2025 SFA International Sporting Events Conclude With Impressive Participations

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 13 (Bernama) -- The Saudi Sports for All Federation (SFA) is celebrating the success of the first-ever 2025 SFA International Sporting Events, with the SFA Expo attracting 35,359 visitors while the Riyadh Marathon saw 40,494 participants from 131 countries.

In a statement, the SFA stated that it is eager to build on this success for future events, aiming to inspire the Kingdom’s residents and visitors to embrace healthier, more active lifestyles.

Held from Feb 5 to 7, the SFA Expo offered a variety of interactive sports zones, fitness classes, health exhibits, and engaging panel discussions. A key highlight was the Primal Race functional fitness competition on Feb 7.

Meanwhile, the Riyadh Marathon, held on Feb 8, saw an impressive jump from 20,000 runners in 2024. It was organised in partnership with the Ministry of Sport, the Saudi Arabian Olympic & Paralympic Committee, the Saudi Arabian Athletic Federation, and Amanat AlRiyadh.

The four races that took place, namely the 42 kilometres (km) full marathon, half marathon (21 km), 10 km race, and a family-friendly four km run, saw a significant proportion of participants were Saudi nationals ( 67 per cent), with 40 per cent being women, reflecting the growing enthusiasm for sports in the Kingdom.

The top male and female finishers in the elite marathon categories received US$30,000 each, with additional prizes for second and third, while winners in the half marathon elite race won cash prizes of US$5,000 for first place. (US$1=RM4.46)

Among others, Saudi Awwal Bank was the presenting partner for the marathon, with ASICS, Tawuniya, Aquafina, and Gatorade as strategic partners for both events, in addition to medical support provided by Dr. Sulaiman Al Habib Medical Services Group at the event.

-- BERNAMA