The Casablanca International Marathon: 15.000 participants expected
The Casablanca International Marathon returns for its 15th edition! The legendary race, which will make its return to the iconic Place Mohammed V, is aiming to top the 10,000 mark this year, while offering a course that is both urban and safe. The event, supported by Casablanca Events & Animation, is aimed at professionals and novices alike. Its primary aim? To help make Casablanca a sporting city par excellence and attract more tourists and opportunities. “ Through this event, we aim to boost Casablanca’s profile on the international scene. Above all, the marathon is a showcase for the city’s vibrancy”, said Mohamed Jouahri, CEO of Casablanca Events & Animation.
Another goal is to promote a healthy lifestyle and physical activity. “It is important to raise awareness among residents and visitors to the White City of the importance of practicing sport on a regular basis in order to live as healthily as possible”, added the manager.
The program includes disciplines adapted to the level and physical condition of each runner, including a 42-kilometer (26.2 mile) marathon (for experienced competitors), a half-marathon, and a 10-kilometer (6.21 mile) race for beginners. But that’s not the whole story. “This year’s edition will also feature the Kids Run, a race reserved for younger runners, aimed at detecting tomorrow’s athletes in a festive and sporting setting”.
The course has been carefully designed to help participants discover or rediscover the center of Casablanca and its architectural gems. It is a way of highlighting the city’s historic sites, such as the art-deco buildings in the city center, the legendary Mohammed V complex and the Hassan II mosque. “It is an architectural marvel built on water”, said the man in charge.
The financial rewards will be significantly higher this year. Finishers rewards will be doubled to 120,000 dirhams (USD 12,000). Rewards for outstanding performance will rise to 200,000 dirhams (USD 20,000): “ A way of crowning the elite of the discipline and encouraging its followers to push themselves to the limit”, said Jouahri.
Karim AGOUMI
