Frederic Splendor: The Swiss Ultramarathoner
Over the course of 60 days, Swiss ultramarathon runner Frederic Splendor covered more than 4,200 kilometers through 14 European countries. He began his journey on July 24 in Monaco and completed it in Lviv, Ukraine, coinciding with the International Day of Peace. His mission was to raise awareness about the war in Ukraine, express solidarity with its people, and collect funds for humanitarian aid.
Former professional firefighter and dedicated philanthropist, Splendor pushed himself to run between 70 and 100 kilometers on some days. The toughest part of his route was crossing the Alps at the start. His path took him through the following countries:
- Monaco
- France
- Italy
- Switzerland
- Liechtenstein
- Austria
- Germany
- Italy (again)
- Slovenia
- Hungary
- Croatia
- Slovakia
- Poland
- Ukraine
The Ukrainian city of Lviv marked the finish line, where Splendor was warmly welcomed at the Lychakiv Military Cemetery.
Along the way, he stopped in Budapest for a gathering at the 'Shoes on the Danube Bank' memorial. The charitable aspect of his run was organized through the Swiss association Au-delà de l'Effort. Funds raised will be directed to the Chaîne du Bonheur (Swiss Solidarity) foundation, aiming to collect approximately €140,000 for humanitarian relief, housing reconstruction, medical aid, and education.
Splendor reflected: "The journey from Monaco to this place took 60 days. I carried the Ukrainian colors on my backpack, and I’m grateful to be in Ukraine. Yet, I’m deeply saddened because some of the people commemorated here were younger than me. I hope this war will end soon and that the children of everyone here will never have to experience war. I believe in the Ukrainian people."
As the 2023 Swiss champion in the 100 km race and 2024 vice-champion, Frederic Splendor shared his motivation: "I chose to run to Ukraine because Ukraine is Europe. I wanted to run to a country at war. From Switzerland to Ukraine is only about 1,700 kilometers—not as far as many think."
He emphasized that his goal went beyond covering the distance, focusing on aiding the Ukrainian population. "I’m just a runner. I don’t have political power or wealth. I only have my legs and heart, and I wanted to do something to support the Ukrainian people. That’s why I’m also raising funds and will continue to do so beyond today," he stated.
The Significance of the Marathon
Frederic Splendor's marathon was more than a remarkable athletic feat; it became a powerful act of solidarity with Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.
This initiative brought much-needed attention to Ukraine's humanitarian challenges and demonstrated how sport can become a vital platform for promoting peace. Splendor not only accomplished a physically demanding journey but also amplified the voices of Ukrainians in need. His efforts highlight the profound impact international support can have, even in difficult times.