The race to unite: the European Union in Argentina bets on Running

On Sunday, May 8, one of the most anticipated activities of the Buenos Aires asphalt arrives: “European Union Bs As Run”.

The event was born in 2016 and year after year it was increasingly positioning itself as a strong bet on the Buenos Aires calendar for both beginner and more advanced runners, and even for elite athletes, being one of the few popular races with cash prizes. With its three distances, it invites everyone to participate: 15 K and 7 K competitive, and 2 K family participative s (runs walk).

This year the race will be the main activity of the European Union in Argentina to celebrate Europe Day in the framework of the European Year of Youth. Europe Day, which takes place every May 9, commemorates the historic milestone that founded the European regional integration process: the declaration made in 1950 by the then French Minister for Foreign Affairs, Robert Schuman, to launch the idea of uniting European countries so closely, through such interdependence profound, that the war between them would be impossible from now on.

The European Union is an economic and political association of 27 European countries that was born from the ashes of World War II. His first steps were to promote “de facto solidarity” with the idea that, as the interdependence of countries trading with each other increased, the chances of war conflict between them would diminish. While it is true that it began as a regional economic process, it has evolved to integrate a wide variety of public policies at European level.

The EU also has a common foreign and security policy. Together with its member countries, it is today the leading contributor of international cooperation, development aid and humanitarian assistance worldwide.

With its three distances, it invites everyone to participate: 15K and 7K competitive, and 2K family participative

On Wednesday, March 16, a presentation of the race was held at the European Union offices in Argentina where several leaders from the world of running and members of the organization and the EU gathered. The ambassador of the EU delegation to Argentina, Amador Sanchez Rico, expressed his joy with this project that allows integration and inclusion, breaking down borders. He also made it clear that his intention is to convey a message of unity, and peace, so timely in this world context that is being experienced with the war in Ukraine. Without taking any political position on it, simply proclaiming peace, such is the slogan of the event or: “Make the asphalt feel your footprint. Let's run for peace.”

This race, in addition to being peaceful, has a strong solidarity and inclusive profile. A percentage of the proceeds from registrations will be donated to the Jean Maggi Foundation, which is dedicated to providing special bicycles to children and young people who are not mobile for different reasons.

The event proposes to enjoy pure running on a Sunday to share with friends and family, and invites those who do not run to join, to witness the massive sports event and be part of the post-race: “Team Europe Village or the After” that will take place in the park of the event's grounds, starting in Figueroa Alcorta and Dorrego.

There will be three large spider tents with activities in line with EU priorities: the fight against climate change and environmental protection, digital technology, education, tourism, gastronomy, and culture, among others.

On stage there will be dances and the participation of artists from different EU countries present in Argentina.

The European Union Buenos Aires Run thus becomes a competition for everyone to do their best to meet personal challenges, collaborate with noble causes, raise awareness about ecology and peace, and celebrate Europe Day together.

By Carolina Rossi, National Athletics Coach, Running Team Leader FILA Argentina, and runner www.carolinarossi.com.ar/ @carolinarossifilart

Photos: Gentileza Iloverunn

More info and registration:

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