Marathon Club: From a Passion for Running to a Thriving Community Promotes Health, Fitness, and Challenge

Marathon running is one of the world’s oldest sports, symbolizing endurance and resilience to the long- distance challenges. Today, this sport is no longer exclusive to professionals; it has evolved into a widely popular and social hobby that attracts enthusiasts worldwide. Among many clubs in the kingdom “Marathon Club” stands out as a key player in this movement. It operates under The National Portal for Hobbies "Hawi", an initiative of the Quality of Life Program, which is a part of Saudi Vision 2030. 

“Hawi” Transforms Passion into a Thriving Club

The club was born out of a passion for running and the desire to overcome the limitations faced by many runners. Talal Al-Mutairi, the leader of Marathon Club, decided to turn his personal love for running into a collective experience. "Hawi" provided the perfect platform, fostering an environment where running hobbyists could connect, share experiences, and support one another.

Al-Mutairi explained' “The idea came from my passion for running and my desire to share it with others. I noticed that many people ran alone, so I thought of creating a community where they could connect, exchange experiences, and support each other. "Hawi" was the ideal place to bring this idea to life, as it provides a supportive environment for clubs and hobbies.”

He added: “The club started with just four members, but within a year, grew to more than 40, thanks to the increased visibility and reach provided by "Hawi". Our members now come from different regions across the Kingdom, though our primary focus remains on Qassim region and Unaizah city, where our headquartered is located”.

Marathons and Activities

According to Al-Mutairi, the club is dedicated not only to raising awareness about the health benefits of running, but also to building a strong support network for its members. The club organizes various activities, including early morning races, nutrition and fitness workshops, participation in local and international marathons, and recreational group runs in public parks.

He highlighted the club’s recent success in Riyadh Marathon, where two members completed the challenging race—an achievement that has motivated them to take on future competitions.

Looking ahead, Al-Mutairi and his team aspire to expand, collaborate with other running clubs, and offer specialized training programs—demonstrating a clear vision for fostering the marathon-running culture in the Kingdom.

Overcoming Challenges

Al-Mutairi noted:"Hobbyists often struggle with maintaining consistent training due to busy schedules. In some areas, there are limited designated running spaces. However, these obstacles haven’t deterred our members; instead, they have become a source of motivation for improvement. Our runners utilize tools such as specialized running shoes, smartwatches, and fitness apps to track their progress and enhance their performance.”

Inspiring Success Stories

 Al-Mutairi shared one of the club’s most inspiring stories" A new member once attempted a marathon without prior training. After few steps, he realized how challenging it was and understood that proper preparation is the key to success. Today, he has become a model of perseverance and determination, sharing his journey to inspire others.”

He added: “These uplifting stories and the club’s supportive environment are what make Marathon Club special—it’s a place for learning, growth, and motivation for everyone.”

More Than Just Runners—A Community Built on Passion

At the end of the conversation, Al-Mutairi emphasized that Marathon Club is more than just a group of runners; it is a testament to how small, determined steps can create a thriving community built on passion, perseverance, and achievement.

The marathon has a rich history dating back to the 5th century BCE, when the Greek soldier "Pheidippides" ran approximately 40 kilometers from Marathon to Athens to deliver news of his army’s victory over the Persians. This historic run later became a global symbol of endurance and determination.

Through The National Portal for Hobbies "Hawi", the Kingdom has opened new doors for hobbyists across various fields. This initiative has played a crucial role in enhancing quality of life by encouraging hobbies that promote personal development, mental well-being, and skill acquisition—proving that passion can indeed lead to purpose.