With a heavy heart, the Beirut Marathon Association recently announced the suspension of all its activities due to “the crisis caused by the combined effects of the economic crisis followed by the Covid-19 pandemic.”
“The Beirut International Marathon and all other races and programs are officially canceled for the year 2020,” they wrote on social media.
The association has been organizing charitable marathons since 2003. Led by May El-Khalil, the Beirut International Marathon is one of the region’s most successful running events.
The association has encouraged the development of the running community in Lebanon and spread positive messages through their activities every year.
To the sadness of many runners and non-runners alike, Beirut will not see this year one of its most beloved marathons nor any of the association’s activities that bring joy, life, and unity to the city.
During the October 17th revolution, the association had also struggled with their 17th edition Blom Bank Marathon, which they eventually canceled.
“It is a sad day indeed for all of us and for the country, but we know that this shall pass and better days are ahead. This is not goodbye. This is a see you later,” the association posted on social media.
Their post received kind messages of thankfulness to their activities and hopefulness that they will all meet once again in 2021.
“Thank you for the beautiful memories u gave me and gave all runners. This is a big loss indeed,” commented Randa Ajram.
