MANAMA: GFH Bank celebrated the success of “GFH XLR8 Night Run 2026”, held at Janat Dilmun Waterpark, in partnership with the Bahrain Association of Banks (BAB), with broad participation from nearly 1,000 male and female runners of various nationalities.

With the attendance and participation of Hisham Ahmed Alrayes, CEO and Board Member of GFH Bank, the event was also attended by Yaser Alsharifi, Chairman of BAB, and Zeeba Askar, Chief Executive Officer of the Association. Alrayes honoured them in recognition of the BAB’s active role in supporting the success of the race and strengthening purposeful institutional partnerships.

The race was organised by XLR8, GFH Bank’s sports platform, in a distinctive sporting and entertainment atmosphere that brought together participants and spectators as part of a vibrant night event full of energy and excitement. The Expo Village also featured several accompanying experiences, including Arabic hospitality, refreshments and snacks, contributing to an integrated experience for participants and visitors.

“We are pleased with the success achieved by the XLR8 Night Run 2026, and with the broad participation that reflected the importance of sporting events as a key platform for strengthening community engagement and encouraging healthy and active lifestyles in the Kingdom of Bahrain,” Hisham Ahmed Alrayes, CEO and Board Member of GFH Bank, said.

“We extend our sincere thanks and appreciation to BAB, represented by Mr Yaser Alsharifi and Ms Zeeba Askar, for its active role and valuable partnership in making this event a success. We also express our appreciation to all partners, organisers and supporting entities, particularly Janat Dilmun Waterpark and Areen, whose contributions helped deliver this race in such a distinguished manner. We reaffirm GFH Bank’s pride in continuing to support sporting initiatives that enhance the private sector’s community presence and support quality of life in the Kingdom.”

XLR8 is a sports platform launched by GFH Bank to support and develop sporting initiatives and events in the Kingdom of Bahrain, whether through collaboration with partners or by creating new events that contribute to strengthening the Kingdom’s position on the sporting scene and encouraging members of the community to practice sport as an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

“The organisation of GFH XLR8 Night Run 2026 reflects GFH’s continued commitment to supporting distinctive community and sporting initiatives and strengthening partnerships with national institutions, contributing to enriching Bahrain’s sporting landscape and creating innovative events that combine positive competition, community engagement and an integrated entertainment experience.”