Running is one of the fastest growing sport and recreational activities in the Maldives. More and more are taking running as a sport.

Still there are not many competitive events for the runners around the country. That’s not to say that there aren’t charity events, but those do not necessarily bring the ambience of a competitive run or the spirit to strive for a personal best.

[caption id="attachment_512" align="alignleft" width="168"] Running Tribe - BB Runners[/caption]

This weekend, on 19th October 2017 we had the third edition of the Malé Midnight Run – this was a reasonably successful event which brought together the running community. The runners enjoyed the event and it also encourage young people to snap pictures of a different, more competitive, race.

It also gave an air of joy to the proceeding with the runners’ families coming to cheer them on.

As a free pre- event warm up the Saaid Academy conducted a race for young children – all the little participants walked away happy with a medal.

Malé Midnight Run started 3 years ago in 2015 with the intention of giving a different experience for enthusiastic runners around the country.

This year the event was different, for the first time the event featured electronic timing and was well received by participants. This urged participants to strive harder for personal bests.

[caption id="attachment_509" align="alignright" width="239"] 5KM starting point, get set ready ....[/caption]

In the past two years the event had prize money, however, there is also a significant operational cost and as such the race has been almost impossible to carry on with limited sponsorship.

Seemingly, this year’s event was postponed twice due to funding difficulties.

Since inception the event has not been able to garner adequate sponsorship support, so it had to depend on personal contributions from organizers as well.

Since this is a road race everything wasn’t smooth sailing to race day nor was it during the race itself.

It would be unimaginable to close roads in Malé and as such this run is held in the evening, conceived so as not to disrupt traffic while at the same time making it all the more efficient for the Ministry of Housing and Police to support.

[caption id="attachment_511" align="alignleft" width="173"] Friendship spirit, crossing the finish line together.[/caption]

Nonetheless, the route had to be diverted at last minute due to construction approval along the running route – this was sorted out though, the organizers are grateful for the cooperation received from Ministry of Housing and Police.

Additionally, music, lights and the finisher arch were arranged by well wishers.

Runners; your running spirit and participation is most valued.

 

 

[gallery ids="515,513,510"]