The Ein Gedi International Marathon is leaving the starting line on February 18 2011, for the 28th time, and this year it offers a surprising innovation. For the first time, it will include a special race in which participants will aim to cover not only distance but also, and more importantly, height.
The race to the summit of Masada will start at the Ein Gedi baths on the 19th and head for the summit of Masada, up the Snake Trail, bringing together one of the most important symbols of willpower and persistence, the last stronghold of the Zealots during the Great Revolt against the Romans, and the fighting spirit and physical capabilities possessed by marathon runners.
In this, the first Masada Race, 300 runners will be running side by side, including senior business executives, diplomats and Members of Knesset, up the 2.5 km climb along grueling dirt paths, rocky roads and 750 steep stone steps to the top, a solitary stone cliff at the eastern edge of the Judean Desert overseeing the Dead Sea.
The Ein Gedi Marathon and the Masada Race constitute a wonderful opportunity for athletes and nature lovers to run and walk among the natural wonders, alongside the enchanted banks of the Dead Sea, the lowest place on earth, nestled between the breathtaking mountains of the Judean and Moab deserts.
An event will be held for the race participants and their families on Saturday.
To sign up and for further details – see the race site
