Marathoning Across the Middle East

14 Mar 2008 in Jordan

Aid worker runs for IMC.

Photo: IMC

The Red Sea 10km Aqaba, Jordan

By Bethany Morehouse

It all started six months ago as I lounged on my couch with computer in lap and Digestif biscuit in hand. As I brushed the crumbs from my keyboard (accidentally deleting three emails in the process) I had an epiphany: working twelve hour days seven days a week and relying on falafel, schwerma, and packaged cookies from the corner store for sustenance will not lead to mental and physical well-being. Back in the States, exercise and eating well had become routine – unfortunately, in Jordan “doing the sporting” raises local eyebrows and french fries are a well-known side to every meal, even at The Salad Hut. Any hopes of obtaining whole wheat tortillas or reasonably priced fish would require crossing international borders. Things were looking bleak …

That is until the International Medical Corps (IMC) Jordan office moved to a permanent location, conveniently located one floor above the Dead Sea Ultramarathon Office. After a bit of research (check out marathonguide.com) I soon discovered races of variable length throughout the Middle East – Lebanon, Cyprus, Israel, Egypt, and Jordan.

Photo: IMC

Climbing in Wadi Rum, Jordan

With some careful planning I could realistically participate in international events while simultaneously training for the Dead Sea Marathon in Jordan and raising funds for IMC’s Middle East programs.

I should probably point out that I am – emphatically – NOT a runner. But inspired by a friend and future running companion, I decided to test the waters with a gentle 10km in the Jordan city of Aqaba. Since then, I have traveled to Israel for a second 10km and ventured to Egypt to run a half marathon. Weaving through the Valley of the Kings, dodging stray donkeys, and high-fiving the wide-eyed children lining the race route was a truly memorable experience. And crossing the finish line at Hatshepsut Temple left me with an overwhelming sensation (that so-called “runner’s high”) that continued to linger well after I returned to Amman.

In just under one month my 6-months of training will culminate with the Dead Sea Marathon. As they say, it’s about the journey – not the destination – although I’m quite sure I’ll be relieved to see the finish line after 42km of sweat and sand. Nonetheless, running in the Middle East has been an adventure unlike any other. I have bonded with fellow aid workers over favorite GU flavors and time splits; ventured into historic cities and places of antiquity; and witnessed compassion, hospitality, resiliance, and love each step of the way. As I look at the list of participants for the Dead Sea Marathon – Jordanians, Americans, Israelis, Egyptians, Syrians, Iraqis, Palestinians, and more – I can’t help but feel a sense of opportunity, a sense of community. And I take solace in knowing that, after the race, when the runners return to their countries of origin, IMC will be there to provide support, to foster self-reliance, and to enable conditions for peace and positive social change.

To find out how you can help, please visit my website.

[add a comment]

Add a Comment