On Saturday, 23 March in Sobótka the Sixth Artresan Active Ślęża Half-Marathon was held. It was the 6th edition of the half-marathon considered by many runners to be one of the most important and most difficult races in Lower Silesia. In comparison to the previous year, the weather conditions were completely different. As the Race Manager, Wiesław Drozdowski said: this time instead of a "may outing" and spring time we were surrounded by severe winter conditions. Until the very last moment, we fought for an iceless and dry route.
Despite such difficult weather conditions, and what is related with it, a very difficult route of 21.097 m, as many as 2659 participants completed the race. No attendance record was broken, but both the organizers and the partners of the race, and what is most important, the participants as well, were quite satisfied with their participation in this prestigious sport event.
Professional runners and amateurs from Poland and from abroad took part in the race. For some, it was the first long distance race, while for others just another stage in their long lasting career of a runner. Running in such difficult conditions turned out to be a challenge for everybody, and only those who remembered that in order to practice running one has to train properly had a chance to cover the distance in a "good" time. Proper clothes and shoes are not all, unfortunately!
Runners have to take good care of their osteoarticular system first of all. Why is it so important? Because people who actively practice various forms of physical activity or sport disciplines (both professionally and as amateurs) belong to a group with a higher risk of joint injuries and micro-injuries. People who run frequently suffer from injuries of the articular cartilage, tendons and meniscus. That is why everybody who practices various forms of sports should take up preventive measures which will help protect their joints. For such people who consciously and actively take care of their physical condition and health an innovative preparation was developed: Artresan Active. This year, Artresan Active was the titular sponsor of the half-marathon in Sobótka and accompanied runners throughout the event. At a special stand, all runners and their supporters could learn how to take care, protect and strengthen their joints.
Among the runners in Sobótka soldiers were a considerable group, as simultaneously the Championship of the Polish Army was held there. A military band played for all runners and their supporters, and in particular, for the winners while they were awarded prizes.
In Sobótka, ASA Team Running for Health was also present. Its leader, Radosław Kłeczek, was the most successful runner - with a time of 01 minute 07.45 seconds, he was third in the Open category. He was also awarded the prize for the best Pole as he was the one who separated the three runners from Kenya at the finish line. Barbara Sobczyk from the Wrocław ASA Team Running for Health (coach: Tomasz Sobczyk) had a very good result too: she was the winner in the age category K25. We congratulate all the runners from ASA Team Running for Health. We would like to thank you very much and we keep our fingers crossed for you in the next competitions!