Doha residents will receive the unique opportunity to compete with the world’s top 50km runners following confirmation the IAU 50km World Trophy Final will coincide with the Aspire International 6:50 Race.

Set to go ahead on October 31^st, local participants will attempt to run approximately seven times the length of the Doha Corniche in under six hours.

Set to be one of the most challenging running events ever to be hosted in Qatar, the race will consist of 10 laps of a specially designed 5km track at the Aspire Zone Precinct.

The race will also feature a relay option for those who wish to compete in a team of five.

Adding to the prestige of the event, the 6:50 race will also double up as the final of a major worldwide 50km running tournament. The exciting arrangement follows a deal struck between the Aspire Zone and the International Association of Ultrarunners (IAU) earlier this year and ensures that 50 of the world’s best ultra long distance runners will also be taking part in the event. The agreement means that after the race the winners of the IAU World 50km Trophy will be crowned.

Despite the growing popularity of such extreme distance events worldwide, the 6:50 race will become only the second ultra-marathon to be hosted in Qatar. The event follows the outstanding first edition of the Aspire 6:50 race earlier this year that saw almost 100 local amateur runners complete the distance.

With online registration now open for the 6:50 race in October, places are expected to fill quickly.

Predicting a large turnout at the event, Abdulla Al Khater, Acting Events and Venues Manager at Aspire Zone Foundation, said: “Following the popularity of our first ultra-marathon in March this year, we are confident that there exists a serious appetite for such long-distance running races in Doha and throughout the Gulf region. We believe that hosting such an event demonstrates our commitment towards providing sporting opportunities for all. With registration for the 6:50 race now open, we now look forward to welcoming the very fittest local athletes prepared for this ultimate challenge”.

Registration is now open at www.lifeinaspire.qa website, and for those who sign up the 200 QR registration fees represent incredible value. On the evening prior to the event, all officials and athletes will receive an invite to a free pasta party at the Aspire Zone where they can receive a full briefing on the track itself.

During the course of the race athletes will have the chance to re-fuel for free at the track’s various food and sports-drink stations. Those who complete the race will be given a winner’s medal, a goody bag and a free massage and there will even be a fanzone for the family and friends of each runner to cheer on their loved ones.

Meanwhile prizes will be awarded to the winners of five categories in the 6:50 race including best individual runner, best individual runner 40+, best individual runner 50+, best relay team and GCC Champion.

To register for the event or to find more information about the race, including course information and starting times, please visit www.lifeinaspire.qa.

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