The Erbil International Marathon is a premier running event in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, promoting peace, unity, and healthy living. Open to runners of all backgrounds, it features races of various distances, including the full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon, 10K, 5K, and special runs like the Hope Run and Women’s Run. Since its inception, it has brought together local and international participants, fostering a spirit of resilience, diversity, and community engagement.

In the 11th International Erbil Marathon, held on December 27, 2024, approximately 500 participants competed in a 21-kilometer race around Sami Abdulrahman Park. The event aimed to raise awareness about environmental preservation in Erbil. The top five finishers received cash prizes, while all participants were awarded medals. 

Among the participants were 50 runners from the organization Free to Run. Notably, Rahaf, a 13-year-old Syrian refugee, and Dima, from a small village in Iraq, placed 4th and 5th overall, respectively. Their achievements highlight the positive impact of sports participation on personal development and empowerment. 

Specific details about the top three male and female winners of the 2024 marathon were not available in the provided sources. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to consult the official Erbil Marathon website or their social media channels.