On the festive day of March 11 – the day of the restoration of Lithuania’s Independence – the traditional “Obelisk for A. Kulviečius – Jonava” run will take place in Jonava, already the 34th.
One of the most popular early spring runs will once again remind us this year what it means to be free and how important it is to protect freedom. At the same time, it will be the third stage of the Lithuanian Running Cup (LBT).
“March 11 is a special date for our country, so we are all looking forward to this holiday. This date has an even more meaningful meaning in the context of today, when there is a war going on in Ukraine,” said Jonava Municipality Mayor Mindaugas Sinkevičius.
M. Sinkevičius emphasized that the tradition of running in Jonava was born even before Lithuania regained its independence, so it has been nurtured for decades.
“Even before the declaration of the restoration of the state of Lithuania, brave people gathered in Jonava who wore the tricolor and ran without fear of punishment. This run in Jonava is very patriotic, which is why it is so popular,” said the mayor of Jonava.
M. Sinkevičius himself regularly participates in the run “Obelisk for A. Kulviečius – Jonava”. He does not hide that he aims to set a positive example for the townspeople, and not just hang awards after the finish.
“Since the weather in March is difficult to predict, I would suggest that you check the expected weather before the run. It depends on what kind of clothing will be needed. During the runs in Jonava, it has repeatedly started to snow or drizzle out of nowhere. In such cases, headgear and gloves would not mix. Experienced runners will definitely be prepared, as Jonava’s run marks the beginning of the seasonal competition for many athletes. – said M. Sinkevičius. – My own form is not the best, but at the moment it is not so important for me to compete, but to overcome the distance, to run together with everyone. Jonava has been voted the most sporty city more than once, so the city manager needs to set an example.”
The run “Obelisk for A. Kulviečius – Jonava” will start at 12 noon on March 11. The participants of the main run will have to cover a distance of 15 km from the obelisk in Kulva district to Jonava city center. A little earlier – 10.45 am. next to the municipality of Jonava district, a start will be given to younger or less experienced runners who will compete in an exciting 2 km run.