Aspire Zone demonstrated once again that sport is the ultimate tool in bringing people together, as enthusiasts from over 40 nations took part in the third phase of its annual Aquathon yesterday. Almost 500 people, representing an array of nationalities including the UK, The Netherlands, Qatar, and Egypt, converged on Aspire to participate in the races.
Marleen Claeys, from Belgium, took third place in the women’s veteran category. “This is the eighth time I have taken part in the Aquathon,” she said. “This is a really well organised competition. Lots of people participate, and it’s very easy to enter. It’s an event for the whole family. My nine-year-old daughter competes too, and it’s great being able to do this with her.”
Jiri Vystejn, from the Czech Republic, came third in the men’s senior category. “I have been taking part in the Aquathon for two years now. My time has improved. Today was my first time on the podium, so I am really happy. I am definitely going to keep competing,” he promised.
Ahmed Khalifa, from Egypt, is another returning participant who was pleased with his overall performance on Saturday. “My strongest area is swimming, my running is weaker, but it is good to combine both as my time is improving. I am excited for the next Aquathon to see how I do,” he said. “This type of competition is unusual in the Arab world, so I really want to encourage all Arab nationalities to take part.”
The Aquathon series takes place every year at Aspire Zone and comprises five stages spread across the winter months. Each competition includes a swim in the Aspire Dome pool and a run around Aspire Park. Entry is open to both men and women, with each event featuring races of varying distances for juniors aged eight to 15, adults aged between 16 and 39, and veterans who are 40 and over.
The Aquathon is part of Aspire Zone Foundation’s year-round, multifaceted community programme designed to encourage residents to adopt healthy lifestyles through a range of fun and exciting sports-based activities.
The fourth Aquathon event is set to take place in February. Entry is open to all applicants aged eight years and over. For more information visit www.aspirezone.qa/events.
The Peninsula
