mohammed Joulid claimed second, and Evert Silva finished third, according to official race results.
In contrast, the women’s category saw Jenna McNamara take first place, with Hiruni Wijayaratne earning second and McKenna Riford capturing third place. The winners were recognized for their athletic achievement and support of the charitable cause.
Legacy of Humanitarian Values
Her Excellency Al Kaabi expressed pride in participating in the Zayed Charity Run, emphasizing that the global charitable event carries the name of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, founder of the UAE. She noted the event’s mission to spread goodwill and support charitable causes worldwide.
Additionally, Major General Al Kaabi highlighted that the race has reached its 25th year of promoting values of charity, tolerance, humanity, and generosity. The event has been held not only in the United States but also in the UAE, Egypt, China, and Brazil over the years.
Al Awani from Abu Dhabi Sports Council emphasized that this marked the second participation in Miami, representing an extension of numerous global events. He noted that the current season included races in Egypt, Brazil, and China, continuing the legacy of charitable work established at the event’s inception.
Organizers have not announced specific dates or locations for future editions of the Zayed Charity Run, though the event is expected to continue its global humanitarian mission in the coming year.
