The Safwa Runners team in the city of Safwa in the Eastern Province has been maintaining its daily running routine for 25 years, a unique sporting phenomenon that reflects remarkable commitment and perseverance. This group comprises 50 runners who cover distances of up to 20 kilometers daily, aiming to combat obesity and promote a culture of walking and running to enhance physical and mental health. What distinguishes this team is their commitment to wearing a uniform for every run, reflecting their strong team spirit and high level of discipline.
Historically, community sports initiatives in Saudi Arabia have been a vital part of cultural and health development. The idea for this team originated at a time when street running and running in public spaces were not as common as they are today. A quarter of a century later, this group has become an inspiring community model closely aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the Quality of Life Program, which aims to increase the percentage of people who participate in sports. The athletes' tireless dedication, running five days a week, reflects a fundamental shift in individual health awareness.
The role of “Safwa Runners” in spreading the culture of running and combating obesity
Team leader Captain Hussein Al-Marhoon, who boasts a distinguished 42-year athletic career, explained that the primary goal of this gathering is to promote a culture of running within the community and effectively combat the scourge of obesity. Al-Marhoon noted that the team's consistent commitment to sports has instilled in members aged between 60 and 70 the vitality and energy of youth, emphasizing that age is merely a number in the face of strong will and genuine determination. The team includes members ranging in age from 18 to 70, making it an inclusive environment for all generations.
Regarding adapting to different seasons, the team leader explained that they have a high degree of flexibility in adjusting their schedules. During the holy month of Ramadan, the times are adjusted to run an hour and a half before Iftar to accommodate those fasting, while also allowing running two hours after Iftar, in accordance with medical recommendations that ensure the safety of the participants and prevent them from becoming fatigued.
Local and regional impact of sports initiatives
The significance of this sporting event extends beyond the city of Safwa, leaving a tangible regional and local impact. Team member Ali Al-Awami stated that the team operates under strict organization, with the leader setting the morning departure time and daily motto, and strict adherence to the uniform and predetermined distances. He added that the team's goals go beyond mere daily practice to establishing a comprehensive healthy lifestyle through extensive participation in national events and sporting activities at both the local and Gulf levels. This regional presence contributes to encouraging neighboring communities to adopt similar initiatives to reduce the high rates of obesity in the Arabian Gulf region.
In a poignant description of the importance of this sport, member Hassan Al-Dawood likened walking and running to a "mobile pharmacy" that grants its practitioners happiness and well-being and protects them from chronic diseases, urging everyone to overcome fatigue by maintaining physical activity. In a related vein, member Barir Mohammed emphasized the close link between sports and physical and mental health, extending an open invitation to all members of society to embrace this positive culture and make it an integral part of their daily routine.
