Fujairah Terry Fox Run Raises Money for Cancer Research and Builds Community

This is a press release issued in Arabic and English by the Organizing Committee of the 2nd Fujairah Terry Fox Run.

Patron and Partners

Under the patronage of His Highness, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, the Crown Prince of Fujairah, the Higher Colleges of Technology—Fujairah in collaboration with community partners, organized the second annual Terry Fox Marathon of Hope in Fujairah, UAE.

The event was held on Saturday 25 February 2012. Registration took place online but a registration desk also opened at 7.30am. The run/walk/ride commenced at 9.10am after speeches and warm up exercises to loosen the limbs.

Welcome

HCT—Fujairah Director, Dr. Dave Pelham, welcomed people to the gathering as well as two special guests who made brief speeches: Kris Panday, the Canadian Consul General from Dubai and Dr. Frank Branicki, of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at the UAEU in Al Ain.

Increase in Groups

The Organizing Committee was pleased with the increased participation from volunteer groups and businesses, many of whom donated refreshments for the hungry participants at the finishing line.



Strong Community Spirit

Families with children and baby strollers, children and adults with skateboards, rollerblades and bicycles all participated. Children enjoyed having their faces painted and many women had their hands hennaed. The Fujairah Media had arranged lively music to help create a vibrant atmosphere. There was a strong sense of community and a delight in doing something positive about cancer.

Statistics

This year nearly 700 people participated in the run, which represents a 64% increase over last year’s inaugural event.

Thus far 50,000 AED has been received (individuals and groups may still make their donations), which represents an increase of 68% over last year’s contributions.