Virtual Tribute Run (walk) to Commemorate the Day of Freedom Defenders in Lithuania

On January 13th, 2021, Lithuania will be marking the 30th anniversary of the Day of Freedom Defenders  to honor the memory of the victims of Soviet military aggression in Vilnius in 1991. On that date the Soviet Union used force to overthrow Lithuania's legitimate government, which declared the country's independence on 11 March 1990. The Soviet army attacked Vilnius TV tower, Lithuanian Radio and Television and other strategic infrastructure. During the assault, 14 people were killed and hundreds were injured. These ordinary citizens - the Defenders of Freedom - became a symbol of Lithuania’s victory in fight for freedom.

To remember and mark the 30th anniversary of the Day of Freedom Defenders, the Embassy of Lithuania to Canada invites all Lithuanians living in Canada and friends of Lithuania to participate in the virtual tribute run (or walk) "Road of Life and Death". 

This year, for the first time, we invite you to take part in a virtual run (or walk) by completing a symbolic distance of 9 km. That is the distance from Vilnius TV Tower to Antakalnis Cemetery, where the victims of the events of January 13th are laid to rest.

All the participants who will register and send the photos of their run (or walk) no matter the chosen distance (9K, 5K or 1K) will receive symbolic gifts. The first 50 participants to register will also receive a designated medal (after submission of photos).

When participating in our event we encourage you to pay attention to public health safety recommendations by Canadian authorities due to COVID-19 pandemic that are in the place at the time.

Important information for participants:

1. Register in advance using this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfutXh42zgJLoWDK9C5_3a-fewl2qybWjOe_V3VaKCTtFDjXg/viewform
2. The 9 km run (or walk) should be finished between 9th and 17th of January 2021.
3. You can choose a shorter distance: 1 km (for parents with children) or 5 km (for adults), if more suitable, and still take part in this event.
4. Upload photos of your run (or walk) and a screenshot of your results here and fill in your details. We will create a photo album of all the participants. Please use this link for upload: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSco5RzjI8Eujz7-IW2dkLHNus48nt6-neNkn51E_Ulp1MD8jw/viewform
5. [not mandatory] If you are using any of specific apps (e.g. Strava, Garmin, Apple, etc.), you can record your time and distance and add the screenshot of your run/walk with other photos.
6. Registration is FREE and all participants will receive commemorative souvenirs. The first 50 who will send the details of their finished run (or walk) will also be awarded with a designated medal!

We invite participants of all ages and of any physical fitness, however, please consider your health situation and if needed consult your doctor before taking part in the event.

The “Road of Life and Death” tribute run has been organized in Lithuania every year since 1992 and the Embassy of Lithuania to Canada joined the initiative in 2020. Lithuanians and friends of Lithuania around the globe join the tribute run annually. By running together, we all manifest our commitment to freedom and human dignity.