Tens of thousands of runners from Israel and around the world are set to participate in the 14th International Jerusalem “Winner” Marathon on Friday. This year’s event will honor Israel Defense Forces soldiers and emergency responders for their contributions during the Iron Swords War.
During a launch event held at the Tower of David Museum in the Old City of Jerusalem on Thursday, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion called the race a “powerful symbol of resilience and the victory of life and freedom.
“In these challenging times, we choose life—and we choose to run,” he stated, adding: “Many runners are participating with a cause close to their hearts, in solidarity with the hostages and bereaved families.”
“I will proudly join the 5K race alongside Karina Ariev, who survived 477 days in Hamas captivity—her courage inspires us all,” said Lion.
Among this year’s standout participants was Yoel Levy, a U.K.-based fitness coach who will run the full marathon dressed as Batman in memory of the Bibas children, who were taken hostage by Hamas terrorists during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack and murdered in captivity.
Levy is using the event to raise awareness for Shalva, an Israeli NGO that provides therapy, educational frameworks, social activities, employment training and more for thousands with disabilities and their families.
Another notable participant was Jerusalem native Yaakov Zerem, 84, a veteran of previous marathons, who is set to run the 10 kilometer (6.2 mile) race, despite recovering from a serious injury.
The race will take runners past the Israeli capital’s top landmarks, including the Israel Museum, the Supreme Court and the Old City.
The Jerusalem Marathon features six categories, from the full marathon (26.2 miles) to a community race (800 meters), ensuring accessibility for athletes of all levels.
The event is organized by the Jerusalem Municipality in collaboration with national and local organizations. Sponsors include sports brand Saucony, which produced an official Jerusalem marathon shoe, and Toto Winner, the main financial supporter.
With international media and influencers in attendance, the marathon also seeks to highlight the Jewish state’s blooming tourism sector, as visitors explore the holy city, as well as Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea.