Not only did the best international ultra-runners compete for the ‘IAU 50 KM World Championship 2016’ at Aspire Zone but some of them also had the opportunity to sample Qatar’s rich culture and tradition during the race.

Aspire Zone Foundation communications manager Hussain Ali al-Qahtani said international sporting events are also opportunities to showcase Qatar’s traditions to foreigners who are visiting the country for the first time.

Within the racing venue, al-Qahtani said Aspire had set-up a ‘fun area’, and includes a section where both the athletes and other visitors can ride or pose for a photograph with camels and falcons.

Also, the fun area featured a traditional Bedouin tent where visitors could try Arabic coffee and tea, as well as other traditional foods. There was also a section for face painting and henna painting.

“Apart from the international race, there are a lot of side activities to engage the community, meaning there are a lot of activities for kids to encourage them to come to Aspire and enjoy our facilities here.

“Qataris are known for their generosity and when it comes to people coming to their houses so, we’re trying to build that culture here among the community and all the foreign athletes visiting the Doha for the first time,” al-Qahtani told Gulf Times on the sidelines of the race.

Also, around 50 members of Soul Riders held a brief parade around the race circuit and displayed their bikes at the fun area, adding excitement to the event.

Citing “better weather,” al-Qahtani said the months from November to April are considered as the “peak season” for all Aspire Zone events, especially outdoor activities.

“This race is the first initiative that introduces the series of events lined up at Aspire until next year. In December, we will have the strongest man competition and we are already preparing for Doha’s biggest sporting event, which is the National Sports Day in February 2017.

“In the weekends, there are many activities happening around Aspire such pony rides and paddle boats, among others. Our target at Aspire Zone Foundation is to hold at least 1,000 events per year. And for 2016, we are already nearing that target because of the series of tournaments being held here,” al-Qahtani stressed.

Al-Qahtani emphasised that the objective of Aspire Zone Foundation is to engage the community, particularly families.

“There is a perception that Aspire Zone is only for professional athletes. But that is not all true. Aside from developing athletes, we’re also promoting a healthy lifestyle among the community members,” he said.