A group photo of the sponsors with several winners at the Gulf Bank Challenge.

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 9: As part of its continuous preparations for the highly anticipated Gulf Bank 642 Marathon, scheduled to take place on November 29, Gulf Bank has proudly announced the launch of the second edition of the Gulf Bank Challenge. This initiative is designed to support, sponsor, and train ten participants to compete in Kuwait’s only internationally certified marathon, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment to community well-being and the promotion of sports as a vital pillar of a healthy lifestyle.

This year’s participants — five men and five women with an average age of 33 years old — were carefully selected from among hundreds of applicants, following a challenging evaluation process that measured their goals, dedication, and readiness to embark on this journey. The program offers them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to elevate their performance, build resilience, and achieve their athletic and personal ambitions.

Over the course of six weeks, the ten participants will undergo an intensive training program under the guidance of professional trainer Coach Mohammed Al-Hithal. This comprehensive program prepares them physically, mentally, and nutritionally, ensuring they are fully ready for the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon. It is powered by Gulf Bank’s ongoing partnership with SUFFIX, the sports event management company, and further supported by trusted partners including Nomo Nutrition Company, Clinic Medical Center, Intersport Kuwait, and Platinum Health Club. Together, these partners provide holistic support, from professional coaching and personalized nutrition plans to healthcare and fitness resources.

Commitment to Sports and Community HealthDuring a special ceremony to announce the winners of the Gulf Bank Challenge, Najla Aleisa, Chief Marketing Officer at Gulf Bank, commented: “We are proud to launch the second edition of the Gulf Bank Challenge, which reflects our ongoing commitment at Gulf Bank to promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle within the community. We believe that sports can bring about real and positive change, and this initiative empowers participants to push past their limits, prepare thoroughly for competition, and achieve their dreams- whether by winning or by breaking their personal records. Our goal is not only to prepare athletes for a race but also to inspire a movement toward healthier living across the country.”

The ten selected participants expressed their heartfelt gratitude and excitement at being chosen for this exceptional opportunity. They thanked Gulf Bank and its partners for their unwavering support, affirming that the Gulf Bank Challenge marks the beginning of a remarkable journey toward their athletic and personal goals. Many participants highlighted how the program has already instilled in them a renewed sense of confidence, determination, and optimism. They emphasized that the tailored guidance they receive in training, nutrition, and healthcare serves as a strong motivation to overcome challenges and to strive for excellence both on and off the track.

About the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon

The Gulf Bank 642 Marathon has grown to become one of Kuwait’s most prominent annual sporting events, drawing thousands of runners and sports enthusiasts from across Kuwait and around the globe. The event is more than a race; it is a festival of health, unity, and determination. It represents an open invitation for individuals of all ages and fitness levels to embrace healthier lifestyles, adopt fitness as a daily habit, and experience the transformative power of sports.

At a time when lifestyle-related illnesses such as diabetes, obesity, and heart disease are on the rise, the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon emphasizes the urgent need for physical fitness and wellness. The event also plays a vital role in supporting Kuwait’s tourism, sports, and healthcare sectors, with participants and spectators contributing to the local economy while enjoying a world-class sporting experience.

The unique marathon course highlights Kuwait’s most iconic landmarks, including the Kuwait Towers, Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Cultural Centre, the Grand Mosque, Souq Al-Mubarakiya, and the Gulf Bank Headquarters, offering runners a scenic and memorable route that combines the excitement of competition with the beauty of the country’s heritage and culture.

Marathon Categories

The marathon includes four race categories designed to accommodate participants of all backgrounds and abilities:

• 5 KM Walk or Run – open to participants aged 11 years and older

• 10 KM Run – open to participants aged 16 years and older

•Half Marathon (21 KM) – open to participants aged 18 years and older

• Full Marathon (42 KM)

Registration is now open, and those interested in participating can register through the official website: www.gulfbank642marathon.com

By organizing the Gulf Bank Challenge and the Gulf Bank 642 Marathon, Gulf Bank continues to demonstrate its role as a leading advocate for sports, health, and community engagement in Kuwait. These initiatives underscore the Bank’s belief in the power of perseverance, teamwork, and determination, while inspiring the broader community to embrace fitness and strive for personal growth.