The First-Ever Red Sea Marathon: A Race on Jeddah's Coastline

23 August 2024

Lace up your sneakers and get ready for an extraordinary experience as the first-ever Red Sea Marathon sprints into Saudi Arabia in January 2025. This groundbreaking event, announced by the Saudi Arabian Athletic Federation (SAAF) at a press conference in Jeddah, is set to bring together around 10,000 local and international runners for a race like no other.

Scheduled for Saturday, January 18, 2025, the Red Sea Marathon will be held in the vibrant city of Jeddah, with the exact location to be revealed soon. This historic marathon will feature four different race categories, catering to everyone from beginners to professional sprinters. Participants can choose from the full marathon (42.2 kilometers) for both amateurs and pros, a half marathon (21.1 kilometers) for seasoned runners, a 10-kilometer race for those aged 17 and above, and a 4-kilometer race designed for beginners and children.

The SAAF, in partnership with Sports Hub, plans to host this event annually, making it a permanent fixture in the global marathon calendar. With a significant prize pool awaiting the top professional runners, the Red Sea Marathon is expected to attract elite athletes from around the world, including some of Saudi Arabia’s finest.

The excitement surrounding this marathon is palpable, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does it promise a thrilling competition, but it also highlights Jeddah’s potential as a major sports hub in the region. The marathon route will take runners along the beautiful Red Sea Corniche, offering stunning views of the coastline and showcasing Jeddah’s modern landmarks. The course has been designed to meet the standards of the International Marathon Association, ensuring a challenging yet rewarding experience for all participants.

For those considering taking part in this historic race, now is the perfect time to start training. Preparing for a marathon typically requires 16 to 20 weeks of dedicated training, depending on your current fitness level. Given that the Red Sea Marathon is scheduled for mid-January, aspiring marathoners should ideally begin their training regimen by early September to be race ready. This preparation period allows for gradual building of endurance, strength, and mental toughness, all of which are crucial for completing a marathon successfully.

In addition to the main event, the Red Sea Marathon will also feature a range of activities designed to engage the entire community. From children’s races to family walks, there will be something for everyone, making this marathon a true celebration of health, fitness, and togetherness.

The cool weather in January makes it an ideal time for such an event, ensuring a pleasant and safe environment for all participants. As the marathon date approaches, keep an eye on the official channels for the latest updates and details on registration, routes, and more.

The Red Sea Marathon is not just a race; it’s a movement that aims to elevate the health and well-being of individuals while putting Jeddah on the global sporting map. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, this marathon offers a unique opportunity to be part of history. So, start your training, mark your calendars, and get ready to be part of something truly special on January 18, 2025.