Budapest: The Zayed Charity Run concluded its first edition in Budapest, bringing together more than 1,000 participants and marking its debut in Europe as part of its global humanitarian expansion. The event reflected the UAE's humanitarian vision of using sport to promote solidarity, generosity, and social impact across borders.
According to Emirates News Agency, the run featured 3km, 5km, and 10km categories for participants of different ages and backgrounds, held against the backdrop of the Hungarian capital. Al Habtoor Group supported the initiative through the participation of 12 employees, demonstrating corporate engagement and community solidarity. The event also included an online charity auction showcasing artwork by Emirati artist Abdulla Lutfi, with proceeds supporting charitable initiatives in Hungary.
In the 10km category, Kennedy Kimutai Kaptila won the men's division, followed by Hillary Kiptum Maiyo Kimaiyo and V¡s¡rhelyi M¡t©. Valentine Jebet secured first place in the women's division, followed by Vindics-T³th Lili Anna and Gerlai-Perj©s No©mi. In the 5km category, Palkovits Istv¡n claimed first place in the men's division, followed by Kal¡sz Bertold and Said Abdullah Ali Alalawi. Jecinta Mwende Kamau won the women's division, followed by Vastag N³ra and Bozs³ Tnde. In the 3km open category, Acs¡di Bence secured first place, followed by Szemerei Levente and Kiss-So³s Hunor.
A total prize pool of AED70,000 was awarded during an official ceremony honoring the winners. Mohammed Hilal Al Kaabi, Chairman of the Supreme Organising Committee of the Zayed Charity Run, highlighted the significance of the Budapest edition as a milestone in the global journey of the run, emphasizing the UAE's belief in humanitarian initiatives to bring people together.
Hamad Al Marar, Managing Director and CEO of EDGE Group, noted the importance of supporting the Zayed Charity Run in Budapest, highlighting the values of generosity, compassion, and solidarity. The event was backed by various partners, including the UAE Embassy in Budapest, Erth Abu Dhabi, EDGE, Emirates, Al Habtoor, and several other organizations.
Since its international expansion, the Zayed Charity Run has continued to reach communities across major cities worldwide, reinforcing its role as a global humanitarian initiative rooted in unity and giving.
