Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — In a display of athleticism and perseverance, Lama Al Matrafi clinched the 9th position in the women's 21k race at the Jeddah Half-Marathon held on Saturday.

Crossing the finish line with a commendable time of 1:58:05, Al Matrafi's performance resonates as a testament to her dedication and passion for long-distance running.

This year's Jeddah Half-Marathon unfolded in the historic district of Al-Balad, marking a momentous occasion as it was the first event of its kind to navigate through the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The event attracted a diverse crowd of over 3,000 participants, spanning various nationalities, who competed across the 21 km, 10 km, and 1 km categories.

The marathon kicked off at 6 a.m. at Bab Jadid, the historical gate of Al-Balad, guiding runners past landmarks such as Nassif House, Al-Matbouli Museum, and Al-Juffali Mosque.

Al Matrafi, a globally certified sports and yoga instructor, is no stranger to the rigors of marathon running.

Her participation in Jeddah comes on the heels of her commendable performance in Riyadh's half-marathon last month, where she finished the race in 1:50 hours, securing a notable position among 443 participants.

Her consistent participation and success in these events highlight her unwavering commitment to fitness, which encompasses a broad spectrum of activities including tennis.

Reflecting on the marathon, Al Matrafi shared her enthusiasm for the event's supportive atmosphere and excellent organization, mirroring the positive experiences of participants and spectators alike.

The Jeddah Half-Marathon, apart from its competitive aspect, stood out for its inclusivity, offering races for different age groups and abilities, including a 1 km walk that welcomed participants with special needs or disabilities, ensuring widespread community engagement.

As Saudi Arabia continues to host such inclusive and well-organized sporting events, athletes like Lama Al Matrafi are setting inspiring benchmarks for aspiring runners, showcasing the power of sports in uniting communities, promoting health, and celebrating cultural heritage.