Many struggle with basic things we take for granted. Disabled children, especially, need courage to face up their daily hurdles. Will you be their beacon of hope and encouragement?

Since it first launched in 2012, the Almaty Marathon has aided sick and disadvantaged children in various ways. Last year, over 19,000 runners came together to raise funds to build a sporting arena for children with severe speech disorders. In 2016, the 5^th edition will raise funds for medical apparatuses to aid in locomotor recovery in the ARDI Rehabilitation Center.

Join thousands of runners and stand in solidarity with these needy children on Sunday, 24 April 2016.

The annual event features a 42.195 km full marathon, 21 km half marathon, 10 km race open to runners aged 15 and above, and a 3 km race for children and youths aged 10 to 14 years old. There will also be an Ekiden category so teams of six members can conquer the marathon distance in a relay race together.

The 42.195 km, 21 km, 10 km and Ekiden will start at the First President's Park while the 3 km will take place at the Nurly Tau Business Centre. All races will finish at The Central Station, where runners will receive commemorative medals.

Fun Fact: Did you know that the length of all the commemorative medal ribbons can encircle Almaty? Besides being Kazakhstan's largest metropolis, Almaty city is a world-renowned sports centre. Nestled in the foothills of the Trans-Ili Alatau mountains, the city has many scenic nature parks for runners and accompanying family and friends to explore.

Muster Up Courage

…and take part in this international charity sports event!

From now till 31 March 2016, the minimum entry fee for participating in the 42.195 km, 21 km or 10 km races is 3,000 KZT, and 2,000 KZT for the 3 km run. You can also get exclusive event T-shirts when you register online at just 2,000 KZT each.

From 1 April till registration closes on 17 April 2016, the minimum entry fee for the 42.195 km, 21 km and 10 km races will be 4,000 KZT.

Remember, funds raised from the registration fees will go towards a meaningful charitable cause!

Find out more and register online on the official Almaty Marathon website.

What makes you brave? Perhaps signing up for a race in a new country will boost your mettle.