Everything about the emirate of Dubai, from its buildings to its events, is of epic proportions. The Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon is no different in that regard, offering the largest prize for any long distance race in the world. The male and female winners of the race are awarded USD 250,000 as prize money. A million dollars is awarded to anyone who breaks the world record. The race takes place on January each year, and has been held annually since 2000. The marathon will next be held on the 27th of January, 2012.
The marathon is exactly 42.195 kilometres long, and starts and ends at Downtown Dubai, next to the Burj Khalifa. The race starts at 7 am, and the entrance fee is USD 120. While the marathon is open to those aged 18 and above there are also separate races for the younger crowd. The 10 kilometre Road Race is open to those above 15 years old, and the entry fee for that is USD 60. The Road Race starts at 7.15 am. The 3 kilometre long Fun Run starting at 10.30 am is open to all ages and costs only 15 USD to enter. Entrants for all races get an official race t-shirt, a finishers medal and participant certificates.
The run features plenty of water stations, isotonic stations and toilets along the course. Special baggage facilities are provided for runners as well. The marathon features DJs and live bands, which will keep spectators and participants entertained throughout the event. The event saw around 14,000 participants in 2011, and more people are expected to participate in 2012. Those interested in joining can fill out the registration forms available online at the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon official website. Anyone can join regardless of nationality.
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