The Jerusalem Winner International Marathon, set to take place on March 16, 2012, is expected to be one of the most eclectic events to have ever taken place in Israel. Among the 15,000 runners participating in the second annual Jerusalem Marathon, there are 1,500 from 40 different countries around the world. The marathon, funded by Israel Hayom, is expecting runners from all ends of the earth, including Japan, Guatemala, Indonesia, Chile, Ireland and even a runner from Turkey. As a runner who has completed five marathons, I can honestly say that running in Jerusalem is the most exciting, said Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat. The marathon has put Jerusalem on the list of the worlds leading cities, contributing to tourism and the economy. It connects the world community to Israel and to Jerusalem. Uri Menachem, director of the Jerusalem Municipal Sports Authority added, The second Jerusalem Winner International Marathon has broken records we have not yet seen in runs and sporting events in Israel, especially with regard to the number of runners arriving from abroad to participate. The marathon will be divided into several events: a full 42.195 kilometer (26.2 miles) marathon, a half marathon, a 10 km (6.2 miles), a 4.2 km (2.6 miles) folk round and a community round of 800 meters (1/2 mile) to advance social causes. The 4.2K folk round is organized by The Israel Cancer Association in conjunction with the Jerusalem Municipality. Participation fees of 60NIS ($16) will all benefit the Cancer Association. The Jerusalem marathon is especially challenging due to all the hills in the city. Indeed, in the bible, Israels capital is known as the city of seven mountains. The marathoners will pass through various historic sites in the city, including the Knesset on Givat Ram and the Old City. Their race will also dip past the Sultans Pool valley, through the German Colony and Rehavia, up to the Tayelet (boardwalk) in Armon Hanatziv, Ammunition Hill, Sacher Park, Mount Scopus, the Mount of Olives and several other sites known and loved by those around the world.
