Competition Between Dubai Corporates Is On The Rise Ahead Of The Bloomberg Square Mile Relay

25 January 2017 (Dubai, UAE): As preparations for the first race of the 2017 Bloomberg Square Mile Relay global series continue, some of Dubai’s biggest businesses are already getting ready to battle it out for the coveted title of ‘fastest firm in the city’.

Up to 100 companies from across Dubai, including Standard Chartered Bank, National Bank of Fujairah, DGCX, Dubai Airports, ICBC and MasterCard, will take on the new 1.6km route at Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) - the official venue partner of the event - on Wednesday, 8 February.

The unique one-mile (1.6km) course has been completely revamped and will see each participant, from teams of 10 runners, sprinting through the arch of the iconic Gate Building, up and down over 100 steps, before handing the baton to their teammate.

The team of 10 runners achieving the fastest cumulative time for 10 one-mile (1.6km) laps of this energising course will be crowned champions. Competition is set to be fierce on the day with a number of newcomers on the start line eager to take the title this year.

Nick Keller, Managing Director of the event organiser Square Mile Sport, said: “It’s great to be back in Dubai for the second consecutive year as we look to continuously strive for new ways to expand and keep the event relevant within each of the seven countries that host it. There was such a fantastic atmosphere at last year’s event so we are looking forward to welcoming teams who are coming out of the office to enjoy this exciting relay as part of a fun team bonding activity.”

Raja Al Mazrouei, Senior Vice President - Marketing & Corporate Communications at DIFC Authority, commented: “Interest in the second Bloomberg Square Mile Relay has been strong and we’ve already seen a great competitive streak in the companies in and around DIFC. The yearly event is a fantastic opportunity to bring together the community in a setting that truly highlights DIFC’s offering, not just as a world-class financial centre, but as one of the region’s leading business and lifestyle destinations. We are looking forward to welcoming the teams and supporters to DIFC very soon.”

Registration for one team of 10 runners includes race fees, event t-shirt, admission to the after-party and exclusive hospitality for all runners after the race including a main meal, dessert and drinks. Spectators are also welcome to cheer on their colleagues, families and friends and enjoy the atmosphere in the race village at DIFC.

Bloomberg has been the headline sponsor of the global relay series since its inception in 2007, and this year in Dubai is joined by venue partner for the second time DIFC, wellness partner Valiant Clinic, fitness partner Fitness First, media partners Elevision and Bloomberg Businessweek, radio partner Dubai Eye 103.8, apparel supplier Compressport, and shoe partner On Running.

For further information on the Bloomberg Square Mile Relay or to enter a team please visit the website at www.squaremilerelay.com/dubai