Epic Israel Cycling Race Returns After Three-Year Hiatus
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
The Winner Epic Israel cycling race concluded in the Western Galilee after a three-year break, with Tomer Caspi and Tomer Zaltsman winning the men's category. The event, honoring Giora Tzur, returned to the region thanks to JNF trail upgrades and regional recovery efforts. Approximately 500 cyclists participated, including wounded soldiers and youth, contributing to the local economy and symbolizing resilience.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Tomer Caspi and Tomer Zaltsman won the men's category of the Winner Epic Israel race.
- The cycling race returned to the Western Galilee after a three-year hiatus.
- Approximately 500 cyclists competed over four days on over 300 kilometers of trails.
- The race's return was supported by JNF trail rehabilitation efforts in northern Israel.
- Wounded IDF soldiers and youth from empowerment programs participated in the event.
- The race provided an economic boost to local businesses in the Western Galilee.
The Winner Epic Israel cycling race concluded on Saturday, October 17th, in the Western Galilee, marking its return after a three-year absence due to security concerns. The event, now in its 11th year and held in memory of Giora Tzur, saw approximately 500 cyclists compete over four days on routes spanning more than 300 kilometers with a cumulative elevation gain of about 3,000 meters.
Tomer Caspi and Tomer Zaltsman of the Tomer's team were crowned the overall men's champions, finishing with a combined time of 09:52:12. Awards were also presented in various other categories, including women's, masters, and mixed teams.
The race's return to the northern region was facilitated by rehabilitation and upgrade work conducted by the Jewish National Fund (JNF) in northern Israel. This included the renovation of hundreds of kilometers of single-track trails in areas like Hanita, Kabri, Yehiam, and Matzuba, some of which were incorporated into the race course, allowing riders access to trails closed for the past three years.
The event's revival in the Galilee aligns with broader regional recovery efforts led by the "Tnupha LaTzafon" administration, aimed at strengthening northern communities and restoring cultural, sports, and tourism activities. The influx of riders, their families, and spectators provided a boost to local businesses, hotels, and restaurants in the Western Galilee communities affected by recent conflicts.
This year's race also featured a significant participatory element, with wounded IDF soldiers from the "Achim LeChaim" association and youth from the "Bartali" association, which uses cycling for youth empowerment, taking part. Their involvement added a layer of meaning related to resilience, rehabilitation, and the return to normalcy.
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