Jerusalem’s 15th International Winner Marathon was held Friday under the theme “Am Yisrael Runs,” drawing tens of thousands of participants in a display of resilience, solidarity and a return to routine amid a difficult national period.
Runners moved through Jerusalem along a course that passed some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Knesset, the walls of the Old City, Sultan’s Pool, Mishkenot Sha’ananim, Mount Zion, the German Colony, Rehavia, the Armon Hanatziv Promenade and Sacher Park.
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion started the half-marathon, while returned hostage Rom Braslavski launched the 10-kilometer race.
The event featured five race categories: a half-marathon, a 10-kilometer race, a 5-kilometer race, a 1.7-kilometer family race and a special 800-meter community race.
Held against what organizers described as a complex security situation and ongoing operational demands, and in heavy heat, the marathon went ahead with thousands of runners taking part side by side. Organizers said the turnout reflected a sense of endurance and unity, with participants choosing to press ahead despite the challenges.
“The International Jerusalem Winner Marathon is much more than a sporting event,” Lion said. “It is a reflection of determination, strength and unity. This year, especially during these challenging times, the participation of thousands of runners from around the world in a shared run through the streets of Jerusalem sends a powerful message of resilience, hope and the choice to keep living. Jerusalem is proud to host this international event, reminding us all of the power we have when we come together.”
Meir Bardugo, CEO of the TOTO Winner Organization, the Israel Sports Betting Board, thanked the thousands who took part and said organizing this year’s event under the circumstances had been especially difficult.
“Organizing this year’s event, under such difficult circumstances, was especially challenging and complicated,” Bardugo said. He thanked the Jerusalem Municipality and hundreds of production staff members whose “flexibility and determination” in recent weeks made the race possible. He said participants were able to enjoy a unique sporting experience and expressed confidence that the event would return next year for its 16th edition.
The marathon was organized by the Jerusalem Municipality in cooperation with the Jerusalem Development Authority, with support from the Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage, the Ministry of Culture and Sports and the Ministry of Tourism. The main sponsor was the TOTO Winner Organization.
Israeli sports company Jinga partnered in the event and produced the official marathon shirt. Azorim, one of the sponsors, also launched a “Pay It Forward” initiative. Other sponsors included Hapoel, Turkish Coffee, Lynk & Co, Eldan, Cinema City, Bezeq Business, Clif energy bars, Moovit and Reidman College.