Dubai:Cultures worldwide converged at Al Marmoom as more than 40 competitors from 28 nationalities participated in the first preliminary round of the eighth National Day Camel Marathon for Expatriates. Organized by the Events Department at the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, the event celebrated the rich tradition of camel racing in the UAE.
According to Wam, the Dubai Camel Racing Club hosted three races across women's and men's categories. Competitors showcased enthusiasm and determination, striving for leading positions. The event highlighted an increase in participant diversity, reflecting growing interest in Emirati culture through one of its most traditional sports.
In the women's open-weight category race over 1,200 meters, Barbara Livastari of Poland claimed victory, followed by Natalie Chantley of the UK and Celine Rachel of France. The men's 1,200-meter race saw Fateen Faisal of India take first place, while Ahmed Bahaa of Egypt and Yang Li of China finished second and third, respectively. In the women's Farda weight category over 1,500 meters, Ekaterina Kudria of Russia won, with Young Yu Liv of China and Audie Dervelinger of France following.
The top finishers were honored in the presence of key figures, including H.E. Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook, CEO of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre. The awards ceremony reflected the marathon's spirit, fostering competition and engagement among participants of varied nationalities.
The marathon exemplifies the UAE's cultural openness, allowing residents to engage with Emirati heritage. Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook emphasized the event's role in offering guests an authentic cultural experience. The marathon also attracted a diverse audience, adding a social dimension and reinforcing Dubai's cultural diversity through heritage sports.
