Smara (Saharawi refugee camps), February 23, 2014 (SPS) - The participants to the 14th edition of the Sahara marathon started to arrive Saturday afternoon in the Wilaya of Smara, Saharawi refugee camps, to take part in this edition which kicks off Tuesday in the Wilaya of El Aaiun, according to organizers.
Runners will compete for distance of 42 km , 21 km ,10 km and 5 km, along with the festivities celebrating the 38th anniversary of SADR, added the same source.
Mr. Diego Muñoz, the general coordinator of the marathon, said the event is an expression of support and solidarity with the Saharawi people's struggle for their right to self-determination and independence.
The number is set to exceed 400 participants, including 300 foreigners and 111 Sahrawis, taking part in this edition, held under the theme "for the respect of human rights in Western Sahara," said the organizers.
The first edition of Sahara Marathon was organized in 2001 by American Jeb Carney, in collaboration with the U.S. Western Sahara Foundation. The kick off of the edition was given by U.S. congressman Joseph Pittsm, it should be recalled. (SPS)
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