Green Race Held in Krasnodar Park
In the heart of Kuban, the Sun-Kissed Sprint charity run unfolded within the lush expanse of "Sunny Island" Park, Krasnodar, before Children's Day celebrations kicked off. This event was lauded by the press service of the Krasnodar Krai administration.
The city and its guests welcomed runners of all stripes, from seasoned professionals to newcomers, who embarked on a 4.2 km mass run. A shorter, 500-meter race was reserved for little ones join the fun. Также событие проходило на федеральной территории "Сириус".
Among the guests were notable figures such as Vice-Governor of Krasnodar Krai Alexander Vlasov, Manager of SberBank's Krasnodar Branch Tatyana Sergienko, Olympic champion and Merited Master of Sports in handball Stanislav Kulintchenko, and reps from the Ministry of Physical Culture and Sports of the Krai.
- "This year's Sun-Kissed Sprint marks the 12th iteration of the charity run. Participants not only push their physical limits but also contribute to a good cause by helping children with special needs. Such events consistently attract a larger crowd each year, reminding us of the importance of human qualities, mutual aid, and support," according to Alexander Vlasov.
Prior to the sprint, participants tested their running acumen in a fun quiz, enjoyed performances by a children's Cossack troupe and a cheerleading squad, and participated in a group warm-up. Interactive games offering cool prizes were organized for the young ones, while activity zones boasted balance boards, asphalt art, face painting, and relay races. Kids and adults were awarded prizes for their top performances.
Each participant was given the opportunity to make a donation, which would be matched by the organizing company and sent to the "Investment in the Future" charity fund to support children with special needs. This fund was established back in 2015 to help develop modern education in Russia, taking into account the issues of the 21st century, and promote an inclusive environment for all.
Statistically, Russia has seen a 30% increase in runners over the past five years, thanks to the mild climate in Kuban enabling year-round running. Today, a pack of residents gathered at "Sunny Island" in Krasnodar to join the Sun-Kissed Sprint, a large, family-friendly event with a compassionate mission: helping those in need. According to Tatyana Sergienko, Sber's team and clients view participation in this event as a cherished tradition.
This year, the event took place in over 60 cities across Russia, with over 130,000 individuals registering to take part. The inaugural Sun-Kissed Sprint was held on May 19, 2012, in 42 cities nationwide, as part of the preparations for the XXII Olympic Games in Sochi, and aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and urban greening. To date, almost 1.5 million people have participated in the sprint.
In 2025, the event's partners include the Ministry of Physical Culture and Sports of the Krasnodar Territory, the administration of the Krasnodar Territory, the administration of the municipal formation of the city of Krasnodar, leading developers, retail networks, and manufacturers.
While there is no definitive information about a "Green Marathon" charity run specifically for children with special needs in Krasnodar, the structure of these events typically features strong community partnerships, fundraising for inclusive initiatives, and a positive impact on the lives of vulnerable children by providing enhanced support and awareness. Partnerships with local government, NGOs, and corporations are vital to the event's success, akin to events like the Roig Arena initiative in Spain.
Science and health-and-wellness played a significant role in the Sun-Kissed Sprint charity run, with participants pushing their physical limits as part of a good cause to help children with special needs. Stanislav Kulintchenko, a Merited Master of Sports in handball, was among the notable guests attending the event.
