Fez – Today, the city of Fez hosted the annual Fez Spiritual Marathon, a celebration of fitness and community spirit.
The early morning started out rainy, but that did not tarnish the runners excitement as they eagering took their places at the start line.
The event kicked off at 8:00 a.m. at the Rond-Point Bab Chems, with the marathon, and then again at 9:15 a.m. for the semi-marathon and the 10km. Participants from various age groups and backgrounds came from all over Morocco and the world to run together through the historic streets of Fez.
The marathon featured three main races: the full marathon (42.195 km), the half marathon (21.1 km), and a 10 km race.
As the route weaved around, and even through, the alleyways of Fez El-Bali, each race offered runners a chance to experience the city’s rich culture and stunning architecture.
The courses were designed to showcase Fez’s ancient medina, markets, and beautiful Moroccan buildings, providing a uniquely Moroccan backdrop for the runners.
Winners
Marathon
In the men’s full marathon category, Azzeddine Feraoun from Morocco came in first with a chip time of 2 hours, 18 minutes and 53 seconds.
He was closely followed by Hicham Sadouq (2:18:54), also from Morocco, and Erick Ndiema Leon (2:20:13) from Kenya in third.
In the women’s full marathon category, Senbete Gelane Bulbula from Ethiopia took first with a chip time of 2:39:04.
She was followed by Phillarts Jepkemot Yego (2:49:15) from Kenya and Aziza El Amrany (2:49:49) representing Morocco.
Semi Marathon
In the semi-marathon male category, Meshack Kimutai from Kenya came in first with a chip time of 1 hour, 5 minutes, and 17 seconds. He was followed by Mounir El Ouali (1:05:44) and Said Ben Akka (1:08:45), both representing Morocco.
In the semi-marathon women’s category, Irene Chepchirchir Korir from Kenya came in first with a chip time of 1 hour, 15 minutes and 31 seconds. She was followed by Moroccan athletes Kaltoum Bouassrai (1:15:37) and Sana Achahbat (1:16:18).
10km
In the 10km category, Moroccan athletes triumphed, taking the top three spots for both the men and women’s categories.
For the men, Jamal Hitran led the pack with a chip time of 29 minutes and 10 seconds, followed by Aziz Hemmani (29:16) and Anass Zerraqui (29:27).
For the women’s category, Hajar El Haddioui came in first with a chip time of 35:23, followed by Aya El Fathi (37:56) and Asmae Mrini (38:06).
A truly Moroccan race
The competition was fierce, with athletes pushing their limits to achieve personal bests.The event was not limited to elite runners; it welcomed participants of all ages and abilities.
Elderly individuals, women, children, and middle-aged runners all took part, embodying the marathon’s inclusive spirit.
Families ran together, with their friends and even their dogs as everyone encouraged each other, creating a supportive and festive atmosphere.
Runners navigated the city’s winding streets, cheered on by enthusiastic spectators who lined the routes.
Local Amazigh musicians and Issawa performers added to the lively ambiance, celebrating the fusion of athleticism and culture.
Organized by Dila Athlétique, the Fez Spiritual Marathon aims to promote health, unity, and the rich heritage of Fez.
The event demonstrated the historic city’s commitment to fostering community engagement through sports.
Participants commended the well-organized race, scenic routes, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
As the day concluded, an awards ceremony recognized the top finishers in each category with the special presence of Moroccan Olympic champion Soufiane El Bakkali, who passed out the prizes to the winners.
However, beyond the prizes, the marathon’s inclusive atmosphere truly celebrated the collective achievement of all who participated, making everyone a champion in their way.
Runners left with a sense of accomplishment and memories of a day where tradition and athleticism came together in the heart of Morocco.
The Fez Spiritual Marathon continues to grow in popularity, attracting runners from around the world, and further putting Morocco on the map as a prime destination for the sport.
