Jeddah Celebrates Saudi National Day with 2,000 Participants in Historic Run

On Friday, Jeddah witnessed a vibrant celebration of Saudi National Day as approximately 2,000 participants, including men, women, and children, took part in the Jeddah Green Spirit Run. This exciting event, organized by Masafat Club in collaboration with the Ministry of Sports, Sports for All Federation, and Jeddah Historic District, featured both 5 km and 2 km races, showcasing the spirit of unity and patriotism among the residents.

The run commenced from Bab Jadeed, located in the heart of the city’s Historic District, and was designed to bring the community together in a festive atmosphere. Khalid Yamani, the president of Masafat, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This event is more than just a race, it’s a celebration of our nation’s unity, diversity, and shared spirit." He emphasized that the event was open to families of all ages and nationalities, making it a true community gathering.

Yamani also noted the impressive turnout, saying, "Around 2,000 responded to the call, which exceeded the target that we thought would be achievable." This year marked the sixth anniversary of the annual event, which not only included the races but also featured displays of cultural traditions and family entertainment, making it a well-rounded celebration.

The routes for both races took participants past significant landmarks, including the Historical Hajj Pilgrimage Route, Bab Al Bunt, Beit Nassif, and Al Falah School. This scenic backdrop added to the festive atmosphere, allowing runners to appreciate the rich history of Jeddah while engaging in physical activity.

Among the participants was Abdul Mohsen Al-Najjar, who ran the 5 km race alongside his son, Adel. He shared his excitement, saying, "Celebrating our National Day along with all these runners is really something … I brought my son with me … to make him enjoy the run with pride as a Saudi." This sentiment of pride was echoed by many participants, highlighting the event's significance beyond just a physical challenge.

One of the oldest competitors, 70-year-old Hassan Al-Twairqi, expressed his passion for running, stating, "I have been running for many years and I will never stop doing what I love. Today, we celebrate our National Day … and I am very proud to be part of this run." His dedication serves as an inspiration to many, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passions.

Louis Tanjani, a Filipino resident in Jeddah, also participated, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Saudi National Day. He remarked, "It is a special day for this great country and it is our duty to celebrate with our fellow Saudis. Running today is a way to express our love to this country." His words reflect the inclusive spirit of the event, where people from various backgrounds came together to honor Saudi Arabia.

In terms of competition, Abdullah Al-Hasoli emerged as the winner of the 5 km race, finishing with an impressive time of 14:59, while Mohammed Nabil claimed victory in the 2 km event with a time of 9:58. Their achievements added a competitive edge to the festivities, showcasing the athletic talent present in the community.

The Jeddah Green Spirit Run not only celebrated Saudi National Day but also fostered a sense of community and togetherness among participants. Events like these remind us of the importance of unity and shared experiences, encouraging individuals to engage in healthy activities while celebrating their national identity. As the sun set on this memorable day, the spirit of patriotism and community pride lingered in the air, leaving participants eager for next year’s celebration.