Bahrain's Attiya receives royal praise for breaking marathon world record

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, yesterday congratulated Second-Lieutenant Abdulla Al Sayed Atiyya, from the Royal Guard at the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), following his success in breaking the world record at the ADNOC Abu Dhabi Marathon, and entering the Guinness Book of World Records. Atiyya finished the race in three hours, 40 minutes and seven seconds, breaking the world record of three hours, 49 minutes and 21 seconds, held by a British athlete since 2009.

The exploit of Atiyya, who graduated from the UK-based Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, is a source of pride and inspiration for Bahraini youth, as he ran the entire marathon in full military uniform and was recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records for that unique achievement.

HM the King and HRH Prince Salman affirmed that Atiyya’s accomplishment is a catalyst for Bahraini athletes to continue earning the country more achievements, wishing him further success in the coming competitions.

Atiyya extended deepest thanks and gratitude to HM the King and HRH Prince Salman for their unwavering care for the citizens and residents.

He paid tribute to National Security Advisor and Royal Guard Commander, Major-General HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, for his constant support, leading to achieving positive results for the kingdom at various external competitions.