Run For Garbage 2026 Draws Hundreds in Medan, Blending Sport and Environmental Action

MEDAN | INDATANEWS.COM – The City of Medan has reaffirmed its strong support for the environmentally focused running event Run For Garbage 2026, which successfully took place around the Lapangan Merdeka area, drawing hundreds of participants from diverse communities. The event combined physical activity with a powerful environmental message, turning the city center into a vibrant hub of sport and awareness.

The activity was centered around the Merdeka Walk area, with the start and finish line positioned at the strategic intersection between Hotel Grand Aston and Bank Mandiri. From early morning, the downtown area was filled with participants, organizers, and spectators creating a lively atmosphere.

City Government Backs Green Initiative

The Medan municipal government emphasized its commitment to environmental programs that actively engage the public. Run For Garbage 2026 is part of the city's broader strategy to strengthen environmental awareness and encourage sustainable behavior among residents.

Representing Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas, Head of the Medan Youth and Sports Agency, H.T. Chairuniza, attended the event. Military representatives were also present, including Danyon Kav 6/Naga Karimata Letkol Kav Adzan Marjohan and Dandim 0201/Medan Letkol Arm. Delli Yudha Adi Nurcahyo, who jointly delivered the official starting signal for participants.

The start procedure was conducted in an orderly manner, with officials offering encouragement to runners before the race began.

5-Kilometer Fun Run Across Central Medan

The event featured a 5-kilometer route passing through key roads in Medan's city center. Starting at 06.00 a.m., participants from various backgrounds—including students, civilians, civil servants, military, and police personnel—gathered with high enthusiasm at the starting area.

Under the theme "Run Today, Clean Tomorrow", the event delivered a clear message: sports and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Throughout the course, participants showed strong spirit and enjoyed the sense of community along the route.

Organizers ensured safety and smooth operations at strategic points along the track, maintaining order throughout the event.

Community Activities and Call for Sustainability

Beyond the run itself, the event adopted a fun-run concept that included participant kits such as official jerseys, finisher medals, race packs, e-certificates, and various prizes. The event also coincided with Medan's weekly Car Free Day, creating an even more eco-friendly and energetic city atmosphere.

Following the run, participants joined a mass aerobic session led by the Youth and Sports Agency. People of all ages, from children to seniors, took part and contributed to a lively and positive community spirit.

H.T. Chairuniza praised the smooth execution of the event and highlighted its importance.

"Medan strongly supports programs like this because they not only promote physical health but also strengthen environmental awareness. This aligns with our vision of a clean, healthy, and sustainable city," he stated.

He also encouraged the continuation of similar initiatives, stressing that collective activities can have a long-term positive impact on the environment.

A Shared Commitment to a Cleaner Future

Run For Garbage 2026 demonstrated how sports can serve as a powerful medium for delivering social and environmental messages. The collaboration between government institutions, military forces, police, sports communities, and citizens reflected a strong sense of collective responsibility.

The City of Medan hopes the event will continue to grow in the coming years and attract even more participants.

With its strong spirit of unity, Run For Garbage 2026 leaves a clear message: sport, environmental awareness, and solidarity are key pillars for a sustainable urban future. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Saifan Anwar Lubis | EDITOR: Fik Sagala

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