The inaugural ADNIC Yas Run got off to a flying start this afternoon with more than 5,500 participants and spectators flooding through the gates at Yas Marina Circuit to race on the world-renowned F1 track. Of the runners in first event of the day, the children’s 1km race, it was 11 year old Declan Ball who scooped victory with a time of 3 minutes and 54 seconds. First to cross the final line and winning the girls’ 1km was 11 year old, Lucy Preston of Brighton College with a time of 4 minutes and 11 seconds.

More than 900 school children across the UAE entered the children’s 1km and 3km races, including pupils from Al Yasmina, Brighton College and Choeifat Abu Dhabi. The UAE’s top running and athletics clubs were also well represented with runners from Abu Dhabi Striders, Mirdif Milers and members of the UAE Athletics Federation set to race in the 10km main race.

An avid F1 fan, Australian, Lewis Hunt, 36 years, is looking forward to running in the 10km race on the track: “I’m a massive fan! I’ve been following F1 since the days of Senna and Prost. Completing the event under lights is as close as most people are going to get at being an F1 star!”.

At the Race Village, more than 3,000 spectators and supporters enjoyed a range of entertainment and activities. Children visiting the ADNIC stand, Title Partner of the ADNIC Yas Run, enjoyed face painting, watching a magician and stilt walkers, as well receiving a number of giveaways.

Running his first competitive race, James Chisnall, aged 9, from Abu Dhabi, commented: “I did the race because my mum and big brother are also competing. I wanted to see what it was like to be in a race with all the other people and getting my medal when I finished.”

The ADNIC Yas Run is the first internationally certified 10k race in the region.

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