The sun was shining for the 4th International Jerusalem Marathon,
as 26,000 runners raced through the Jerusalem, Israel streets,
and the winner came in with a record-breaking time.
Streets were closed,
so everyone had to walk to get to check in and the starting line.
Once a year the graffiti is white-washed away and
a new banner is hung near the full marathon finish line.
Besides the full and half marathons there are other popular races.
Thousands lined up at the starting line for the 10 kilometer run.
The young and not so young, most dressed in colorful shirts,
and their enthusiasm off the start was contagious.
Entertainers on stilts were dressed in flag-colored costumes,
near a special course for shorter races for the young and disabled.
Supporters lined the streets watching and waiting.
Along the routes were
water stations.
It was hard to get through the crowd in Gan Sacher, Sacher Park
at the start of the 10 K race.
With so many events running at once, it was hard to find family members,
but we did see the winner of the women’s full marathon.
Over 50 countries were represented, and many religions,
but we only saw one runner from Brazil kiss the finish line.
Separate awards for Israeli winners were presented for best times.
Loud music pumped through the park, which could be heard kilometers away.
The runners at the end of their races and arriving for medals,
were separated by fences from the crowds of spectators.
But some proud grandmothers knew how to get around barriers for a special hug.
And then there was the walk home.
The sun was hot.
Some runners were still approaching the finish line,
even as the streets were opened to traffic at one o’clock.
Thousands of shekels were raised for charity.
Everyone who participated was a winner.
Many have been inspired to try next year,
to enter or to train for a longer race.
The Real Jerusalem Streets Facebook
Jerusalem Marathon album has many more photos HERE.
I wonder how many faces you will recognize?
Remember last year? If not see:
Did you Hear About Jerusalem Marathon 2013?
