Thousands Cycle Around Sea of Galilee in Annual Event
Translated & summarized from Sport5 by baba
Around 8,000 cyclists participated in the annual "Sovev Kinneret" event around the Sea of Galilee on Saturday. The festival, organized by the Jordan Valley Regional Council and others, featured races for all ages and a festive atmosphere. Omer Ramon won the men's full lap, and Aviv Donski won the women's full lap. Organizers celebrated the event's success and its role in boosting regional tourism.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Approximately 8,000 cyclists participated in the "Sovev Kinneret" event around the Sea of Galilee.
- Omer Ramon won the men's full lap race with a time of 1:25:25.
- Aviv Donski won the women's full lap race with a time of 1:46:42.
- The event was postponed by one week due to safety concerns.
- Festivities included a concert by singer Dekel and a local produce market.
- The event aimed to boost tourism in the Jordan Valley region.
Approximately 8,000 cyclists participated in the "Sovev Kinneret" (Sea of Galilee Tour) event on Saturday, a large-scale cycling festival held around the national lake. Participants of all ages and backgrounds gathered at the starting line at Tzemach Beach for the event, which was initiated by the Jordan Valley Regional Council in cooperation with the Kinneret Cities Association and the Israel Cycling Association, and produced by Schwung, part of the RGE media group.
Following a week's postponement, participants enjoyed ideal weather and riding conditions, with roads completely closed to traffic, allowing for a safe and enjoyable ride against the backdrop of the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights. The atmosphere was described as electric, with families and children taking part in the three different race categories: a full lap, a half lap, and a 10 km race for children and families.
The festivities began on Friday afternoon at Beit Gabriel, where thousands of visitors and early arrivals enjoyed a colorful local produce market and a performance by singer Dekel. The competitive full lap race saw Omer Ramon win the men's category in 1:25:25 hours after a breakaway. Israel's champion, Nadav Raisberg, finished second, followed by Ido Dagan in third.
In the women's race, Aviv Donski secured first place with a time of 1:46:42 hours, with Tamar Bezalel and Hagar Lahav completing an IGP team podium sweep. Organizers expressed satisfaction with the event's success and public turnout. Guy Sharon, CEO of Schwung, highlighted the decision to postpone the event for safety, noting the perfect day for sports and community. Idan Greenbaum, Head of the Jordan Valley Regional Council, thanked the participants and emphasized the importance of tourism to the region. Daphna Lang, Chairwoman of the Israel Cycling Association, praised the event as a reflection of "beautiful Israel," showcasing the diversity of participants from elite athletes to families and wounded soldiers.
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