In an effort to get more people in Qatar moving, the country will hold its first Color Run next month.
During what’s dubbed the “happiest 5k on the planet,” participants sign up to walk or run 5km and are doused from head to toe in different colors after finishing each kilometer.
Since its inception in 2012, the race has already been conducted in some 200 cities in 30 countries, including New York, Tokyo and most recently, Dubai.
In Qatar, the un-timed fun run is being organized by Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar (WCMC-Q), as part of its “Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First” campaign.
The race will be on Jan. 24 near the Qatar National Convention Center. Details such as the exact timing of the event are still being ironed out, but online registration is now open. Spots apparently fill up quickly.
According to Color Run Qatar’s website, there is no age restriction for participants, but anyone over the age of four years old should register. Registration costs QR140/person.
Other rules include wearing white at the beginning of the race, and being “prepared for colored Picasso-painting madness and lots of dancing at the finish line.”
The run comes at a time when Qatar is contending with an alarmingly high prevalence of obesity and diabetes.
In a statement, a WCMC-Q spokesperson said:
“Poor lifestyle and obesity are real problems in our society that can lead to serious health issues. We all need to do more to live healthier lives. The Sahtak Awalan: Your Health First campaign helps people make positive lifestyle choices and The Color RunTM Qatar is a great example of just that – a positive lifestyle choice. It gives people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities the chance to get together in a healthy and active way, but more importantly, it’s fun! It makes exercise enjoyable and accessible, and we’ll be encouraging everyone to take part.”
Organizers are also looking for volunteers to help with the run. Those interesting in helping can apply by filling out this form.
Do you plan to participate? Thoughts?
