- April 6, 2025
- 10:15 pm
- Israel
The winner of the 14th Jerusalem Marathon Winner was 39-year-old Bohdan Simanovych from Ukraine, who finished with a time of 2:22:47.
By the way, on May 7, 2023, Bohdan Simanovych became the winner of the Baku Marathon, which brought his name to the international stage.
The first place among women was taken by Salgong Pauline Gepkirui, 37 years old from Kenya, with a time of 2:51:58.
NAnews presents a detailed overview of the 2025 Jerusalem Marathon, which became an important event not only for sports enthusiasts but also for those who value courage, determination, and the memory of heroes.
The Marathon with Deep Meaning
The Jerusalem Marathon, held on April 4, 2025, has already become a tradition, and its significance this year was particularly great. Under the motto “Am Israel Runs,” the marathon was dedicated to the memory of Israel’s heroes, including soldiers and rescuers. The marathon was opened by Karina Ariev, released from Hamas captivity, who ran with Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion and more than 40,000 participants.
Marathon Winners
- Bohdan Simanovych from Ukraine became the winner among men with a time of 2:22:47.
- Salgong Pauline Gepkirui from Kenya won among women with a time of 2:51:58.
This event was not just a sporting achievement, but also a platform for expressing solidarity with the victims of terrorism and everyone who has endured the tragedies of recent years.
Symbolism and Key Moments
The marathon featured not only athletes but also representatives of various charitable organizations who used the event to raise funds and draw attention to important social issues. Among them was the Shalva Team, which supports children with disabilities, as well as other organizations fighting for the rights of those affected by terrorism.
This year, the marathon was held for the fourteenth time. Participants not only covered a physical distance but also traveled through history — through the streets of Jerusalem, which is a symbol for all Jews around the world.
All-time record: about 40,000 people, including about 15,000 soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces in reserve and on permanent duty, security and rescue personnel, and about 1,800 runners from abroad, ran along an exciting route passing by the Knesset, the Old City walls, Sultan’s Pool, Mishkenot Sha’ananim, Mount Zion, the German Colony, Rehavia, the Armon Hanatziv promenade, the Arsenal Hill, Zacher Park, Mount Scopus, the Mount of Olives, and other locations.
Details and Statistics
- Marathon participants: 40,000+ people.
- Countries of participants: more than 50 countries around the world.
- Prize money for winners: $3750 for first place, $2500 for second, and $1250 for third.
The Marathon as a Symbol of Solidarity
The marathon became not only a sports event but also a way to declare the unity of the people of Israel in the face of global challenges. Many participants ran for specific causes, supporting charitable organizations and families affected by terrorism.
Special attention was given to the families of terrorism victims who participated in the marathon in memory of their loved ones. A role model was Eitan Ashman, who participated in the marathon despite speech difficulties following a stroke, in order to support people with disabilities and soldiers with injuries.
The Marathon as Part of Jerusalem’s History
The marathon in Jerusalem is not just a sports event but also a part of history. Since its first edition in 2011, the marathon has become a symbol of resistance and strength of spirit. It has passed through places filled with the spirit of overcoming and unity.
The 2025 Jerusalem Marathon once again proved that sport can unite people with different stories and life paths. This year, marathon participants demonstrated how sport can be a powerful tool for recovery and healing.
Conclusion
The 2025 Jerusalem Marathon became a vivid example of how sport and charity can intertwine, creating powerful symbols of solidarity and memory. It drew attention not only to the achievements of athletes but also to those who are fighting for important social and human values. This marathon, without a doubt, became an important step towards the unification of Israel and Ukraine, peoples who are going through difficult times together but continue to move forward.
