The 8th edition of the popular Doha College Race has attracted a large number of participants in this year’s run, held recently at Aspire Park.

Increased by nearly a third from last year’s numbers, the interest in the race shows how fitness and healthy lifestyles are stepping into focus more and more.

With an age span of over 50 years – the youngest runner being 12 and the oldest 65 – the race brought together participants of all abilities. The one thing they all had in common was enthusiasm; one athlete had so much of it that he ran both races. James Lally, primary teacher in Doha College, ran the 5k race with just 15 minutes’ rest after finishing the 10k race with a very respectable time.

The top spot in the 10k Male Open category was claimed by Rachid Boudalla, an employee from the Ministry of Defence, who clocked in an impressive 00:32:54. Rachid is a newcomer on the DC Race track, and was thrilled with his result.

The organisation and levels of participation were great, and I am happy that I was able to participate in this race. I train every day in Aspire Park but I am not affiliated with any club, I direct my own training. A big thank you to the organisers.’

The fastest 10k female runner was Rebecca Botwright (00:38:10), who made a remarkable comeback after winning the race for three years in a row in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

I feel extremely proud to win the DC 2017 run, as last year I didn’t compete because I just had a baby, and in July I broke my foot. It was lovely to run in Aspire Park instead of roads for a change. I only took up running in 2011, when I came second in the first Doha College 10k race. I have a sporting background and used to play squash professionally, however will give any sport a go! I have been in Doha since 2009 and part of the Doha Bay Running Club since 2011.’

The best times in the 5k race were ran by Andrew Buckle (Male Veteran – 00:17:37) and Katerina Matousova (Female Open – 00:20:29), less than three minutes behind.

Dr Steffen Sommer, Doha College principal and a runner himself, said they are very proud to have the traditional DC run  and grateful to Aspire for supporting the venture.

We have the highest number of attendees in a long time, nearly 800, and this is thanks to Greg Evans from Evolution Sports Qatar, who did a fantastic job to recruit as many runners. This is a very important event for the general well-being of the students in our school and the wider community.’

Greg Evans also expressed gratitude to everyone who helped make the race happen.

It was wonderful to see so many participants, not just from the Doha College community, but from the whole of Qatar. The dedication, energy and enthusiasm that everyone showed were commendable. This was the first time I have organised the Doha College Race and I am so proud to have been part of it.

I would like to thank all of our volunteers on race day for their wonderful work, without them the race would not have been possible. A massive thank you to our race partners Tri-Club Doha, who provided the timing service for the race, and Dulsco for providing waste management and manpower for setting up the course. Finally, I would like to thank Evo Sports Qatar, Shangri-La Doha, and Nando’s, who kindly donated fantastic prizes for our winners.’

The Doha College 5/10k Race was held in Aspire Park along a multi-terrain course alongside beautiful fountains and the only lake in Qatar!  Visit the Doha College website for more information about their community events.