Doha: The Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) held a press conference this morning to reveal details of the first edition of its Half Marathon 2025, set to take place on Tuesday, February 11, at Lusail Boulevard as part of Qatar National Sports Day celebrations.
The QOC also highlighted other sporting activities planned for the occasion at Team Qatar Village, featuring participation from various national sports federations.
The press conference was attended by Sheikh Suhaim bin Mohammed Al Thani, Chairman of the QOC Half Marathon Organizing Committee, Abdulaziz Ghanem, Race Director, Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud Al Thani, Head of the Marketing Committee, Abdulla Al-Marri, Head of the Communication Committee, and Eman Al Fadala, Lusail Command & Control Center Operation Manager and Representative of Qatari Diar.
The Half Marathon will feature four main categories catering to different age groups and fitness levels. Participants can choose from the 21-kilometer Half Marathon, the 10-kilometer race, the 5-kilometer race, and a 1-kilometer Fun Run designed for children aged 6 to 14 years.
During the conference, Sheikh Suhaim bin Mohammed Al Thani emphasized QOC’s commitment to ensuring the highest technical standards for the race, guaranteeing a world-class experience for all participants.
He stated that the event aims to promote a strong sports culture in Qatar while encouraging the community to take part in physical activities. He reiterated that the initiative aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and QOC’s vision “To Become a Leading Nation in Bringing The World Together Through Sustainable Sport Development.”
Eman Al Fadala, representing Qatari Diar, expressed the company’s pride in collaborating with QOC for the Half Marathon.
She noted that Lusail Boulevard was chosen as the ideal venue, further solidifying Lusail’s status as a premier sports destination. Extensive preparations have been made to ensure a smooth and safe race, including carefully planned race routes in coordination with all relevant authorities.
Operational measures include on-site security teams, real-time traffic management, and emergency response coordination managed by the Lusail Command and Control Center, which will oversee all race-related activities.
Race Director Abdulaziz Ghanem detailed the official race schedule, stating that the Half Marathon will commence at 6:00 AM, followed by the 10-kilometer race at 7:00 AM. The 5-kilometer race will begin at 7:30 AM, with the 1-kilometer Fun Run scheduled for 8:30 AM.
He highlighted the strong turnout, with more than 100 nationalities already registered, and confirmed that registration will remain open until February 9 through QOC’s digital platforms.
Abdulaziz Ghanem underscored QOC’s dedication to runner safety and comfort, noting that water stations, first-aid points, and other logistical support will be available along the course.
He also extended his gratitude to Qatari Diar, the event’s official host partner, for providing essential logistical support in making the event a success. He expressed pride in launching the Half Marathon at Lusail Boulevard, a location rich in sporting and cultural significance.
Abdulaziz Ghanem also applauded the support of Team Qatar’s official supporters, including Doha Bank and Al Rayan Bank, along with event sponsors such as The Look, Lab Recovery, Baladi Express, and Al Rayan Mineral Water in addition to the other entities which contribute to the success of the event including Ministry of Interior, Qatar Rail, Qatar Athletics Federation and Qetaifan Islands.
Sheikh Abdullah bin Saud Al Thani, Head of the Marketing Committee, highlighted the QOC’s broader plans for National Sports Day, including a series of diverse activities at Team Qatar Village in Al Sa’ad Plaza, Lusail.
“Alongside the Half Marathon, QOC will host a range of sports and entertainment activities in collaboration with several national sports federations. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in sports such as athletics, football, basketball, handball, shooting, volleyball, boxing, Qatar Paralympic Committee, and martial arts. The event aims to provide an interactive and engaging experience for participants of all ages, reinforcing the importance of an active lifestyle.” He said.
