Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon reveals stellar lineup

The race route and technical sponsor for the 2022 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon was revealed on Tuesday.

 The Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA) announced a stellar line-up of world-class runners set to compete in the highly anticipated race on Saturday, February 19.

Vying for the top spot in the world’s fastest half marathon are Kenya’s Abel Kipchumba and Brigid Kosgei.

They will compete against elite international athletes Jacob Kiplimo and reigning champion, Ababel Yeshaneh.

Intending to beat her half marathon personal best time of 1:04:49, current Marathon World Record Holder, Kosgei’s achievements include second place in the XXXII Olympic Games Marathon, first place in the 2020 and 2019 London Marathon and second place in the 2020 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon.

Joining Kosgei is Kipchumba, who secured the second-fastest time in the 2021 Half Marathon distance category, with a personal best of 58:07.

The show-stopping race will return to Marjan Island, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Arabian Gulf.

Known for its fast, flat course, the 2022 Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon’s refined route will kick off from Marjan Island Boulevard, right opposite the Double Tree by Hilton and the vibrant Race Village.

The race will then take runners on a beautiful course through the island, passing all major hotel destinations as they head along Sheikh Mohammed bin Salem Road, circle through Al Amwaj Avenue before heading back to the starting point to cross the finish line.

The official Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon 2022 race route is here. Stretching along the streets of the beautiful Al Marjan Island, get ready to be mesmerised by the Arabian Gulf. Reserve your spot today at the #RAKHalf2022- https://t.co/T7mZ3P2ZUghttps://t.co/KFI1xeaAqS

— Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon (@rakhalfmarathon) January 17, 2022

The race route offers spectators plenty of opportunities to watch and cheer athletes.

Additionally, spectators and runners alike can take advantage of the vibrant Race Village, which will offer exciting and interactive experiences, including live music, food trucks and family activities.

Leading Spanish sportswear equipment brand, JOMA, has also been announced as the technical sponsor for the world-class half marathon.

"The marathon has proven to be a huge success in previous years, and with only a few weeks till the upcoming race, we are excited to welcome back an incredible line-up of athletes and sports enthusiasts to our wonderful Emirate," said Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority.

The event will take place with robust safety precautions to safeguard the health and wellbeing of participants and spectators.

Precautions include a requirement for participants to show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination.