The organisers of the Dolphin Energy Doha Dash 2016 announced yesterday the return of Double Olympic gold medallist Dame Kelly Holmes as the event’s ambassador for the second year running. Dame Holmes will continue supporting the popular community event and will participate in the 2016 event which takes place on February 9  at Losail International Circuit in Doha.
Dame Holmes, who is widely recognised as one of the most accomplished British athletes, is best known for winning gold for the 800 and 1500 metres events at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens. She set British records in numerous events and still holds the UK national records for the 800, 1000, and 1500 metres distances. Though she retired from competition in 2005, Dame Holmes still enjoys running and is a strong advocate for leading a healthy and active lifestyle. In 2015, Dame Holmes became Doha Dash’s first international ambassador and she completed the 5k race during last year’s event.
Dame Kelly Holmes said: “I am thrilled to be returning for a second year as the official Dolphin Energy Doha Dash 2016 Ambassador. It is such a widely popular community event and I encourage the Doha Community to come out to Losail International Circuit on February 9th and join in the exciting races. It is crucial to support such events that encourage you to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, which are accessible to people from all backgrounds and abilities. Even if you are new to running, don’t be afraid to take on this exciting challenge; running is not only a great workout, but is also a lot of fun.”
Hassan al-Emadi, General Manager Qatar, Dolphin Energy, added: “We are absolutely delighted at the return of Dame Holmes as an ambassador for this year’s Dolphin Energy Doha Dash. She is a great role model for young sportspeople around the world and it is absolutely wonderful to welcome her in Doha once again to participate in the 2016 edition of Doha Dash, which we hope will attract thousands of runners, friends and families wanting to enjoy fun time exercising together.”
Supporting the vision behind the National Sports Day, The Dolphin Energy Doha Dash 2016, which has established itself as one of the most popular community events in the Qatari Capital, is held annually at the Losail International Circuit.  It has a race for everyone; a 5km run for those aged 12 and over (registration fee 100QAR), a 3km run (50QAR) for participants over 8, a 1km run for children and a 1km ladies walk, both of which are free of charge. The newest addition, a 10km run for those aged 15 and over (150QAR), is set to attract seasoned runners from across the city.
Participants can visit www.dohadash.com to find out more about the event. Registration for the Doha Dash 2016 is also open on the website.