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23rd Beirut Marathon held as first major post-war sports event
More than 1,850 runners participated in the 23rd Beirut Marathon, held in Lebanon after the war.
The 23rd Beirut Marathon, the first major sports event held after the war, took place today in the Lebanese capital Beirut. More than 1,850 runners from across the country participated, turning the marathon into a platform for messages of unity, recovery and resilience beyond sport.
Lebanese Minister of Social Affairs Haneen Al-Sayed said the marathon is one of the country's most important annual events, adding, "Its true value lies in its power to bring together Lebanese from different regions and sects around a common goal, away from divisions."
Minister Al-Sayed said she had witnessed the destruction caused by the war in the southern cities of Nabatieh and Tyre the day before. She stressed that such events give Lebanese the strength to carry on and show that human bonds are stronger than the scars of war. She added that sport is a fundamental factor in strengthening mental and physical health.
Pointing out that the marathon is the first major running event after the war, the minister said the government supports all initiatives that unite Lebanese and boost their determination. Noting that more than a thousand young people took part, she said the solidarity of the youth is a fundamental pillar for such events to continue for years to come.
One of the organizers said that Beirut, which has been weeping for months and struggling with security, economic crises and emigration for years, has once again opened its arms to its children from different regions. He said each runner carries a cause representing love for the city, the homeland and the future.
Stressing that the numbers worn by participants are not just a competition element but signify an ambassadorship of love and peace, the organizer said every step taken means Beirut's return to health. He added that this message has been carried since the marathon's inception in 2003 and that sport is the most important tool for bringing people together.
The presence of runners from southern Lebanon was one of the marathon's most striking sights. One participant said that the people of the south, whose homes were destroyed and who suffered loss of life, are still clinging to the will to live, and they sent the message, "Lebanese desire life, not death."
Another participant said that the difficult post-war conditions make such events even more important, offering people a chance to confront their psychological problems. He said each runner is trying to overcome not only the 10-kilometer course but also the troubles within and the scars of war.
The arts community also took part in the marathon. One artist said the marathon's core message is that Lebanese are still alive and holding on to life no matter the difficulties. He stressed that many artists and musicians accompanied the runners, and all segments of society came together to declare their commitment to life.
Young participants said sports events have become a way to bring Lebanese back together after the war. They said sport gives society a chance to forget some of the pain and build a healthier generation, and that a divided society cannot stand up.
Throughout the marathon, the streets of Beirut turned into a space carrying messages of healing and unity. Lebanon is trying to revive its tourism and economic activities, proving that life can return even after the heaviest wars.
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