Etihad Airways sponsors global charity fundraiser Gobi March China 2009

Major Andy Whiteside and Warrant Officer Mark Lindsay will fly to China via Abu Dhabi on board Etihad Airways and join 159 other competitors to raise money for the Kuwait Association for Care of Children in Hospital (KACCH), and the Bayt Abdullah Children's Hospice (BACCH).

Etihad Airways Kuwait Country Manager Magdi Labib said:

"The participants will be flying to China via Abu Dhabi to partake in this global phenomenon. This participation stems from the ethos of the national airlines of the United Arab Emirates, based on its support of goodwill causes, as well as encouraging excellence."

The Gobi March will cover a distance of 250km, carried out in 6 stages over 7 days. All stages are marathon distances with one long stage being 79km. The race will be concluded at the Tomb of Kashgary after the final 12km leg of the event. Competitors are required to be fully self-supported throughout the event. They must carry all their food, gear and clothing needed to survive while completing the course. Only water and a sleeping space in a tent are provided on a daily basis.

Commenting on his participation in the event, Major Whiteside said: "We are pleased to be taking part in this global charity event. It's not just about the money; it's also about raising the awareness of these charity organizations. The work done by KACCH and BACCH are of paramount significance for suffering children."

In October 2008, Whiteside and Lindsay competed in a 258km race across the Sahara Desert for the sake of adventure and to raise awareness and monetary support for KACCH.

"Etihad's philanthropic philosophy has been the driving force behind this sponsorship. It is always a pleasure for Etihad to participate in such events that are for a worthy cause," concluded Labib.

For more information customers are encouraged to visit the new Etihad office located on the mezzanine floor of Burj Jassim Tower, Al Soor Street, Mirqab.