Porto Dead Sea Ultra Marathon kicks off

AMMAN — The 22nd annual run of the International Dead Sea Ultra Marathon “Porto Dead Sea Ultra Marathon” kicks off on Friday with the participation of more than 7,000 runners representing various countries around the world.

The event is organised by Run Jordan, the sole entity dedicated to bringing together different marathon events and races under one umbrella.

According to Lina Kurd, Run Jordan deputy general manager, the marathon will be a special event.

“We are really excited this year since we have lots of new preparations which will result in us having a more professional event with high standards. We are working hand in hand with our strategic partner, the Greater Amman Municipality, to make sure that all the necessary arrangements have been made,” she said.

“This year being the 22nd edition of the Dead Sea Ultra Marathon, we have gathered the past years’ experience to organise an excellent event that provides a shining example on promoting positive lifestyles and a healthy Jordanian society. In addition many runners representing various countries such as Germany, Korea, the US and France will be taking part in the event as the marathon plays a big role in promoting Jordan as a touristic country with sport and healthy lifestyle ambitions,” she added.

According to Kurd, the marathon is a family event.

“There is nothing better than having the whole family participating in one exciting event and this is what Run Jordan provides in all its activates, and as we call it the 3Fs: Friendly, Family and Fun,” she said. 

The marathon consists of three events: Ultra Marathon, Half Marathon and the 10k Fun Run. Registered participants will embark on the 50km journey starting at 6am from the 1st traffic light after 8th Circle, towards Airport Road in front of Total Gas Station; while the half marathon runners will start their 21km run at 7am 3km after the zero point towards the Amman tourist beach near the central vegetable market.

The 10km Fun Run will start the race 2km after the Baptism Site/Dead Sea curve at 10am. Moreover, the 10km wheel chairs and visually impaired race begins 2km after the Baptism Site/Dead Sea curve at 9:50am. All Races end at 1pm with the last whistle to announce the end of the allowed running period.

“For many years the marathon was linked with charity work especially with the Society for Care of Neurological Patients and we are proud to be part of this drive,” Kurd said.