Saudi Sports For All Federation To Host SFA Expo And Riyadh Marathon In February

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 27 (Bernama) -- The Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) has unveiled a new initiative combining the SFA Expo and the Riyadh Marathon, set to take place from Feb 5 to 8.

This initiative is part of the SFA's ongoing mission to promote healthier lifestyles and encourage community participation in physical activities.

The SFA Expo, scheduled for Feb 5 to 7 at JAX District, will feature interactive zones on health, fitness, and wellness, including areas for kids’ sports, athlete success stories, fitness technologies, and healthy eating, as well as a marathon zone for race kit distribution and pre-race activities. The first SFA Expo drew over 12,000 visitors, 58 exhibitors, 13 Saudi federations, and 60 speakers.

SFA President, Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud explained that this combined initiative represents a major step in the Federation’s goal to make physical activity a part of daily life in Saudi Arabia.

“We will not only celebrate athletic excellence but also provide a platform for our community to explore new sports and embrace healthier lifestyles,” he said in a statement.

The Riyadh Marathon, taking place on Feb 8, will offer four race categories, namely a 42-kilometre (km) full marathon, a 21 km half marathon, a 10 km race, and a four km family run, with routes highlighting Riyadh’s landmarks.

Last year’s event drew 20,000 runners from 125 countries, with Saudis making up 58 per cent, while this year’s edition aims to attract 40,000 participants.

Both events are supported by key sponsors, with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) returning as the presenting partner for the marathon and ASICS and Tawuniya as strategic partners.

Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the events emphasise fitness as an essential element of the nation’s social fabric. The Riyadh Marathon also holds the prestigious ‘World Athletics Elite Label Road Race’ classification.

-- BERNAMA