The Super Blue Marathon: A Decade of Inclusion and Awareness
The ‘Super Blue Marathon’ is a unique disability awareness campaign that brings together people with and without disabilities to run side by side. This year, the event will take place at 8 a.m. on the 8th at the Peace Plaza in Peace Park, Mapo-gu, Seoul. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the marathon has grown into a significant platform for promoting social integration and understanding.
A Collaborative Effort
The event is co-hosted by Special Olympics Korea and Lotte, with support from several key organizations. These include the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Korea Sports Promotion Foundation, Seoul Metropolitan Government, and the Community Chest of Korea. This collaboration highlights the growing recognition of the importance of inclusivity in sports and community engagement.
The Meaning Behind the Blue
The Super Blue Marathon is more than just a race; it combines the ‘Blue Campaign,’ which symbolizes a shift from disability awareness to social integration, with the act of running. Over the past decade, the event has become a festive celebration of unity, showcasing how people with and without disabilities can come together to foster a more inclusive society.
Each year, more than 8,000 participants, including individuals with disabilities, their families, and non-disabled runners, take part in the event. The message they carry is clear: disability should be seen as a form of difference rather than an obstacle. The blue shoelaces worn by participants are a powerful symbol of the ‘will to self-reliance in tying one’s own laces’ and the ‘care and love of someone tying laces for another.’
Diverse Course Options
This year’s event offers a variety of course options to accommodate different levels of participation. Runners can choose between a 10 km, 5 km, Super Blue 5 km, or Super Blue Walk (1.6 km). For those with disabilities participating in the Super Blue 5 km course, both directions of the World Cup Road will be open, ensuring a safe and accessible environment for all.
Entertainment and Support
On the day of the event, there will be special performances by Special Olympics Korea ambassadors Poppin Hyeonjun and Park Ae-ri. Additionally, Ultralase Session will host a congratulatory stage, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. The Lotte World Band is also scheduled to perform encouraging music for participants along the courses, providing motivation and a sense of community.
Vision for the Future
Jeong Yang-seok, president of Special Olympics Korea (SOK), emphasized the broader vision behind the event. He stated, “Beyond a running event, we will create an environment and opportunities for people with disabilities to freely and equally participate in all fields, including sports, culture, and arts.”
Expanding the Campaign Nationwide
Special Olympics Korea is also working to expand the Super Blue Campaign beyond Seoul. On November 21st, Jeju SOK plans to host the 1st Super Blue Jeju Olle Trail Walk. Incheon SOK holds an annual walking event for people with and without disabilities at Songdo Central Park every October. These initiatives reflect a commitment to fostering inclusivity across the country.
Conclusion
The Super Blue Marathon has evolved into a powerful symbol of unity, inclusion, and awareness. Through its various events and activities, it continues to promote the idea that everyone, regardless of ability, can contribute to and benefit from a more inclusive society. As the campaign expands nationwide, it paves the way for a future where differences are celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in life.