VIVA Bahrain, through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, VIVA Jusoor, announced its sponsorship of the Kingdom's popular annual sporting and charity event, the Bahrain Marathon Relay 2012, which will start this year from the VIVA Karting Track in November 16th, 2012.

Organized by the Bahrain Round Table, this year marks the 32nd anniversary of the mega sporting event in the Kingdom. The race counts with the participation of over 150 teams representing private and public sectors, hotels, schools, fitness and social clubs amongst many others, that come together to promote a healthy lifestyle and raise funds for local charities. 

Bahrain International Circuit Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa commented, "The Bahrain Marathon Relay is one of the biggest annual events in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is proud to once again be involved as the official host venue. Every year, this event brings together thousands of people from all walks of life, both from Bahrain as well as from overseas. Its significance goes beyond the sporting and social spheres as the money raised goes back to the local community through various charitable initiatives. These go a long way in helping improve the daily lives of many across the country, and giving back to the people is something that BIC is fully committed to. We wish the runners and teams all the best, not just for the run itself but also in their training and preparations. We are looking forward to welcoming all those involved to celebrate an exciting and fun-filled day."

Leveraging its strategic partnership with the Bahrain International Circuit, VIVA Bahrain has extended support to the Bahrain Marathon Relay by setting the first stage of the race at the VIVA Karting Track. In addition, VIVA will sponsor two teams, the VIVA Jusoor team, which will be represented by the Migrant Workers Protection Society and the 'VIVA Running Team' that will be comprised of 16 staff members. 

Commenting on VIVA's sponsorship of the Bahrain Marathon Relay, Ulaiyan Al Wetaid, VIVA Bahrain CEO said, "This is our first sponsorship of the Bahrain Marathon Relay and we are pleased to support an event that promotes a healthy and active lifestyle in the community. We are delighted that this year's event will be flagged-off from the VIVA Karting Track."

"We have also committed to the event by being actively involved through our two VIVA teams, one which involves our staff and the other a charitable society, both of which will have the opportunity to participate and represent VIVA in a fun, sporting activity," Mr. Al Wetaid added.

Each of the 150 teams will comprise a 16-member squad tasked with completing the 48km race, which will be run over 16 legs of approximately three kilometers each. The event which helped raise BD20,000 for local charitable organizations last year, will also witness national and international runners from GCC and across the world taking part in the marathon relay.

Lawrence Uhl, Bahrain Marathon Relay Chairman said, "We are delighted to receive support from VIVA Bahrain for this exciting event that draws participation from thousands of people across Bahrain. Every year, we strive to elevate the event with greater participation of companies and teams to raise significant funds for various charitable causes. This year, participants and team supporters will experience a new sporting venue for the first stage of the race, the VIVA Karting Track."

The Bahrain Marathon Relay 2012 will commence from the VIVA Karting Track and conclude at the main paddock area of the Bahrain International Circuit.