Beirut Marathon runners set off despite downpour

BEIRUT: Rain fell in waves and thunder cracked as the annual Beirut Marathon got under way early Sunday, with a slightly depressed turnout thanks to the weather.

Those who did show up for the marathon or other races were undeterred, however.

Over 33,000 people registered for the race, but the rain and rivers of water they caused in the streets clearly kept many people away.

Walking under the torrent, student Jihad Jamal said he would be running for his charity in whatever weather. “We are running for a great cause,” Jamal said. “We don’t need to be lazy.”

“It’s beautiful. What makes the marathon so special is that despite whatever political problems over the years, despite the wars, the marathon has never been cancelled,” said event DJ Ahmad Madjam. “The least of our worries is for the rain to stop the marathon.”

Some runners were less enthusiastic about the rainy event and its execution. “It’s so disorganized,” said Joey Rizk. “I came to have fun but it doesn’t feel fun.”