Andriy Hrechany to Break Ukrainian Record Running Marathon in Full Firefighter Gear Weighing Over 20 kg

A Marathon Honoring Fallen Heroes

According to Рубрика — Суспільство: Rescuer Andriy Hrechany is set to break a new Ukrainian record by completing a full marathon distance of 42 kilometers wearing complete firefighting equipment weighing more than 20 kilograms. Scheduled for September 19–20, 2026, this run aims to raise funds to support the rehabilitation of military personnel. Andriy dedicates this record attempt to his fallen colleagues Viktor Kuzmenko and Dmytro Skryl, who lost their lives on May 5, 2026, during the aftermath of an artillery attack.

Andriy is no stranger to endurance challenges in heavy gear; in 2024, he set a national record by running a half marathon while carrying 22.5 kg of firefighting equipment. His training for this upcoming marathon has been carried out during off-duty hours, demonstrating his strong commitment. The primary goal is to collect donations to aid the rehabilitation efforts for soldiers at the Dnipro Medical and Sports Complex (MSC 'Dnipro'). This fundraising initiative is supported by MHP, the 'MHP-Community' Foundation, and NewRun.

Participate Remotely in the Marathon

Due to deteriorating security conditions, the traditional mass start in downtown Cherkasy will not take place. Instead, anyone interested can join the marathon virtually by running the distance at a time and place convenient to them. This flexible format encourages broader participation in this meaningful cause. For context, the 2024 Kyiv Marathon of Resilience attracted 10,200 participants, including 9,600 runners spanning military personnel, veterans, children, amateurs, and professionals.

This event not only highlights the critical need to support those serving in the military but also symbolizes public solidarity with those who sacrifice their lives defending the nation. Hosting the marathon online enables people from all across Ukraine to engage, fostering unity and collective support. Raising funds for military rehabilitation remains vital amid ongoing challenges, as many veterans require urgent medical and psychological care.

In a similar spirit of community support, the recent initiative by Druga Rika successfully raised 12.9 million hryvnias to provide a reconnaissance evacuation boat for Ukraine. Such efforts highlight the growing momentum in mobilizing resources for crucial causes, showcasing how collective actions can significantly impact the lives of those in need, particularly in the context of ongoing military challenges.