Wings for Life World Run to take place at Expo City Dubai on May 7

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

In just over a week, Expo City Dubai will welcome the highly anticipated Wings for Life World Run. The event will take place on Sunday, May 7, at 3pm.

This unique, global event invites participants from all walks of life to join together in support of spinal cord injury research by running (or walking) for those that can’t.

With an upbeat and fun atmosphere, the event, supported by Oakley, is the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself while contributing to a noble cause that has the power to change lives.

The Wings for Life World Run is known for its innovative format, where participants across the globe start running simultaneously. There is no traditional finish line; instead, a virtual ‘Catcher Car’ pursues the runners, gradually increasing in speed until it overtakes each participant. This creative set up allows runners of all abilities to compete and contribute to the cause.

Leading the calls for participation in this year's Dubai edition are Emirati Red Bull athlete, Mohammed Balooshi, and Wings for Life World Run ambassador, UAE-based athlete and two-time Guinness World Record holder, Ghada Shaikli.

Both inspiring competitors will be taking part and giving their support to encourage the community to participate in this life-changing event.

Balooshi, an internationally acclaimed motocross champion, is eager to see the city unite for this remarkable event.

"The Wings for Life World Run is not just a race; it's a powerful testament to human perseverance and the unyielding belief that we can overcome any obstacle. This is an event where your participation can literally change lives and bring hope to those affected by spinal cord injuries," says Balooshi.

"It's an honor to be part of this global movement, and I am excited to witness Dubai's spirit soar to new heights on May 7."

Ghada, a local fitness icon and passionate advocate for spinal cord injury research, echoed Balooshi's sentiments.

"As an ambassador for the Wings for Life World Run, I am thrilled to be a part of the 2023 event in Dubai. This is a unique opportunity to combine fitness, fun, and philanthropy – all while making a genuinely positive impact on the lives of others," she says.

One hundred percent of the event's entry fees and donations go directly to the Wings for Life Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to finding a cure for spinal cord injuries. Since its inception in 2014, the Wings for Life World Run has attracted over 700,000 participants from 195 nations, raising more than Dhs120 million for groundbreaking research projects.