Released hostage Karina Ariev on Friday morning launched the 14th International Jerusalem 'Winner' Marathon 5km race, alongside Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion. At 7:00 AM, the first 5Km race was launched, followed by the second (wave) race at 7:15 AM. Thousands of runners are participating in these events. The races were kicked off by Karina Ariev, who was released from Hamas captivity in Gaza after more than 500 days. In her remarks to the runners before the start, she said: "As you run, feel the freedom, the comforting embrace of your surroundings. Dedicate this run to the memory of our heroes who sacrificed their lives so that we could stand here today, to the hostages — may they return safely and soon, to ourselves, and to the entire people of Israel." Lion joined Ariev at the first launch, where he also ran in the race. Also present at the starting ceremony were Deputy Mayor and Head of the Sports Division Yossi Havilio, CEO of Jerusalem's Municipality Itzik Larry, Deputy Director General and Director of the Culture, Society, and Sports Administration at the Jerusalem Municipality Ariella Rajuan, and Director of the Department of Released Soldiers at the Ministry of Defense Eyal Hans. Related articles: Record-setting race ends, winners announced 30,000 runners take part in 12th annual Jerusalem Marathon From war zone in Ukraine to finish line in Jerusalem Jerusalem half-marathon champion: Haredi athlete Beatie Deutsch At 8:00 AM, the Community Race – a special 800-meter social awareness run – was launched from the Clock Junction. Thousands of runners are expected to participate, raising awareness for social causes. This race was launched by Amal Asad, CEO and founder of the Path of Sons Project, and Kalman Samuels, President of the Shalva organization. Dozens of social organizations are taking part in the Community Race, including the IDF Disabled Veterans Organization, Bnei Akiva World Movement, Israel Cancer Association, Shalva, Keren-Or, United Hatzalah of Israel, Kav L’Noar, Emunah, The Lone Soldier Center, One Family, Beit Daniella, Gav Lalohem, the Michael Levin Base, the Jewish Institute for the Blind, the Koby Mandell Foundation, the Coalition of Religious Organizations for Mental Health, and many more.
