The recent NBK Run 2025 in Kuwait transcended the typical competitive spirit, becoming a powerful demonstration of human connection and inclusivity. More than just a race, the event witnessed incredible displays of determination, most notably from Hungarian runner Pal Sebestyen and his visually and hearing-impaired friend, Mohamed. Their partnership highlighted the event’s commitment to accessibility and inspired participants and spectators alike, proving that limitations are often self-imposed. This story exemplifies the true spirit of the Kuwait NBK Run, and the power of sport to unite.
A Unique Partnership at the Kuwait NBK Run
The heart of this inspiring story lies in the bond between Pal Sebestyen, affectionately known as the “barefoot guy” for his running style, and Mohamed. Sebestyen deliberately chose to run alongside Mohamed, acting as his guide for the entire 2.5-kilometer course. Mohamed, who has nearly total visual impairment and complete hearing loss, was participating in his first official race, a significant milestone made possible by Sebestyen’s selfless dedication.
Their connection wasn’t spontaneous. It blossomed during training for a Paralympic run, where Sebestyen was assigned to guide Mohamed. “Mohamed was paired with me, where I will be his guide throughout the race,” Sebestyen explained. He added that despite only having one dedicated training session together, Mohamed’s natural athleticism was immediately apparent. “He’s fast. We’re aiming to finish between 15 and 20 minutes.”
Running in Solidarity and Breaking Barriers
Sebestyen’s decision to run barefoot wasn’t merely a personal preference; it was a deliberate act of solidarity with the disabled community. He wanted to symbolically share in the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities, emphasizing a shared experience of pushing boundaries.
The NBK Run 2025 itself featured a diverse range of athletes with disabilities, including wheelchair users, individuals with visual impairments, and those with hearing loss. This inclusivity is a key aspect of the event, fostering a welcoming environment for all levels of ability. The presence of these athletes challenged perceptions and demonstrated the incredible potential within everyone.
Mohamed’s First Race Experience
For Mohamed, the race was a completely new experience. Communicating through touch with his brother, he expressed the profound meaning the event held for him. Sports have always been a vital part of his life, and he consistently maintained an active lifestyle despite his challenges.
“This was his first time participating in such an event,” Sebestyen noted. “The experience was new to him but also very meaningful.” Mohamed’s reliance on Sebestyen was absolute, trusting his guide implicitly to navigate the course and signal the finish. “He can keep running without stopping. He doesn’t know when the race ends. He relies on me completely. I’ve never experienced anything like this with any athlete before,” Sebestyen shared.
A Moment of Faith and Unwavering Determination
A particularly moving moment occurred immediately after the race. Mohamed, guided by an internal sense of timing, expressed his desire to pray. Remarkably, despite his disabilities, he independently adjusted his prayer rug to face Makkah just as the call to prayer began.
Sebestyen was deeply affected by this display of faith and orientation. “He felt the time and the direction. North, south, east, west. It was unbelievable and deeply moving,” he commented. This incident underscored Mohamed’s inner strength and unwavering connection to his beliefs. It also highlighted the power of the human spirit to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.
Beyond the Finish Line: A Marathon Goal
Sebestyen’s commitment to Mohamed extends far beyond the 2.5-kilometer run. He has set an ambitious long-term goal: to prepare Mohamed for a full 42-kilometer marathon by the end of 2026, in collaboration with the event organizers. This undertaking will require dedicated training and a continued strengthening of their partnership.
This ambitious plan speaks to the transformative power of sport and the potential for individuals with disabilities to achieve extraordinary feats. Sebestyen believes that Mohamed’s dedication and resilience serve as a powerful inspiration to others. He emphasized this point by completing an additional five-kilometer solo run after the guided race, further demonstrating his support for all participants.
Inspiring a Wider Audience: A Message of Empowerment
Sebestyen’s message to the public was clear and compelling: “If athletes with disabilities can prepare and compete with such determination, there are no excuses for others not to challenge themselves. If these guys are ready, you should be ready too.” This sentiment encapsulates the spirit of the Kuwait running event and its ability to inspire a broader audience.
Mohamed, expressing his gratitude through his brother, echoed this sentiment, describing the experience as both new and incredibly encouraging. The NBK Run provided a platform for him to showcase his athleticism and resilience, proving that disability is not a barrier to participation and achievement. The event’s success in fostering inclusivity and celebrating human potential is a testament to its organizers and the inspiring athletes who took part.
The story of Pal Sebestyen and Mohamed is a powerful reminder that true victory lies not just in crossing the finish line, but in the connections we forge and the barriers we break along the way. It’s a story that will undoubtedly resonate with participants and spectators for years to come, solidifying the Kuwait NBK Run as more than just a race – it’s a celebration of the human spirit.
