IN PICTURES: Tens of thousands run in Jerusalem marathon
Though the first leg of the marathon began at 7:00 a.m., Israel Police were already blocking off the city's roadways at 5:45 a.m.
By JPOST.COM STAFFUpdated: MARCH 17, 2017 14:12
The Jerusalem Marathon kicked off from Gan Sacher park on Friday morning with about 30,000 people registered to participate in the event. The winner of the full marathon was a 26-year old man from Kenya named Shadrack Kipkogey, with a time of 2:17:36, according to the the Jerusalem Municipality.Though the first leg of the marathon began at 7:00 a.m., Israel Police were already blocking off the city's roadways at 5:45 a.m.Some 3,000 police officers, working in coordination with the Jerusalem Municipality and private security personnel, were out in increased numbers due to threats from members of the haredi (Ultra-orthodox) community that they would attempt to disrupt the marathon. So far, about 40 haredim were been stopped for questioning on various streets near the marathon's path.Other protestors were photographed French News Agency AFP, holding signs claiming that the marathon ran through occupied land.Among the marathon participants were children with disabilities, who participated with the help of Aleh, and organization that improves the lives of those with disabilities.
Volunteers included Police Commissioner Insp.- Gen. Roni Alsheich and Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat. Among the Marathon's more notable runners was Olympic medalist Ori Sasson, who led Team Shalva. Shalva is the Israel Association for Care and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities.