The Dubai Run witnessed an impressive turnout of 226,000 participants, transforming into a vibrant hub for various reunions, marking a celebration of connections among runners.
Astronaut Reunion: Expedition 69 Crew
Emirati astronaut Dr. Sultan Alneyadi, joined by fellow astronaut Hazza AlMansouri, participated in the event, reuniting with his fellow Expedition 69 crew members from the historic mission to the International Space Station (ISS).
International Space Connection: Dubai Run
The reunion included American astronauts Stephen Bowen, Warren Hoburg, and Francisco Rubio, along with Russian cosmonauts Sergey Prokopev, Dimitrii Petelin, and Andrei Fediaev. Sergey Prokopev, a member of Expedition 68, served as the ISS commander during AlNeyadi’s landing.
Astronauts in High Spirits
Dressed in black t-shirts adorned with the Expedition 69 logo and their names, the astronauts exuded relaxation and cheerfulness as they awaited the commencement of the run. AlNeyadi shared a video of the group on social media in anticipation of the event.
Running Alongside Royalty: Dubai Run
Running among the first group alongside Dubai Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the astronauts radiated joy as they posed for selfies and videos.
Symbolic Gesture: DFC Flag Presentation
Before the run, AlNeyadi presented the Dubai Fitness Challenge (DFC) flag to Sheikh Hamdan, expressing appreciation for his commitment to the well-being and happiness of the Dubai community by promoting sports.
ISS Memorabilia: Flag’s Journey to Space
Sultan AlNeyadi had carried the flag during his historic six-month mission aboard the ISS, marking the longest voyage by an Arab astronaut. This act underscored the significance of daily exercise and an active lifestyle in the UAE.
Social Media Announcement
Sharing the exchange on the social media platform X, AlNeyadi wrote, “During the mission, I talked with my Expedition 69 crewmates about my country, and now, we are all here together in the UAE. We participated in the Dubai Run and presented the flag of the Dubai Fitness Challenge, that I carried to the ISS, to @HamdanMohammed.”
Pre-Run Gathering at the Museum of the Future
Earlier in the day, the astronauts convened at the Museum of the Future (MOTF), enjoying coffee and exchanging pleasantries with senior officials. They also posed with the flag, which they later handed over to Sheikh Hamdan.
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