From July 12th until August 16th, United Hatzalah of Israel is inviting people from all across the globe to participate in an international race that is taking place in local parks, streets, and even in the comfort of one’s own home. ‘The Race To Save Lives 5K’ is a virtual five-kilometer/three-mile race that people can participate in without leaving their own neighborhoods. Due to health concerns revolving around the current coronavirus pandemic, this is a difficult time for everyone. It is a challenge to stay healthy and stay connected with one another and raise money to save lives.

President and Founder of United Hatzalah Eli Beer said: “One of the best ways to stay healthy is to keep active. Under the strain and social distancing of the Covid-19 Coronavirus pandemic, it has become very difficult for people to keep up a regular workout routine. We are taking the initiative and giving people a goal while creating a forum where people can run together even as they maintain social distancing. While we would love to have a largescale group run, public health comes first. Through this project, runners will not only be helping themselves stay active as they train for the five-kilometer run, but they will also help us save lives while they are at it.”

The organization will be providing runners with a month-long training plan that will include group coaching, team building, health tips, running tricks, swag such as masks and t-shirts, and even specialized running playlists suggested by other runners. Inspirational stories of running rescues will also be sent to participants who will have the opportunity to learn and share information about running with one another as well as hear from volunteer EMTs who themselves run regularly and have saved lives along the way.

The race itself will take place on August 16th, and will be shared virtually between runners. Following the race, there will be a virtual award ceremony for the fastest runners and the fastest teams.

Participants can register via the website https://savelives5k.com/ and can choose to run by themselves or as part of a team. The fundraising goal for runners over the age of 18 is $500 and for those under 18, it is $250. All of the funds raised will go directly to aiding United Hatzalah in saving lives across Israel. While participating, United Hatzalah encourages participants to share inspiration with friends and loved ones by posting photos they take of themselves on social media.

All participating teams will receive vouchers for supplies that will enable them to throw a socially distant outdoor celebration at a location of their choosing. Teams that surpass their fundraising goal will also win special prizes.