Second “Run for Birzeit” Race raises money for Birzeit University Students

Of the 2300 runners who completed the Run for Birzeit Marathon, the seven female and male winners to cross the finish line on Birzeit University’s campus were Mutasem Suboh, Ahmad Al Sadeq, Aref Suliman, Lisa Al Tawil, Leen Basser, Mayar Kabha and Zainab Salam. Birzeit University Friends Association, the organizer of the event, announced that winning students receive a full scholarship for one semester, while the winners who are not students at Birzeit University won sports gear donated by Adidas.

The Run for Birzeit race helps Birzeit University Friends Association raise considerable funds from participants, which are used to provide scholarships. According to Mohammad Al Masrouji, the president of the Friends of Birzeit University Association, the revenues from Run for Birzeit are expected to secure an extra 100 scholarships in addition to the 360 grants the association offers to Birzeit University students.

Ihab Mafarjeh, a student at the media department, was announced winner for the best video covering the event. Mafrajeh was offered a one-semester full scholarship by Birzeit University Friends Association.

The morning dawned with a fine breeze that had strengthened by the time the race started but did not seem to deter the competitors. Starting from Birzeit’s old town, they were soon on their way towards Birzeit University. Participants included university employees, students and local citizens who joined in to support the race’s cause; they ran around 4.5 kilometers.

The community spirit and family atmosphere was fantastic, and everyone enjoyed the event that included a pre-race warm-up led by Tri Fitness and family-friendly activities such as a scout’s march, a dabkeh performance, a show presented by Palestine Circus, a magic show with Momen Qassem, and a moppets play performed by the Palestinian Bible Society, among others.