Ukrainian veterans Dmytro Soliarenko and Viktor Shevchenko completed the 51st Marine Corps Marathon in Washington, D.C. They ran as part of the USUA Veterans Team—organized by the American non-profit US Ukrainian Activists—and represented Ukraine under the "Team Ukraine" banner. Dmytro crossed the finish line singing "Oi u luzi chervona kalyna".
This was reported in a press release by US Ukrainian Activists (USUA).
The Marine Corps Marathon, known as "The People's Marathon," is the third-largest marathon in the United States and the largest race in the world that offers no cash prizes. This year, more than 33,000 runners from around the globe tackled the 26.2-mile (over 42 km) course.
For Dmytro Soliarenko, the journey to this marathon began three years ago with a gift from a fellow veteran. After the 2023 race, Viktor Shevchenko gave him a U.S. Marine Corps cap. It became a lucky charm for Dmytro during his training sessions and races, and he wore it while running this year’s marathon. For Viktor Shevchenko, this marked his second time participating in the event; in 2023, he accompanied a wounded comrade along the course, helping him navigate the route while adjusting to a new prosthetic leg.
"Dmytro Soliarenko proudly crossed the Marine Corps Marathon finish line singing “Ой у лузі червона калина” (“Oh, the Red Viburnum in the Meadow”), a beloved Ukrainian patriotic song symbolizing national pride, resilience, and the unwavering determination of Ukrainians to defend their freedom and independence. Originally associated with the Ukrainian Sich Riflemen during World War I, the song has become a powerful anthem of resistance and unity during Ukraine's ongoing fight against Russian aggression. Dmytro's heartfelt performance made his finish especially moving — a celebration of Ukrainian courage and an unbreakable spirit!," - the organization noted.
It was also noted that USUA has supported the participation of a Ukrainian team in the marathon since 2016—organizing meetings, assisting veterans and military personnel during their stay in Washington, and gathering supporters along the race route. In 2024, the organization formed its own team of veterans, marking the third consecutive year this initiative has taken place.
"For US Ukrainian Activists (USUA), the Marine Corps Marathon is much more than just a race. It is a journey of healing, resilience, and hope. Through this initiative, we honor Ukraine’s heroes, support their rehabilitation and empowerment, draw attention to Ukraine’s ongoing struggle against Russian aggression, and strengthen the bonds of friendship and solidarity between Ukrainian and American veterans, military communities, and our two nations," says Nadiia Shaporynska, President of US Ukrainian Activists.
According to the organizers, before the marathon, the Ukrainian teams participating in the race were welcomed at Ukraine House, along with representatives of the Embassy of Ukraine in the United States, Senior Defense Attaché Andrii Melnyk, and Defense Attachés Oleksandr Bohomolov and Yurii Dolotov. The participants also received training support from the Veterans Running Club, led by Nataliia Krushynska.
Photo: US Ukrainian Activists
Author: Inna Mikhno