The last Saturday of May, this year on May 25, 2024, was once again dedicated to the popular sports event, the Memorial of Jozef Gabčík in Žilina. This running race, honoring the patron of Žilina paratroopers, attracted a record number of participants. Over 400 athletes and sports enthusiasts came to test their strength and determination and pay tribute to Jozef Gabčík, a native of the small village of Poluvsie in the Žilina region. Jozef Gabčík, a hero of Slovak history, together with his best friend Jan Kubiš, carried out an attack on Reinhard Heydrich, the third-highest-ranking man in Nazi Germany and the acting Reich ruler in the Czech republic during the Second World War.. Their bravery and daring action showed the world that we were not afraid and made a significant mark in history with one of the most notable acts of resistance.
      The running course, composed of various surfaces and approximately 11 kilometers long, stretched from Gabčík's birthplace in Poluvsie to the barracks of the 5th Special Forces Regiment (5th SFR) in Žilina. The race welcomed runners from different countries, including Slovakia, Czech Republic, France, United Kingdom, and United States. As in previous years, participants could use train transport from Žilina to Poluvsie, the starting point, provided by the Slovak National Railway Company (ZSSK), one of the main partners of the event.
      Colonel Peter Žochňák, commander of the 5th SFR, addressed the runners and guests with these words: “The memorial, founded by Dr. Ján Hanák, is not just a sporting event. It is also a celebration of perseverance, courage, and determination – values embodied and lived by Jozef Gabčík. Today’s 11-kilometer run, in his name, is a symbolic expression of our respect to his memory and legacy.”
     Alongside the Memorial of Jozef Gabčík, a Children's Day was held, allowing the "little ones" to enjoy a morning of various activities, including bouncing castles, air rifle shooting, and foam play organized by the Žilina Fire and Rescue Corps. Throughout the event, the atmosphere was enlivened by the musical group AYA and the dance ensemble LIESKA during the race’s opening