Thu 14 Dec 2023 • Nick Kershaw
Petra Reimagined: A Testament to Resilience and Solidarity with Impact Marathon
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Our recent journey to Petra during the Jordan Impact Marathon was more than a visit to a historical marvel; it was a profound statement of solidarity, a commitment to standing alongside communities that face the echoes of regional conflicts.
In the shadows of Petra's rose-red cliffs, amidst its winding gorges and towering facades, lies a story of resilience, a narrative that resonates with the core of what we at Impact Marathon stand for. Our recent journey to Petra during the Jordan Impact Marathon was more than a visit to a historical marvel; it was a profound statement of solidarity, a commitment to standing alongside communities that face the echoes of regional conflicts.
The eerily quiet pathways of Petra, which once bustled with over 6000 visitors daily, saw a mere fraction of this number during our event. This silence was not just a physical absence of tourists; it represented the far-reaching impacts of surrounding conflicts on Jordan, a nation that has stood as a pillar of cultural richness and stability. Our decision to continue with the event, despite the challenges, was a deliberate choice to support and uplift the communities that rely on tourism and cultural exchange, as well as our partner charities, for their livelihoods.
Our experience in Petra was transformative. Each quiet corner of this ancient city whispered stories of a civilisation that thrived through innovation and determination, mirroring the endurance and spirit of today’s Jordanians. As we traversed through the Siq and stood before the iconic Al-Khazneh, we were reminded of our own journey with Impact Marathon. Like the Nabataeans who carved an oasis of culture in the desert, we too strive to carve out paths of positive impact, to bring stories of hope and change where they are needed the most.
We believe in the power of presence, in the significance of showing up and standing by those in times of adversity. Our runners, who came from all corners of the world, were not just participants in a race; they were ambassadors of empathy, bearers of a message that in the face of challenges, solidarity prevails. This was not just about running through the historical pathways of Petra; it was about running in support of a nation, its heritage, and its people.
Our time in Petra was a confluence of history, culture, and community, blending the joy of exploration with the depth of understanding and connection. As we explored this city, we did more than just witness its beauty; we engaged with its narrative, a narrative that is as much a part of Jordan's present and future as it is of its past.
At Impact Marathon, we are driven by the conviction that our actions, however small they may seem, can ripple out and create significant change. By choosing to hold our event in Jordan and including Petra in our itinerary, we made a conscious decision to contribute positively to a narrative that often goes unheard amidst the noise of regional unrest. We stood, and will continue to stand, in solidarity with those who strive to preserve and celebrate their culture against all odds.
Our journey through Petra was an embodiment of our ethos – to be more than just runners, to be changemakers, storytellers, and allies in the collective quest for a better world. We are proud of this decision, proud of each runner who joined us, and proud to be part of a community that believes in the power of unity and resilience.
Follow our journey and be a part of the change at @ImpactMarathons
