5,000 athletes to take part in international marathon of Marrakesh

Over 5,000 athletes will take part in the 15th edition of the international marathon of Marrakesh, to be held in January 18, organizers have said.

Mohamed Knidri, Chairman of Grand Atlas association that is organizing the event told the press, in Casablanca Wednesday, the aim is to make of this sports event an important rendezvous for the stars of marathons, recalling that the last edition grouped top runners of fourteen African, European and American countries.

According to organizers, the marathon will also be an exceptional tourism event that will attract thousands of tourists. Nearly 1000 Frenchmen are expected to attend the event part of an operation made in cooperation with the marathon of Paris.

On the fringes of the event, children aged between 8 and 13 will take part in a 3 Km-length race to initiate them to this kind of sport.