Seaside Marathon Odesa: A Celebration of Strength and Community
The Seaside Marathon Odesa took place, attracting around 600 participants, including veterans of the war. Read more about the event in our report.
This morning, athletes gathered near the Sports Palace for the marathon. At approximately 8 AM, they lined up at the starting line. The race commenced with a special start for individuals with disabilities in wheelchairs.
Alexander, one of the participants, shared his experience of completing a three-kilometer distance around Victory Park.
"Our goal is to show that we, individuals with disabilities, can achieve success and reach our goals. There are no limits for us, even when it is challenging," he stated.
Participants tested their limits on distances of 5 km, 10 km, 21 km, and 42 km. Veterans also took part in a ceremonial walk called "Path of the Veteran" covering 100 meters. Children participated in races of 100 meters, 500 meters, and one kilometer.
Hanna completed 5 km without any preparation and shared her thoughts:
"We faced snow, rain, and we made it to the finish. Honestly, I walked a bit because running five kilometers without training is tough."
This event is held for the second time in Odesa, organizer Olga Volobuyeva explained. This year, it gathered nearly 600 participants from Ukraine and abroad. All proceeds will be dedicated to the development of adaptive sports in the Odesa region.
The marathon route passed through Shevchenko Avenue, Academic Street, Volunteer Street, Champagne Lane, with traffic restrictions in place during the event.
