Stride by stride - Tens of thousands gather for Russia’s annual Kazan Marathon

"Almost 45,000 athletes from 39 countries took part in the 12th Kazan Marathon in southwest Russia on Saturday. Footage shows runners passing through the city streets, some dressed in costumes. An award ceremony was held for the finalists, with participants receiving commemorative medals. According to one participant, Denis, the support from the crowd created the atmosphere of a major event. "It’s like, you know, going to a concert. It’s like stepping onto the stage, and suddenly people are watching you, all waiting for something from you. [...] when I go out, there are just crowds buzzing around. The drums are pounding, everyone’s shouting. It’s fantastic, honestly. You feel like you’re part of something bigger," he said. Lilia Mendayeva, the winner of the 10-kilometre race, highlighted that good conditions and healthy competition helped her achieve her personal best. "Today I set a new course record - 32:05. The track is stunning, very fast and smooth, the organisation is excellent, and the support is top-notch. I was cheered on almost every kilometre. It’s priceless," she added. Another athlete, Sergei Vasiliev, highlighted the event’s inclusive spirit, noting the involvement of volunteers supporting visually impaired runners. "The option to run alongside guide runners was immediately offered, with trained volunteers who had experienced it themselves. They wore masks, ran blindly, and learned how to navigate. Running with them is simple and engaging - quite mentally stimulating, even. They tell you everything: where the obstacles are, where the turns lie. You trust them, and running becomes quite straightforward," Vasiliev explained. Organisers reported that Sergei Sharov set the men’s 10-kilometre record with a time of 28:24. The event also saw Paralympians and representatives from charitable organisations taking part. The competition ran from 1 to 3 May, with distances of 3, 10, 21.1 and 42.2 kilometres, as well as children’s races. The Russian Marathon Championship was held for the fifth time as part of the event."

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