About 8,000 Cyclists Take Part in Sovev Kinneret Ride

About 8,000 cyclists took part in the Sovev Kinneret ride on Saturday morning, November 14, setting out from Tzemach Beach on the southern shore of Lake Kinneret. Families, children and competitive riders joined the event, which went ahead after a one-week postponement over the weather forecast. Riders could choose a full circuit of the lake, a half circuit or a 10-kilometer route for children and families. Roads used for the ride were closed to motor vehicles. Jordan Valley Regional Council head Idan Greenbaum said participants ranged in age from six to eighty and that the event commemorated Yossi Dor. Greenbaum said: “The entire north is yearning for visitors.” Omer Ramon won the men’s competitive race in 1 hour, 25 minutes and 25 seconds after breaking away from a group of five riders. Nadav Raisberg finished second, 1 minute and 2 seconds behind him, and Ido Dagan placed third. Israel Cycling Federation chair Daphna Lang described elite cyclists riding alongside families, children and athletes from different parts of Israeli society. The Jordan Valley Regional Council initiated the event with the Kinneret Cities Association and the Israel Cycling Federation; Shvoong, part of RGE, produced it. Activities began on Friday afternoon at Beit Gabriel with a market featuring Israeli produce and a performance by singer Dikla. Shvoong chief executive Guy Sharon said postponing the ride for participants’ safety had proved worthwhile, with favorable conditions when it took place.