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The traditional San Silvestre Race took place this morning on the main streets of the Cuban capital, bringing together hundreds of local runners who bid farewell to one of the most difficult and sorrowful years in Cuba's history with sports and energy.
The participants completed a 10-kilometer circuit around the Sports City in an event organized by the Sports Directorate of Havana in collaboration with the National Commission of Marabana-Maracuba Races and Walks.
The route included iconic avenues such as Vía Blanca, Primelles, Santa Catalina, and Boyeros, with the runners completing five laps of the circuit.
The race began at seven in the morning from the parking lot of the Ciudad Deportiva, and participants checked in one hour early to verify their registration, using the official bib numbers for Marabana 2024.
The top three positions in both the men's and women's categories were awarded, as well as the best representatives from associations for people with disabilities.
The origin of this competition dates back to 1925 in São Paulo, Brazil, when journalist Cásper Líbero, inspired by nighttime races he witnessed in Paris, decided to organize a similar event on the night of December 31st.
Today, it is a global phenomenon, and in Havana, it represents an opportunity for outstanding athletes, amateur runners, and citizens in general to wrap up the year with energy and a sense of community amidst the economic, political, and social crisis affecting the island.
Just over a month ago, the Marabana 2024, held on November 17 in Havana, brought together 2,367 athletes from Cuba and abroad for its 38th edition, dedicated to the 505th anniversary of the Cuban capital and the Day of Physical Culture and Sports.
The race included distances of 5, 10, 21, and 42 kilometers, with the start and finish at the Ramón Fonst multi-purpose hall, in front of the Capitolio in Havana.
In this edition, the government-sponsored program "Mesa Redonda" presented a special award to the first male and female runners to reach the 25-kilometer mark of the route, located in Monserrate, near the equestrian statue of José Martí.
Additionally, it was announced that participants would wear sports attire provided by Adidas, thanks to an agreement between the company and the National Institute of Sports, Physical Education, and Recreation (INDER) of Cuba.
Frequently Asked Questions about the San Silvestre Race in Havana
What is the San Silvestre Race in Havana?
The San Silvestre Race in Havana is an annual sporting event that takes place on December 31, allowing runners to bid farewell to the year with a physical activity along the main streets of the Cuban capital.
How many kilometers is the San Silvestre Race circuit in Havana?
The route for the San Silvestre Race in Havana spans 10 kilometers, covering iconic avenues such as Vía Blanca, Primelles, Santa Catalina, and Boyeros, with runners completing a total of five laps around the circuit.
Who organizes the San Silvestre Race in Havana?
The San Silvestre Race in Havana is organized by the Havana Sports Directorate, in collaboration with the National Commission of Marabana-Maracuba Races and Walks.
How are the participants of the San Silvestre Race in Havana rewarded?
The top three positions in both the men's and women's categories will be awarded, along with the best representatives from associations for people with disabilities, acknowledging their effort and performance in the race.
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