15 February 2025

More Than 350 People Took Part in the Sybir Memorial Run in Wrocław

On February 15, 2025, the third edition of the Sybir Memorial Run was held in Wrocław.

The event continues to enjoy growing popularity, with more participants joining each year. This time, over 350 people took part in Wrocław alone.

The Osobowicki Forest hosted the run for the third time. Despite the chilly weather, the atmosphere among participants was warm and vibrant. Runners began gathering at the Race Office from 3:00 p.m., collecting their race packs and numbers.

Grupa ludzi stoi w kolejce pod namiotami, gdzie odbywa się odbiór pakietów startowych. Osoby są ubrane w zimowe ubrania, w tym kurtki, czapki i rękawiczki. Namioty są oświetlone, a wokół nich panuje wieczorny półmrok. Ludzie czekają cierpliwie, niektórzy rozmawiają.

Grupa ludzi w zimowych kurtkach i czapkach stoi przy stole pod namiotem. Na stole leżą różne materiały, w tym ulotki i plakietki. Osoby przy stole są zaangażowane w rozmowę i przeglądanie materiałów. Na stole znajduje się również termos i kubek. W tle widać więcej osób w podobnych strojach.

The official opening ceremony took place at 5:45 p.m., where organizers reminded everyone of the run’s purpose and wished participants a safe journey to the finish line.

Professor Wojciech Śleszyński, director of the Sybir Memorial Museum, emphasized the significance of the date:

“On February 10, 1940, the first trains headed east. Exactly 85 years ago, for five days, trains carrying our citizens departed for Siberia. I’m glad that together — in both Białystok and Wrocław — we can honor this date. As we run today and encounter installations along the route, let us remember those people. Let us not forget our history.”

Prof. Wojciech Śleszyński, dyrektor Muzeum Pamięci Sybiru przemawia do mikrofonu. Obok niego stoi Ryszard Janosz, prezes wrocławskiego oddziału Związku Sybiraków.

Ryszard Janosz, prezes wrocławskiego oddziału Związku Sybiraków przemawia do mikrofonu. Obok niego stoją Sybiraczki.

Ryszard Janosz, President of the Wrocław branch of the Association of Siberian Deportees, also took the floor:

“We, Sybiraks, are truly grateful that you’ve chosen to commemorate the memory of Siberian exiles in this way. This year marks the 85th anniversary of the morning when the Soviets broke into our homes and deported us to Siberia. Your presence today shows that the memory of those deportations — of this brutal crime — is still alive.”

At 6:00 p.m., the first group of runners set off. The 5-kilometer route led through forest trails and included thought-provoking artistic installations. The first checkpoint featured a gate made of stacked suitcases — a glowing symbol of the journey and loss that marked the deportees’ fate. Another installation presented three illuminated train cars, with the sound of an approaching train adding to the immersive experience. These elements were designed to evoke reflection and highlight the deeper meaning of the event. Candles placed at the end of the route served as a tribute to the Sybiraks.

Uśmiechnięty mężczyzna w okularach oraz z latarką czołową ma uniesione kciuki do góry. Obok niego inni uczestnicy Biegu Pamięci Sybiru.

Grupa uczestników biegu z latarkami czołowymi. Obok nich rozstawione są banery reklamowe.

The Sybir Memorial Run is more than a sporting event — it is, above all, a tribute to those who endured Soviet repression. It brings together people of all generations from across Poland and around the world.

We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated and helped organize the third Wrocław edition of the Sybir Memorial Run. It is thanks to you that the memory of these events lives on.

And remember — it’s not too late to join the virtual run! Wherever you are, you can be part of this meaningful initiative. Every kilometer you complete will contribute to the collective total.