The only way is down for UK Dead Sea marathon runners
Brits among the thousands competing in the Dead Sea Land Marathon
Ranked among the Most Unique Races in the World, the Dead Sea Land Marathon drew 32 British runners among more than 8,000 participants who descended to the lowest point on Earth to take part in one of global running’s most extraordinary events.
Now in its seventh year, the world’s lowest marathon sold out two months before race day, cementing its reputation as a bucket-list fixture on the international endurance calendar.
More than a race, because it offers a once-a-year opportunity to access terrain normally closed to the public, the runners crossed exclusive gravel dikes stretching 6–8 metres wide, cutting through the Dead Sea itself.
Among the standout participants was Yoel Levy, aka The Jewish Fitness Coach, who ran the marathon for the second time — dressed as Batman in memory of Ariel and Kfir Bibas. “It’s incredible to take part again,” he said. “I’m lucky enough to race all over the world, but the unique landscape of this event and the hugely warm welcome from participants, organisers and spectators makes this one of the absolute highlights of my sporting calendar — a must-do experience for anyone interested in endurance sport.”
The six race distances of the marathon cater to all abilities, from a beginner-friendly 5km to the gruelling 50km ultra-marathon, and also included the half marathon, full marathon and the popular 15km “Around Tamar” course. When they were not in athletic challenge mode, the runners were able to experience the Dead Sea’s renowned therapeutic benefits such as the mud baths.
“We are so pleased that this year’s race has been such a huge success, and it’s great to see runners from the UK take part in this extraordinary sporting event” said Michael ben Baruch, Director of the UK Ministry of Tourism. “Events like this are a great reason to visit Israel — not only to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings of the race but to explore many of the tourism highlights across the whole country.”
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