The alarm rings. It’s 4am.

With shoes laced up and gear on, members of R7 Run Club step out onto the waking street as the sun begins to rise, energised and ready for their daily run. Support, skill improvement, forging meaningful connections, and deepening their understanding of their city are just some of the reasons why these runners start their day before most of us.

This month, however, the runners of R7 – united by their love for running and country – are taking their sense of belonging and patriotism to another level, celebrating Saudi National Day the best way they know how. Slipping into their favourite gear and vibrantly coloured trainers reflecting their spirit, they are running to celebrate the nation.

Founded in 2018, R7 is a community that embraces beginners and experienced runners in a caring and supportive environment. This diverse group brings together individuals of different ages, abilities, and backgrounds from all around the world, promoting mutual understanding and camaraderie. As the club expanded, yearly events were introduced to make it more engaging, heartening, and fun, including of course, the special Saudi National Day Run.

“It started from the simple concept that when you love something you will use it in everything that matters to you,” Ouhoud Kaddour, management team member and part-time volunteer, says. “The National Day celebration takes many shapes, and the club members always make running part of any event, as they believe this could be the most valuable gift to be shared with their country.”

Kicking off with 15 people, the National Day Run has grown to attract 150 enthusiasts. Talking about how they prepare for the run and what inspires them to participate every year, Ouhoud says: “We are motivated by several factors. Firstly, by our love of running. We enjoy the challenge and feel a sense of accomplishment when we finish. Secondly, we are motivated by our patriotism. We are proud to be part of the rich Saudi culture, and we want to celebrate the country's legacy. Thirdly, there’s the sense of community that we feel at these runs. We enjoy being part of a group of people who are all working towards a common goal.”

One year, at 3am, R7 members celebrated the 89th National Day by running a marathon in Riyadh. International participants showed up, highlighting the unifying element the club offers the country and the running community. Ouhoud says it would have been impossible without lots of shared planning effort and the support teams.

“Running is what we breathe. It makes us feel free, alive, happy, strong, active, and healthy. It’s a way to connect with nature and with one’s inner self,” Ouhoud says. “Incorporating running on National Day has increased our connection to the Kingdom and its culture, it has made us closer to each other, and opened our beautiful community to a diverse group of people.”

She adds the yearly run has become the symbol of the Kingdom’s youth and their deep love and connection with their country. “Within R7, we share our joy with a run,” she concludes.

R7 has created a special way for people to gather every morning and evening. They put in countless hours of training and show a firm dedication, motivating each other to be a part of something bigger. Participants push each other’s limits and celebrate victories, rather than compete. The crowd cheers those approaching the finish line, helping to fuel them with determination. It’s a club full of family and friends, whose relationships have transcended to true companionships and even business ventures.

When the sun sets on Saudi National Day, members of R7 will not only celebrate their achievements as runners but also embrace the true spirit of unity and patriotism. For them, running is more than a physical activity; it's a way of connecting with the country and with each other – a journey of love, pride, and lasting friendships.

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