(2 Dec 2018) LEADIN
Hundreds of Iraqis have taken to the streets of the capital to compete in the Baghdad Marathon for Peace.
The runners aimed to raise awareness against violence and to promote love and peace.
STORYLINE
A klaxon signals the start of the race.
Around 2,000 runners set off from the start line of the Baghdad Marathon for Peace.
The colourful crowd are running a 21 kilometre course along the Tigris river.
The organisers of the marathon say they want to promote peace and understanding while also raising awareness against violence and extremism.
The race began in Abu Nawas street in central Baghdad.
"Our aim is to send a message of peace to all Iraqi youth, a message against violence through sport. This is our main hope and goal," says one runner, Nasha'at al-Mayas.
The organisers say they also want the world to see that Iraqis are committed to peace, non-violence and justice.
Small steps towards a brighter future.
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