Najla Aleisa speaking at the press conference.

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 31: Gulf Bank is excited to announce the upcoming Gulf Bank 642 Marathon, scheduled for Saturday, November 30, 2024. The annual event welcomes athletes, beginners, and community members to take part in one of Kuwait's largest sporting and social events, recognized as the only marathon in the country with international certification.

During a press conference, attended by representatives from the event organizer, Suffix, and various sponsors, Gulf Bank’s Chief Marketing Officer, Mrs. Najla Aleisa, conveyed her enthusiasm for the upcoming event. “We are excited to extend this invitation to all community members, as well as athletes and fitness enthusiasts, to take part in the 10th edition of the Gulf Bank Marathon. This milestone makes the event a significant highlight of Kuwait's annual sporting calendar.” Mrs. Aleisa highlighted the Bank’s ongoing support for the marathon, stressing its importance in cultivating a sports culture within the community.

“Our sponsorship reflects our commitment to sustainable development by investing in the capabilities of our society and empowering its members.” “The marathon represents a genuine effort to change lifestyle habits within our community, encouraging both individuals and families to integrate exercise into their daily lives,” she noted, addressing the growing concerns of diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

She also noted the marathon's role in supporting youth and national initiatives through collaboration with the organizing company and by creating opportunities for small and medium-sized businesses. The event aims to showcase Kuwaiti talent and professional runners, enabling them to compete in international marathons. In conclusion, Mrs. Aleisa remarked, “Sports goes beyond physical activity; it’s about cultivating resilience, both physically and mentally, and overcoming challenges.

Every step we take towards a healthier lifestyle brings us closer to our goals. I wish all participants a wonderful day filled with sportsmanship, and we are dedicated to ensuring that this 10th edition is a memorable experience!” Celebrating Growth and Community in the Heart of Kuwait City On behalf of Suffix Sports Management Company, Chief Operations Officer, Mr. Ahmed Al-Majed, expressed pride in partnering with Gulf Bank to host this popular community sports event, which continues to grow each year.

“We’re thrilled to see more participants from both Kuwait and the region. Over the past nine editions, more than 53,000 runners from over 90 nationalities have taken part, and we’re expecting a record number of participants for this milestone event.” He described the marathon route, noting that it is the largest local sporting event held in the heart of Kuwait City.

The course takes runners past iconic landmarks, including the Kuwait Towers, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, the Grand Mosque, Souq Al-Mubarakiya, and Gulf Bank headquarters. Participants will have the opportunity to win medals and exciting prizes. The Gulf Bank 642 Marathon offers four categories to accommodate all skill levels: a 5-kilometer walk or run, a 10-kilometer run, a half marathon (21 kilometers), and a full marathon (42 kilometers). Participants can register for the 5-kilometer race starting at age 11, the 10-kilometer race at age 16, and the half marathon at age 18. Family-Friendly Activities and Exclusive Services at the Marathon Mrs. Aleisa also mentioned the various entertainment activities scheduled to create a family-friendly environment during the marathon. Gulf Bank will set up a one-day digital branch at the finish line in Souq Sharq, allowing participants and their families to easily open an AlDanah account.

Registration Open Registration is currently open for all routes. Interested participants can sign up at www.gulfbank642marathon.com. International Recognition The Gulf Bank 642 Marathon is the only marathon in Kuwait to receive a Road Race Label from the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) and is recognized as an international event by the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS). Additionally, participants aged 40 and above can earn points toward the Abbott World Marathon Majors Wanda Age Group World Rankings.