Kyiv Marathon Replaces Starter's Pistol to Protect Veterans' Mental Health

The Kyiv Marathon, scheduled for Sunday, September 22, 2024, is set to introduce a significant change to its starting procedure. In a move aimed at protecting veterans from potential Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) triggers, organizers have decided to replace the traditional starter's pistol with a less jarring sound.

This innovative approach comes as Ukraine continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict with Russia, now in its 32nd month. The event has been dubbed Ukraine's "first barrier-free marathon," expecting to draw thousands of participants, including those with disabilities and injuries sustained during the war.

Olena Plakhova, representing Nova Post, the team behind the 'Start without a Shot' initiative, stated:

"We have been organising marathons for nine years and firmly believe that there is no place for gunshots or pistols at running events in any form. We were eager to integrate Ukrainian motifs into the sound, while keeping it modern, conveying a sense of unity to the runners, and avoiding any traumatic associations."

The new starting sound resembles the countdown beeps used in Formula One races, rather than a single gunshot. Sound designers also drew inspiration from the sound of an airplane taking off and the countdown to New Year's Eve, creating a modern and unifying auditory experience.

This initiative reflects a broader awareness of mental health issues in Ukraine. Recent data from the country's health ministry indicates that the number of people diagnosed with mental health complaints has doubled since 2023. Additionally, sales of antidepressants have surged by 50% over the past three years, highlighting the psychological toll of the ongoing conflict.

The Kyiv Marathon's innovative approach may have far-reaching implications. Organizers are in discussions with marathon events in Poland and the United States to introduce the new starting sound, potentially sparking a global trend in running events.

As Ukraine faces these challenges, it's worth noting that marathons have a rich history dating back to the first modern event at the 1896 Olympics in Athens. Today, these 26.2-mile (42.195 km) races are held worldwide, including in Antarctica, attracting approximately 1% of the global population as participants.

The Kyiv Marathon, first held in 1983, continues to evolve and adapt to the needs of its participants. As runners prepare for Sunday's event, they'll be part of a significant moment in marathon history, one that prioritizes inclusivity and mental health awareness in the face of ongoing adversity.