Thousands Run in Western Negev's 'Race of Hope' Commemorating October 7

Thousands of runners from across Israel participated on Friday in the "Race of Hope 2026" held in the communities and fields of the Western Negev. The race, which started and ended near the Yellow Gate at the entrance to Kibbutz Be'eri, guided participants through routes that passed by communities, agricultural lands, and memorial sites in the region. For the participants, returning to the Western Negev and passing through sites associated with the events of October 7 added a dimension of remembrance, hope, and revival to the race.

The event was initiated and produced by Marathon Israel, part of the ToMix group, and by Aya Meidan, a resident of Kibbutz Be'eri. It was held under the primary sponsorship of Harel Insurance and Finance Group, in cooperation with the Eshkol Regional Council, KKL-JNF, the Maccabiah, the "Tikumah" (Revival) Administration, the Ministry of Culture and Sport, and other partners.

Participants chose from four routes: 3 km for families, 6.7 km, 13 km, and 22 km. The routes traversed the fields of the Western Negev and passed near the memorial sites of October 7, including historical sites and places of renewal and hope, such as the memorial site for the victims of the Nova music festival in the Re'im forest. Content stations and exhibits along the routes focused on remembrance, renewal, and the return to life in the area.

At the end of the race, participants returned to the finish area near Kibbutz Be'eri's entrance, where a farmers' market featuring local produce from the Western Negev was held, alongside performances by regional artists. This area was designed to expose participants to local businesses, farmers, and creators, fostering a connection between the running event and the local community and activities.

Opher Peden, CEO of Marathon Israel, described the event as one of the most moving races they have created, symbolizing hope, strength, and revival. He noted that the route passed through places that tell the story of the region since October 7 and its process of returning to life. Marathon Israel envisions the Race of Hope as a long-term international event that will attract runners from around the world annually to learn about the region, remember October 7, and support its residents.

Aya Meidan emphasized the significance of thousands of people coming to run in the Western Negev, highlighting the area's transformation since October 7 and how the race allows people to witness their experiences and renewal processes firsthand. Adam Polczak of Harel Insurance stated their pride in being the primary sponsor, connecting remembrance, community, and mutual responsibility, and seeing the impressive turnout as a testament to the Israeli society's strength to unite, remember, and look forward with hope.

Michal Uziel, Head of the Eshkol Regional Council, expressed great emotion seeing the paths and fields filled with people from across the country running with them, remembering, and embracing. She stated the race tells the story of Eshkol, acknowledging the enduring pain and loss alongside the continuing life, rebuilding communities, and hope for a better future.