Pinoy wins Tel Aviv marathon video challenge

MANILA, Philippines — Jervis John Salvador from Manila was declared winner of the Tel Aviv Samsung Marathon 2021 challenge.

Runners worldwide were encouraged to submit videos and photos of their participation in the digital marathon. More than 20,000 runners from 33 countries participated in the innovative and digital marathon, an annual event hosted by Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality and sponsored by the Israel Ministry of Tourism.

Salvador will receive two flight tickets and free entry to the Tel Aviv Samsung Marathon 2022. A further nine runners-up are eligible for free entry to the marathon.

“We are delighted to announce that a Filipino won the Feet Abroad, Heart in Tel Aviv challenge among all the participants around the world. We hope to welcome Filipinos soon in Israel but in the meantime let us all be safe and healthy,” said Sammy Yahia, director for India and Philippines, Israel Ministry of Tourism.

Breaking down borders and time zones to overcome challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the digital edition of the Tel Aviv marathon witnessed running enthusiasts rally together from countries including Israel, the UAE, the United States, United Kingdom, Russia, Netherlands, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, Italy and the Philippines.

“Joining the marathon competition by Tel Aviv and the Ministry of Tourism of Israel is an experience I would treasure for life. It’s also an honor for me to have represented the Philippines,” Salvador said. “It’s impressive for the Israelis to come up with a unique marathon competition that, despite banned air travels, lockdowns and a dreaded pandemic, we showed to the world that we can still be together, united with meaningful purpose. I’m excited and look forward to join the many runners all over the world in Tel Aviv in next year’s marathon.”

Preparations are already underway for next year’s marathon, taking place on Feb. 25.