The Organization

Erbil Marathon Organization For Sport & Peace 

Erbil Marathon Organization for Sport & Peace is a non-governmental non-profit sport organization founded officially in April 2015 under Iraqi Kurdistan Region laws. However, it starts its activities under (Iraqi Kurdistan NGOs Network) in 2008 and have successfully organized the first international marathon in 2011. Erbil Marathon Organization aims to organize sport and social activities and in particular running and marathons. Erbil Marathon use sport as a powerful tool to spreading peace, community change, fundraising campaigns and empower women and youth. Erbil Marathon Organization is first in its kind in Kurdistan & Iraq.

 

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The Erbil Marathon Organization is dedicated to promoting sports, health, and social unity through its well-organized running events in Kurdistan. Committed to inclusivity, it hosts various races, including the Erbil International Marathon, Hope Run, Women’s Run, Kids Fun Run, and People with Disabilities Run, encouraging participation from all segments of society. The organization works closely with local and international partners to ensure seamless event management, safety, and community engagement. By fostering a culture of running and fitness, the Erbil Marathon Organization continues to inspire individuals and bring people together for causes that promote peace, resilience, and a healthier future.

Our
Mission

The Erbil International Marathon is dedicated to organizing a world-class running event that promotes fitness, resilience, and social harmony. Our mission is to bring together runners of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a spirit of unity, gender equality, and youth empowerment. Through this marathon, we aim to inspire a healthy lifestyle, encourage community engagement, and support meaningful causes, making a lasting impact on individuals and society.

Our
Vission

The Erbil International Marathon envisions a future where running unites people of all backgrounds, fostering peace, health, and community spirit in the Kurdistan Region and beyond. We strive to make Erbil a recognized hub for international sports and cultural exchange, inspiring individuals to embrace an active lifestyle, break barriers, and promote inclusivity through the power of running.

Our
history

The Erbil Marathon was founded in 2011 as the first international marathon in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, aiming to promote peace, coexistence, and a healthy lifestyle through sports. Organized by local and international supporters, it has grown into a major annual event, attracting runners from different backgrounds, including professionals, amateurs, and international participants. The marathon has served as a symbol of unity, bringing together diverse communities to run for social causes such as gender equality, youth empowerment, and humanitarian support. Over the years, it has expanded to include various race categories, making it accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels, solidifying Erbil’s place on the global running map.

Key Objectives

  • Promote a Running Culture – Encourage running as a healthy and inclusive activity within the community.
  • Advocate for Peace Through Sport – Use sports as a unifying force to promote peace and social harmony.
  • Host Charity Runs – Organize fundraising events to support humanitarian causes.
  • Support IDPs and Refugees – Use sports to bring awareness and assistance to displaced communities.
  • Champion Environmental Initiatives – Promote climate action and sustainability through sports events.
  • Organize the Erbil International Marathon – Host the annual marathon, attracting local and international participants.
  • Engage Youth and Children in Sports – Organize running events to encourage an active lifestyle from a young age.
  • Promote Sports Tourism – Attract runners and visitors to Erbil, positioning it as a regional hub for sports.
  • Foster a Healthier Generation – Inspire children and youth to stay active and embrace fitness.
  • Empower Women in Sports – Encourage female participation in running and sports events.
  • Support Running Clubs – Strengthen and expand running communities.
  • Encourage School and University Sports Activities – Advocate for athletic programs in educational institutions.
  • These initiatives contribute to a healthier, more active, and socially connected society in Erbil and beyond.