BLOM Beirut Marathon Update

The BLOM Beirut Marathon 08 will be held on 30th November 2008. For the first time in several years, the event will be held under peaceful circumstances. Lebanon’s politics are now on a new track and the safety of the country is improving by the day, as witnessed by countless tourist arrivals.

We want to remind you of our awesome event and encourage you to come and join us in a celebration of revival and renewal as we ring out a message of hope that things can be changed.

The Marathon attracts people from all over the world and is truly a cultural meeting point, and with over 18 million Lebanese living overseas almost every nation is represented, either by a national or a Lebanese emigrant. Race day is exciting, the marathon makes its way through West Beirut, then goes along the green line that once separated the two sides of the war, and then heads towards the North of Beirut along the seashore road, eventually ending up in the beautifully reconstructed downtown city center for celebrations and entertainment. There’s plenty to do during the lead up to the race, with sight-seeing trips to the Roman temples and the Jeita Grotto, as well as the opportunity to visit some of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. There’s also the chance to get to meet and run with the elite athletes before race day and generally enjoy the thrill of the race.

On the same day, there is a fantastic annual 10km race that attracts in excess of 20,000 runners, together wtih a 5km race for children, which includes championships for under 18’s.

All the races are timed and there are plenty of give aways and goodies.

The Beirut Marathon Association welcomes accredited journalists and has very special support packages available for them – to secure your place contact: abdallah@beirutmarathon.org

Registration is on-line and is open. Deadline is November 15th.

Hope to see you there!