Abu Dhabi: Khaled Al Suwaidi completed a 327-km ultra-marathon from Fujairah to Abu Dhabi in 80 hours, which is just under four days, becoming the first Emirati to run from the UAE’s east to west coast, on Tuesday.
Al Suwaidi started at Fujairah Port, running through Khalifa Port and ending at Zayed Port in Abu Dhabi as his effort was supported by Abu Dhabi Ports in aide of Cancer Patient Care Society ‘Rahma’, in conjunction with ‘the Year of Zayed’.
“The Rahma Run is to be considered one of the most exciting experiences of my life,” said Al Suwaidi. “It was a dream and now it is a reality. It was not easy to complete this difficult challenge, especially through the harsh conditions that I experienced on this long journey.
“I would like to thank all the supporters who made every effort to make this run a success and enabled me to reach the finish line. I would also like to point out that the reason for my challenge is to support cancer patients and the Cancer Patient Care Society, ‘Rahma’, which contributes to providing financial and moral support to cancer patients and their families.
“It is true that the challenge has come to an end, but the humanitarian work is not over and I hope that companies and individuals will continue to support Rahma. I am very happy that I have completed this run, and I am looking forward to some comfort and seeing my wife and my twin children.”
Three years ago Al Suwaidi suffered from obesity and weighed 125-kg but was pushed to change his lifestyle after health complaints. He was able to lose 50-kg but didn’t stop there turning his new regime into a force for good with humanitarian efforts and awareness raising runs.
