Lithuanian BELC partner municipality hosts running event to embody EU values

On Europe Day, 9 May, 2024, Akmenė District Sports Center organised a vibrant running event that was supported by BELC member Tomas Martinaitis. 

This event saw an impressive turnout – starting at 1pm, a large crowd of over 400 participants from Naujoji Akmenė, Venta, Papilė, Mažeikiai, and Joniškis gathered in Naujoji Akmenė. The number of runners included both professional athletes and people with disabilities. The youngest participant was a four-year-old girl from a Naujoji Akmenė kindergarten, while the oldest was an 84-year-old woman.  

This running event highlighted the values of the European Union: freedom, equality, tolerance, and solidarity. Participants not only competed with each other but also showed support for their friends and acquaintances. During the breaks, the crowd was entertained with good music and cheerful games adding to the festive atmosphere. 

To make the day memorable for everyone involved, Tomas Martinaitis and EUROPE DIRECT Šiauliai ensured that all the participants were awarded medals, trophies, and European Union souvenirs. 

Event video: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1borUrydgh-LwvXtegrlar4dpf27kQ2u-/view?usp=sharing