American Express supports Bahrain Marathon Relay for sixth consecutive year

In addition, two teams comprised of employees from AEME Bahrain and their regional offices will participate in one of the largest sports and social events in Bahrain.

Premal Patel, Senior Director, Marketing of American Express Middle East and North Africa, presented a cheque for BD4.000 to Peter Wade, Chairman of Bahrain Marathon Relay.

The Bahrain Marathon Relay is held under the patronage of Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa, President of the General Organisation for Youth and Sports (GOYS). Organised by the Bahrain Round Table and GOYS, the 2008 relay will see more than 150 teams running approximately 48 kilometres in total.

"American Express is pleased to be part of such a prestigious sporting event," said Patel. "We commend the Bahrain Marathon Relay for the substantial funds it raises for charitable causes and its continued contributions toward social cohesion. This sponsorship is reflective of our continued commitment to the residents of Bahrain and we pledge our support to such worthy causes."

The annual sporting and fundraising event, which helped raise more than BD25,000 for local charities last year, will see many more international and national athletes representing corporations, hotels, schools, and other organisations. The Bahrain Marathon Relay has raised substantial funds for Bahrain charities since its inception and beneficiaries from the proceeds of the event include Bahrain Mobility International, the Isa Town Charity Fund and the NBB Rehabilitation Home.

Peter Wade, Chairman of the Bahrain Marathon Relay, said:

"We are delighted to have a partner such as American Express who has consistently supported the Bahrain Marathon Relay. At the Bahrain Marathon Relay, our aim is to garner support of benevolent companies such as American Express to make a lasting difference to the Bahraini community. As a long-standing partner of this unique event, American Express' continued support is indicative of their overall commitment to the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain."

The Bahrain Marathon Relay will take place on Friday October 31st with the start and finish lines at the Bahrain International Circuit. Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third placed men's / mixed teams and the first women's team. Every participant of the Bahrain Marathon Relay will receive a commemorative t-shirt and a participant's medal.