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Women from across the kingdom are all set to run against domestic violence this evening while also raising funds for the crisis response centre, Shamsaha.
Lettuce Run, a fun play on the words ‘Let us Run’, was founded in Ramadan 2018 by triathletes and Ironman finishers Dana Zubari and Mariam Turki to provide a healthy environment for women to get fit while networking and giving back to the community.
“Mariam suggested we start something for women to encourage them to run a shorter distance. Several groups start from longer distances,” said Dana, 38, a co-owner of Tru Active, a colourful and comfortable sportswear fashion line.
“We love running because it is something that brings people together and it also provides mental discipline.”
The all-women running community that meets twice a week have taken part in food drives and breast cancer awareness runs – and now they are dashing for female rights and empowerment.
Dana, known across the island for loving lettuce, added: “We also believe that women should support each other and Shamsaha is a female led non-profit organisation to help women in crisis. We believe their objective aligns with our initiative to empower and support women.
“The goal of this run is to raise awareness that we do have women who deal with domestic violence and we need to come together as a community to help and educate these women into seeking out help and not being afraid of getting out of an abusive relationship.”
The 3km run will be held tonight at 9pm starting from Water Garden City. According to the recent Covid-19 social distancing protocol; people can only run in twos and must maintain a 2m distance as well.
Those that decide to walk must wear a mask at all times.
“We welcome all women to come together in supporting this beautiful cause,” added Dana, who has completed three Ironman 70.3 races in Spain, Bahrain and Dubai.
“It is something no one talks about and women are shamed for talking about it. If you haven’t signed up, please go ahead and do so.”
The entry fee is BD5 to be donated to Shamsaha. The run is only for females.
For details, follow @lettuce.run on Instagram. For those who would like to donate but not take part in the run, can contact Shamsaha directly @shamsaha_me on Instagram.
