Wasit hosts ‘Promising Governorate’ race to promote fitness among youth

WASIT — The Wasit Directorate of Youth and Sports organized the “Promising Governorate” race, drawing dozens of runners from youth forums and government institutions for a 1,500-meter race along the banks of the Tigris River.

The race began at the Kut Olympic Swimming Pool and ended at the newly constructed Corniche Street.

Alaa Al-Jurani, director of the Wasit Directorate of Youth and Sports, told 964media, “The Wasit Directorate of Youth and Sports organized the Promising Governorate Marathon, which included athletes from the College of Physical Education at Wasit University, the Wasit Education Directorate, and active youth forums under our directorate.”

He added, “The goal of this marathon is to introduce running as a sport, encourage participation, activate the principle of sports for all, and boost sports activities supported by the local government.”

Ahmed Qassem Hussein, who won first place, said, “I achieved first place thanks to my coaches Ali Al-Sagheer and Sobeih Nasser. I also thank everyone who supported me in this race, which covered a distance of 1,500 meters.”

Long-distance runner Saif Mohammed Mohsen added, “We came to Wasit Governorate today to participate in the marathon, and I managed to achieve an advanced position through my personal efforts. Through these initiatives and sports in general, we aim to send messages to young people to stay away from anything harmful to their health, such as smoking and drugs. We also thank the organizers for the success of the marathon.”