GRODNO, 23 July (BelTA) – The bike marathon Susedzi (Neighbors) gathered about 700 riders in Augustow Canal, BelTA informs.
The marathon, which was held for the eighth time, has become an important cycling event for Grodno Oblast and Belarus in general. This time, taking part in the event were about 700 riders from Belarus, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, and Russia. The start and finish zones were located in a picturesque place near Dombrovka Sluice.
“Many come here with their families and plan their vacations to attend Susedzi. This is the best testimony to the importance of the marathon,” said director of the marathon Ivan Naidenov. He stressed that the marathon is a family-friendly event as it features a mini marathon of about 7km, a half marathon of 39km, a marathon of 65km and a 100m children's race. Prizewinners were named in more than 30 nominations.
Two-year-old Egor Novogran from Minsk took part in a 100m children's race and also in an adult marathon as a passenger. His parents Alexander and Lida came to the festival for the second time. “We come here for a couple of days. The nature is beautiful, the fishing is good. It is a perfect place for outdoor family activities,” they said.
A family from Bialystok, Poland is a regular participant in the marathon. 10-year-old Olivia took part in a mini marathon, while her parents Janina and Andrzej had a go at the half marathon and marathon respectively. “We are here for the fourth time and like it very much. We like the organization and people we meet here. And it is also very convenient to get here,” said Janina. They, as many other participants from Poland, made use of Belarus' visa-free entry to Augustow Canal. They crossed the border on bikes at the Lesnaya-Rudawka checkpoint.
The Susedzi marathon unites many bike fans: athletes, businessmen, diplomats and civil servants. “Everyday cycling has become a good tradition for our family. Marathon is a great opportunity to see the canal,” Deputy Chairman of the Grodno District Executive Committee Valery Balashov said. He and his family took part in a mini marathon.
According to Valery Balashov, the popularity of the bike marathon with people from different countries has become an additional stimulus for the development of the cycling infrastructure in the region.
The marathon was organized by the Grodno District Executive Committee and the public cycling association VeloGrodno.
Photo by Leonid Shcheglov
