Egypt s sports community once again proves itself a mighty tool for good on 2 February as marathon runners hit the tarmac in Aswan in support of free heart surgery for children.
The second Aswan42 – Magdi Yacoub Heart Foundation Marathon will see hundreds of long-distance runners from around the world gathering in the Upper Egyptian city for a scenic plod along the banks of the River Nile.
The event is organized by TriFactory, an Egyptian sports management company specialising in running events that are often linked to fundraising for charity. It was TriFactory that organized the first Aswan42 event in February last year, with over 1,000 runners taking part.
Funds raised by this year s marathon will go to the Aswan Heart Center (AHC), which is affiliated with the Magdi Yacoub Heart Foundation (MYF). The AHC provides those from less privileged backgrounds with treatment for heart conditions.
The founder of the MYF, Egyptian surgeon Sir Magdi Yacoub, is expected to attend this year s marathon in person.
The event is another opportunity to showcase the beauty of Egypt to the world, with participants of many nationalities already signed up to take part.
The TriFactory website highlights the benefits of Aswan as a venue: "With beautiful scenery, temperate weather conditions, and completely flat terrain, it serves as an excellent host for a running race."
Participants can choose from various courses: a full marathon (42 km); a half marathon (21 km); or a 10 km run. There will also be a 1 km run for children under the age of 10.
Registration for the event remains open until 22 January, subject to available places.
