Launch of the third edition of 'Gulf Challenge'

As part of its ongoing preparations to organize the Gulf Bank Marathon 642, Gulf Bank announced the names of the ten winners of the third consecutive edition of the “Gulf Bank Challenge,” selected from among 260 applicants. These winners will participate in a comprehensive six-week training and nutrition program in preparation for competing in Kuwait’s only globally certified marathon.

During the winners’ announcement ceremony, the bank renewed its invitation to all segments of society to participate in the Gulf Bank Marathon 642, scheduled for November 30 next year, with registration remaining open for its four categories: a 5-kilometer walk or run, a 10-kilometer run, a half-marathon of 21 kilometers, and a full marathon of 42 kilometers.

The marathon welcomes everyone, whether professional runners, first-time participants, or those interested in walking, fostering a sports-oriented and community atmosphere that encourages physical activity and reflects the spirit of cohesion and interaction among members of Kuwaiti society.

The ten challenge participants represent diverse age groups and varying levels of experience and fitness, with the youngest participant being 20 years old.

Their ambitions range from completing their first 5-kilometer race and preparing for longer distances, to returning to running after a period of inactivity, and ultimately making sports an essential and sustainable part of their daily lives.

Over the next six weeks, participants will benefit from a specialized training program supervised by coach Mohammed Al-Hudhal, along with memberships at Platinum Sports Club, sports apparel and equipment provided by Intersport, and nutritional support from Namoo. These partners will help participants achieve their individual goals and develop healthy habits they can maintain even after the marathon concludes.

In her speech, Nujla Al-Eissa, Head of Marketing at Gulf Bank, congratulated the winners, expressing her delight at the significant diversity among them in terms of ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels. She noted that participants’ ages range from young adults to those with prior sports experience, and that their goals vary from returning to physical activity and completing their first 5-kilometer race, to preparing for longer distances or making sports a permanent part of their daily routines.

Al-Eissa stated, “We selected these participants based on their genuine desire to bring about positive changes in their lives, which may inspire others to take the same step. We are pleased to witness growing awareness of the importance of health and fitness in society, particularly among young people. Through the Gulf Bank Challenge and the marathon, we aim to support this positive trend and encourage everyone to participate.”

She added, “We hope that members of society will follow the participants’ journey, including its challenges, achievements, and inspiring experiences, and find in them the motivation to try it themselves. The marathon represents a goal that participants strive to achieve, while the self-confidence, friendships, and healthy habits they gain during this journey are accomplishments that stay with them beyond the finish line.”

Al-Eissa renewed her invitation for everyone to take part in the twelfth edition of the Gulf Bank Marathon 642, regardless of their objectives, whether to achieve a personal sports milestone or to enjoy a special sports day with family and friends.

For his part, Ahmed Al-Majed, Chief Operating Officer at Savix, the organizer of the 642 Gulf Bank Marathon, stated that the Gulf Bank Challenge represents a distinctive initiative that contributes to enhancing community engagement and encouraging individuals to adopt a more active and healthy lifestyle. He emphasized the company’s commitment to providing an exceptional experience for participants through meticulous planning and organization in accordance with the highest standards.

In a similar vein, Ali Al-Baghl, Director of Marketing and Public Relations at Platinum Sports Club, underscored the importance of providing a motivating training environment that helps participants improve their fitness levels and prepare for the marathon through programs tailored to their abilities and goals. He noted that consistent training is a fundamental step toward achieving positive results and establishing sports as an integral part of daily life.

Saud Al-Muaili, Assistant Marketing Manager at Intersport, clarified that the company’s support for the Gulf Bank Challenge stems from its belief in the importance of sports in promoting health and quality of life. He affirmed the company’s commitment to supplying the necessary sports apparel and equipment to support participants’ readiness and motivate them to continue their athletic journey.

For his part, Hamad Baqer, Business Development Manager at Namou Company, highlighted the significance of balanced nutrition in supporting physical performance and maximizing the benefits of sports training. He pointed out that providing nutritional guidance to participants during the challenge period will help them build sustainable healthy habits, the positive effects of which will extend beyond the marathon.