Agadir – Moroccan athlete Abdelhadi Labäli claimed victory in the men’s elite category, at the 36th edition of the Marrakech International Marathon on Sunday, finishing with an impressive time of 2 hours, 7 minutes and 34 seconds.
Over 15,000 runners from around the world gathered in the Red City today to compete on all levels in an event of high-athletism.
Second place was secured by the Ethiopian runner Mekonen Hayimoro Yele, followed by Moroccan Youness Benar in third.
The inaugural 5-kilometer race started in front of the Koutoubia Mosque near Jemaa el-Fna, welcoming participants of all ages and fitness levels, solo runners, families, and groups of friends.
The marathon organizers aim to promote running as a universal sport with the marathon, under the motto of “Course pour Tous, une victoire de tous!” (“A race for everyone, a victory for everyone!”). This edition reflects the event’s goal of including the city’s residents, visitors, and running enthusiasts all together.
By encouraging participation from all ages and backgrounds, the event was conceived as being inclusive, allowing participants to come together in a shared sense of community.
The Marrakech International Marathon has attracted elite and amateur runners since its inception in 1987, becoming a major event on the global road racing calendar.
In addition to elite competition, the marathon weekend featured cultural events, workshops, and activities for children, positioning Marrakech as not only a destination for athletic excellence but also a place for community engagement and cultural celebration.
