Israeli Men's Marathon Team Wins Gold at European Athletics Championships

The Israeli men's marathon team achieved a major victory by winning the team gold medal at the European Athletics Championships held in Birmingham. This success was driven by three Israeli runners finishing in the top eight: Gesau Ayela in third place, Tadesse Getahon fifth, and Eymeru Almeya eighth. Additional team members Yitayau Abohayi finished 12th, Maru Teferi 22nd, and Bokayo Melde 34th. Gesau Ayela also earned an individual bronze medal with a time of 2:09:21.

The team returned to Israel on Monday and spoke with Sport 5. Ayela expressed gratitude to supporters and pride in representing Israel, emphasizing the team's consistency with this being their third team gold. He highlighted the hard work and sacrifices made, including months of training camps away from family. Bokayo Melde reflected on the pride of winning in a city "that does not love our people," marking the third consecutive team gold in different countries. Eymeru Almeya called it a great honor to represent Israel and expressed happiness to be part of the achievement.

This victory underscores Israel's growing strength and depth in long-distance running on the European stage, with the team committed to proudly carrying the Israeli flag in all competitions.