Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon Returns for its 18th Edition

Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon Returns for its 18th Edition on February 1, 2025

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 20, 2024

The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is set to return for its 18th edition on February 1, 2025. This event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, will take place on Al Marjan Island and feature four different races.

Hosted by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), the marathon is a popular event for both community runners and international elite athletes. The main race is the 21.1km half marathon, but there will also be 10km, 5km, and 2km runs available, catering to athletes of all ages and abilities.

"We are excited to announce the return of one of the most highly anticipated global sporting events in the Nature Emirate for the 18th year. The race never fails to produce world-class champions and we look forward once again to welcoming back an incredible line-up of elite athletes, sporting enthusiasts and tourists from across the globe.”
Raki Phillips, CEO of RAKTDA

Registration is now open, and participants can take advantage of early registration promotions until September 30. The entry fees for early registration are USD 50 (AED 185) for the Half Marathon, USD 30 (AED 110) for the 10km race, USD 20 (AED 74) for the 5km race, and USD 10 (AED 37) for the 2km race.

"With six months to go, we are pleased to be able to launch an early registration promotion for those runners who want to secure their places in the race of their choice. The running community will have over three months to take advantage of the Early Registration Promotion before prices revert on October 1, and we look forward to welcoming early registrations from regular runners as well as from those keen to test themselves for the first time on the fast and flat roads of Al Marjan Island.”
Peter Connerton, Managing Director of Pace Events and Race Director of the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon

In the previous edition held in February 2024, Kenya’s Daniel Mateiko and Ethiopia’s Tsigie Gebreselama claimed the men’s and women’s titles, respectively. Mateiko finished with a time of 58:45, narrowly beating his compatriot John Korir. Gebreselama set a personal best of 65:14, defeating the 2020 champion Ababel Yeshaneh. Tanzania’s Jacklin Sakilu finished third, also achieving a personal best.

The Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon is known for its fast and flat course, making it a favorite among runners aiming to set personal records. The event also holds a high ranking in World Athletics’ Competition Performance Rankings for half marathons.

For more information and to register for the event, visit the official registration page at rakhalfmarathon.com.

About Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA):

Established in May 2011, RAKTDA aims to develop Ras Al Khaimah’s tourism infrastructure and position the Emirate as a top destination for leisure and business travel. The Authority is responsible for licensing, regulating, and monitoring the tourism and hospitality industry in the region, fostering sustainable investment opportunities, and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

Coolberg’s ‘No Rules, Just Cool’ Campaign Speaks Gen Z’s Language

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 18, 2025

Coolberg, India’s leading non-alcoholic beer brand, has just dropped a campaign that’s as fearless and refreshing as its drinks. Titled “No Rules, Just Cool,” the campaign celebrates individuality, quirk, and the spirit of doing your own thing—just the way Gen Z likes it.

In a world shaped by social filters and rulebooks, Coolberg throws the script out the window. The campaign is more than just a marketing push—it’s a mindset. From bold relationship advice to powerful messaging around authenticity, it encourages people to be unapologetically themselves. Because for Coolberg, cool isn’t about fitting in—it’s about standing out.

Rolling out across platforms like Snapchat, Spotify, Meta, and top OTT channels, the campaign connects with young audiences where they are. And the message is clear: “The best rebounds aren’t people. They’re mindset shifts.”

“Coolberg is the ultimate drink for Gen Z as it's fun, inclusive and unique,” says Shubham Shukla, Head – Marketing at Ghodawat Consumer Limited. “With No Rules, Just Cool, we aim to align with Gen Z’s mindset—a generation that thrives on authenticity, individuality, and freedom of expression. We’re not just selling a beverage; we’re building a culture.”

Coolberg’s journey has been nothing short of dynamic. Acquired in 2022 by Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL), a key player in India’s FMCG space, Coolberg quickly scaled up. Today, it's available in over 50,000 retail outlets across 150 cities and exported to 15+ countries. The brand is also served at major fast food chains like KFC, Barbeque Nation, and WoW Momos, and is listed on Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, Flipkart Minutes, and Amazon.

