FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RUNNING IN THE LAND FLOWING WITH MILK & HONEY
BLOM BEIRUT MARATHON – 18TH NOVEMBER 2007
Beirut is renowned for its bombs, its war and most recently its forthcoming
presidential elections, but for runners all over the world, it is a beacon
of hope and a bastion of solidarity in the "run" towards freedom and
democracy. As the only democratic country in the Middle East, and
surrounded by a whole region in turmoil, Lebanon stares opportunity in the
face, and through events like the BLOM Beirut Marathon, which is sponsored
by BLOM Bank and Nike, builds unity and kindles the fire of hope for a
better future.
Every runner who can, should come and run! Each person who joins in the
event will be participating in a celebration of life and liberty. Tens of
thousands will join together on November 18th to run. In 2006, just a few
days after the assassination of a minister, the BLOM Beirut Marathon went
ahead with over 20,000 participants in the 10k and the marathon was host to
people from over 50 nations, and this year we hope to see our numbers grow
even more.
Marathon runners are treated to a 360 degree view of Lebanon as they take
in the sights of East and West Beirut, running past historical places made
famous during the civil war, such as the ‘green line' and the impressive
Museum of Lebanon, along major tree lined boulevards that are adjacent to
the heavily shelled areas of the Israeli war of 2006, and out onto the
Mediterranean shoreline to face the majestic mountains of Lebanon, rising
to almost 3000 meters in front of you. The race then heads back along the
coast with the city of Beirut prominently seen across the peninsula just
north of the city, before entering into the charming old French Quarter.
The race continues through the ancient Phoenician ruins and into the now
famous heart of downtown Beirut, before passing along Hamra Street, which
during the 60's was formerly known as the Paris of the Orient. Thereafter
the race takes you close to the sea, along the corniche of Beirut, before
arriving at the finish line in the modern reconstructed city center.
Bib pick up takes place for four days before the race in the modern ABC
shopping mall in the heart of Achrafieh and registration is available
on-line. Accommodation is available and for information on special deals
contact . Middle East Airlines, the official
carrier, is offering special fares for marathon runners, which are
available directly from any Middle East Airlines official office.
Security for the event is massive and involves three tiers, the outer
perimeter is handled by the Lebanese Army, close proximity is managed by
the Police and the screening and securing for the start and finish lines
are done by private security companies.
Ernst Van Dyk (Wheelchair winner of Boston/New York) will be competing, as
will Edward Maalouf, (Handcycle Silver Medal World Champion). Ethiopians
Shitaye Gemechu and Asnake Fekadu will be leading the Elite field. Lebanese
marathon champions Omar Abdel Latif (2:27) and Maria Pia Nehme (3:10) will
lead the elite Lebanese field. Prizes are numerous with a total purse of
almost $60,000.
The race has always been an undeniable success, and this is the fifth
anniversary race. Joining the BLOM Beirut Marathon will be an unforgettable
experience, and tours of Lebanon, the ancient Roman Temples and the
Biblical cities of Tyre and Sidon, and the City of Cana where water was
turned into wine, are delightful pre/post race tours that can be arranged.
Lebanon: a land flowing with milk and honey; a journey into a culture and
heritage that have surpassed time itself!
Come and run, and give peace a helping hand!
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