Abu Dhabi, February 19th 2010 – His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and His Excellency Kenneth Lewis, Canadian Ambassador to the UAE , opened the 15th annual Abu Dhabi Terry Fox Run (TFR) today, which was attended by special guest, sister of the late Terry Fox, Ms. Judith Fox-Adler.
It was estimated that close to 16,000 people showed up to participate in the charitable event, with more than AED165,000 raised on the day itself.
This was the Capital’s 15th Run, which was held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Advisor to His Highness the President of the UAE. His son, H.E Sheikh Mohammed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and H.E. Kenneth Lewis, Canadian Ambassador to the UAE, both opened the event. Terry Fox’s sister, Judith, was invited from Canada to mark the 15th anniversary of this locally held Run, alongside Breeda McClew from the International Terry Fox Foundation.
It was estimated that the Run attracted over 16,000 participants, with more than AED165,000 in funds raised on the day itself. Every dirham raised will be donated locally to the Faculty of Medicine in the UAE University to fund innovative cancer research projects headed by UAE-based medical professionals.
This year’s event saw some changes which excited everybody. It took off from a new venue- on the cross section of 30th St (Khaleej Al Arabi) and the Corniche, which eased the traffic situation compared to last year. Instead of a band, a local DJ entertained the crowds, followed by not one, but three fitness instructors who conducted a quick cardio routine as a pre-Run warm-up. The Abu Dhabi Police’s 40-member Band made a special appearance and played the UAE and Canadian National anthems, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all. Adding to the festive air, a Drumming Band delighted the crowd by adding rhythm to the proceedings at the Run’s turning point, motivating participants to finish the entire 8.5km route.
Cheque donations are still being accepted. Please email abudhabiterryfoxrun@gmail.com
H.E. SHK Mohammed and Guests
The youngest participant