On Sunday November 27th 2011, the Beirut Marathon took place, uniting people from Lebanon’s various religious, political and social groups. 32000 runners participated in the Marathon this year. Local and international runners came together and swarmed the streets of Beirut. Several Lebanon-based NGOs had organised teams of runners for this year’s race in an effort to promote their cause.
For Save the Children, the Marathon was a fun activity that supported the rights of children in Lebanon. 60 participants wore t-shirts with Save the Children’s message “running for Children’s Rights since 1919" across their chests. They were designed by children in different colours symbolisng the child rights spirit that the organisation promotes.
Save the Children’s team were very busy: some were running, others were providing water and sponges, cheering on the 42 km runners, while others distributed publications to people in an open space dedicated to different NGOs part of the Marathon.
Children were very enthusiastic about the event and took part in the 10km fun run along with their parents. Once they crossed the finish line and arrived to Save the Children stand, they were very proud of their medals. A 5 year old boy who walked the 10 km with his mother said: “I am thirsty and tired but I got a medal!” An 11 year old girl got lost in the crowd trying to reach the finish line. When she arrived to Save the Children’s stand, she shouted: “Save the Children won! I got us a medal!”
