Two women run unofficially on the sideline of the marathon "I run Iran" pic.twitter.com/MoDcXDCQdG — Bahar Shoghi (@baharshoghi) April 9, 2016

Two women ran in Iran’s first official marathon on Saturday – despite being banned by the authorities.

The race, called ‘I Run Iran’, took in ancient landmarks such as the Gate of All Nations at Persepolis and attracted around 250 runners from 35 different countries, including 12 UK competitors.

Hosting the country’s first big race like this open to foreigners was a really exciting project – but organisers came in for some criticism as only men were allowed to race.

However, it looks like some women weren’t satisfied to wait on the sideline and cheer.


Bahar Shoghi, a reporter based locally, tweeted that she had seen two women unofficially complete the race.

Whole town in the streets chanting for runners. Women were not allowed to run. "I run Iran" pic.twitter.com/nGNFJt5bHS — Bahar Shoghi (@baharshoghi) April 9, 2016

MORE: Footballer forced to have pitch-side haircut because his was considered ‘unIslamic’



Dutch race founder Sebastien Straten told the Telegraph: ‘Iran, as you might know, has its own religious traditions and customs. Local (religious) authorities are not yet acquainted with the concept of public (female) running. So we invite all men to participate and show how sport can unite.’

He said he hoped in future they would be able to get permission for women to take part.

Whole town in the streets chanting for runners. Women were not allowed to run. "I run Iran" pic.twitter.com/nGNFJt5bHS — Bahar Shoghi (@baharshoghi) April 9, 2016

Organisers said: ‘This marathon is about more than running. We invite men, women and children from different cultures and continents to participate. To discover, to enjoy, to eat and to celebrate together.

‘This first marathon of Iran intends to inspire a young Iranian population to run for fun. Most sports in Iran are practiced indoor and street running is not common.’