The race of peace

A sporting event in the principal square of the country and the start of a special marathon were dedicated to the anniversary of signing the political part of Ukraine-EU Association Agreement. A team of 12 has begun a relay that will cover 42 European capitals. “It is a global, civil, and non-political initiative that aims to unite citizens of different countries in the pursuit of stability, peace, and security,” the organizers say.

The team plans to set multiple national and world records, such as the race over the most European countries and the fastest movement across the previously approved route. The runners plan to cover 18,000 kilometers in 84 days. They also plan to pass the letters of gratitude on the ratification of the Association Agreement to the MPs of the countries they will visit. Every team member will run about 20 km daily.

Oleksii Kononenko, one of the twelve team members, noted that “anyone would be able to join the relay at any stage.” The race will finish in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican, where a prayer for peace will be held.

On Saturday, prior to the start of the marathon, a family sporting holiday was celebrated at Maidan Nezalezhnosti: adults and children ran in order to support the initiative and receive positive emotions. There was a race of 2.4 km for adults, and one of 500 m for children younger than 10. All the children received presents, and the adults took part in the lottery. The winners of the adult race were awarded by Ihor Zhdanov, sports and youth minister, who also took part in it. Apart from him, head of EU delegation to Ukraine Jan Tombinski, MP Mykola Tomenko, and a number of Olympic champions also took part in the race.