Burjuman Pink Walkathon puts 15,000 on parade in Dubai

Many of those who completed the 2km march had personal experiences that led them to raise awareness of the second-biggest killer of women in the UAE.

A total of 15,000 people marched 2km at Zabeel Park on Friday to raise awareness of breast cancer. Courtesy of Burjuman Pink Walkathon
Powered by automated translation

DUBAI // More than 15,000 people, many of whom have been affected by breast cancer, have taken part in a walk to raise awareness about the disease.

Zabeel Park was turned into a sea of pink as people of all ages and backgrounds took part in the 10th annual Burjuman Pink Walkathon on Friday morning.

“The Burjuman Pink Walkathon is a very personal event for many of the participants, who include survivors and their families,” said Imad Abdul Malak, spokesman for the Burjuman Safe and Sound Campaign, which organised the event.

“This time, too, the participants helped to make a difference as the funds raised through their registration fees go into the campaign’s outreach and patient care.”

The event began at 8.30am, with people warming up to tunes played by local radio show hosts DJ Kris Fade and Preeti Malik.

The traditional release of thousands of pink balloons marked the start of the walk, which was led by a group of breast cancer survivors, as they set off on the 2-kilometre route around the park.

The walkers were accompanied by a group of drummers, who played an uplifting beat throughout as roaming entertainers also performed.

Afterwards, some of those who completed the walk took to social media.

“Walked for mummy Corie today,” tweeted Francesca Monfero.

“It was nice to wake up early in the morning for this :) a good cause,” said Willa_V.

Kundan Patel tweeted: “Doing our bit towards the fight against breast cancer.”

“This is pink madness at its best! Doing the Burjuman Breast Walkathon … so much pink fun,” added Irene Feeney.

After the walk, participants moved to The Arena at Zabeel Park for entertainment provided by a live band and performances from a dance troupe.

Youngsters were treated to face painting, arts and crafts, bouncy castles and a variety of games.

There was also a pink bazaar community market, where people could hunt for bargains among the bric-a-brac, book sales and a host of food stalls.

nhanif@thenational.ae