About Ghodawat Consumer Limited (GCL)

GCL, the FMCG arm of Sanjay Ghodawat Group, has been redefining everyday consumption with its wide range of products under the ‘Star’ brand—covering everything from cooking oils and atta to snacks and beverages. Its premium portfolio includes TBH (a real veggie snack brand) and Coolberg.

About Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG)

Founded in 1993, SGG is a diversified conglomerate with interests in aviation, education, retail, energy, and more. With over 10,000 employees and 21,000+ students across institutions, SGG continues to impact lives with its innovation-driven approach and commitment to excellence.

PM Modi Inaugurates India’s First Vertical Lift Sea Bridge in Rameswaram

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 7, 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked a historic moment on the occasion of Ram Navami by inaugurating India’s first vertical lift sea bridge—the new Pamban Bridge—in Rameswaram, Tamil Nadu. The event was accompanied by the launch of the Rameswaram–Tambaram Express, a new train service enhancing connectivity between the temple town and Chennai.

Built at a cost of over ₹550 crore, the 2.08-kilometre-long bridge connects Rameswaram Island to mainland India and features a 72.5-metre vertical lift span that can rise up to 17 metres, allowing ships to pass smoothly without disrupting train movement. Designed by Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL), this modern engineering marvel replaces the iconic British-era Pamban Bridge, which served pilgrims and traders for over a century since 1914.

The new structure incorporates advanced materials like stainless steel reinforcements, high-grade protective coatings, and fully welded joints, making it highly durable and corrosion-resistant. Capable of handling speeds up to 80 kmph, the bridge is designed for a 100-year lifespan and supports dual rail tracks for future traffic needs.

PM Modi also flagged off a Coast Guard ship that sailed beneath the elevated span during the event, showcasing the bridge's sea-lift functionality. Visuals of the first train crossing the newly inaugurated bridge added to the symbolic significance of the day, as the event coincided with the “Surya Tilak” celebration in Ayodhya—an alignment the Prime Minister referred to as a “divine coincidence.”

Notable dignitaries present at the ceremony included Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, Tamil Nadu Governor RN Ravi, and state Finance Minister Thangam Thennarasu. The absence of Chief Minister MK Stalin was noted. PM Modi had just returned from a three-day visit to Sri Lanka and received a warm welcome from local leaders, including Union Minister L Murugan and BJP Tamil Nadu chief K Annamalai.

With improved connectivity and a future-ready design, the new Pamban Bridge is poised to become a key gateway to South India's spiritual tourism circuit, while also strengthening regional infrastructure.

Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari: Society Tea Unveils Power-Packed Ad Film Featuring Riteish Deshmukh

By Nishang Narayan

Published on February 26, 2025

Society Tea, a brand deeply rooted in Maharashtra’s tea culture, has launched its latest ad campaign, ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari’, starring Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh. The film pays homage to the bold and full-bodied essence of kadak chai, a favorite across the state.

The campaign introduces Riteish Deshmukh as Kadak Surve, a fearless cop who embodies the spirit of kadakness. Shot in Marathi and Hindi, the ad film reflects the deep-rooted love for strong, dust tea in Maharashtra, with high-energy storytelling, dynamic visuals, and a compelling narrative.

A Tribute to Maharashtra’s Love for Chai

"Kadak chai is more than just a beverage—it's an emotion," said Karan Shah, Director, Society Tea. "With ‘Kadak Surve – Chai Bhari,’ we wanted to encapsulate the strength and energy that a cup of our dust tea delivers. Riteish Deshmukh brings this vision to life with his dynamic presence, making this campaign truly bhari!"

The power-packed ad film is now live across Meta and YouTube, inviting chai lovers to experience the boldness of Society Tea’s dust tea.

TVC Credits

Welcome to post your talent

A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.