ERBIL, Kurdistan Region – As if scripted, the sun broke through the rain clouds just minutes before the start of this year’s Erbil International Marathon, casting light on an event that promotes peace and non-violence.
The wet weather could not keep more than 5,000 runners from at least 28 countries from taking part in this 3-race event that kicked off at 9am from the starting line at Sami Abdulrahman Park
With shouts of anticipation and encouragement, and many waving flags of peace, the racers began the marathon escorted by a convoy of police cars and motorcycles. A dozen ambulances and groups of security guards stood on the sidelines.
Serious racers stretched on the sidelines, silently gearing up for the grueling 21km race ahead. Other groups laughed as they prepared themselves and their loved ones for the less-lengthy races and other family events.
Media crews and camera men added to the excitement in the Kurdistan region's capital, showing the potential of the international marathon as another tourism draw to a region that has been better known for its proximity to violence.
The event, which was first held in 2011, was cancelled last year due to the potential threat of the Islamic State, or ISIS, which had overrun many areas close to Erbil.
"Many people in Erbil are terrified because of ISIS, so we are here to keep them safe," said Abdullah Bajalan, 19, who volunteered as security for the race.
Bajalan said the fact that ISIS remains close to the city made holding the marathon ever more crucial.
"Nowhere else in Iraq is there something like this. It's important to bring people here to see our culture."
The race-course was cleared by 480 traffic police who cleared roads, set up signs and directed the runners. More than 180 race officials will be on hand to officiate the race, which will be covered by some 100 international sports reporters.
The Erbil Marathon’s features three races categorized by distance, including a 21km half marathon, and 10km and 6km competitions.
The countries will be represented in the race include Russia, the United States, Canada and Jordan among many others. The winning time for the last marathon, in 2013, was 2 hours and 33 minutes, achieved by Kenya's Vincent Cheruiyot. Iraq natives took the silver and bronze medals.
The marathon was launched four years ago by local citizens seeking to bring hope and health to a country that has been scarred by violence and war. The event's official website says the race is also held "to inform the world that there is a strong community committed to peace and non-violence and justice for their country and that is supported by a wide range of international partners and supporters."
