World record holder ambassador for Al Mouj marathon

The Al Mouj Muscat Marathon has seen record-breaking numbers in each successive year since it was first held in 2012. This year saw over 6,000 runners representing no fewer than 87 nationalities across all the categories – a 370 per cent increase on 2017 – and organisers Oman Sail are targeting a further step-change in 2019.

At the same time a long-term development plan has a target of 15,000 participants by 2022, with at least 20 per cent travelling from

overseas as a result of Oman’s growing reputation as a premier sports tourism destination.

The 2018 edition was formally recognised by world running’s international governing body the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), and the Muscat coastal course was certified to International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) standards. Before the 2019 marathon Radcliffe will come to the Sultanate for an ‘Experience Oman’ visit which will take place on Jebel Akhdar in the breathtaking Al Hajar mountain range, the popular turquoise pools of Wadi Shab, a diving trip to the internationally acclaimed Damaniyat Islands, and a tour of Muscat including the Royal Opera House, Grand Mosque and Muttrah Souq.

She will also meet schoolchildren and the public at special ‘Meet Paula’ sessions, provide training tips for the Al Mouj Muscat Marathon, and get a sneak preview of sections of the course. Registered runners will have the opportunity to be photographed with her on Race Pack collection days before the marathon itself.

Radcliffe retired from competitive running in 2015. In her career she won both the London and New York marathons on three occasions, and has been European champion over 10,000m and in the cross-country. Her numerous accolades include IAAF World Athlete of the Year (2002), AIMS World Athlete of the Year (2002, 2003 and 2005) and BBC Sports Personality of the Year. She was awarded the MBE in 2002.