Egypt and the United States recently collaborated through the U.S. Department of State's Sports Envoy program, focusing on running and promoting health and fitness. Key figures from the Boston Athletic Association, including CEO Tom Grilk, along with former Boston Marathon champions Greg Meyer and Lisa Rainsberger, participated in activities hosted by the U.S. Embassy Cairo and U.S. Consulate General Alexandria from October 22 to 27.
The envoys provided guidance to Alex Runners for their second annual half marathon on October 26. Grilk offered insights into race operations, while Rainsberger and Meyer focused on marketing strategies and partnerships with local businesses.
The half marathon event took place along the Mediterranean Sea, starting at the Four Seasons Hotel Alexandria and ending at the Citadel of Qaitbay. It attracted over 1,000 participants competing in various categories. U.S. Consul General Nancy Corbett attended the awards ceremony where Mostafa Shaghmim won the men's 21k race with a time of 1:11:06, and Nesma Ammar secured victory in the women's category with a time of 1:29:41.
In addition to advising local runners, Grilk, Rainsberger, and Meyer conducted training sessions with Syrian refugees from the Syrian Sports Academy and students from Schutz American School. Meyer emphasized that sports highlight commonalities across different races, religions, or nationalities.
The group also organized a 4k Fun Run at the Great Pyramids of Giza with Cairo Runners. The unique setting left a lasting impression on all participants.
Discussions between envoys and local running groups aimed at establishing Egypt as a key destination for professional runners were also held. They intend to boost sports tourism while enhancing awareness about health benefits associated with running.
Since its inception in cooperation with entities like the U.S. Olympic Committee in 2005, more than 340 athletes have participated in Sports Envoy programs across over 80 countries.