Marina in her early 20's signed up for a marathon in Tel Aviv[Missing Credit]
Marina’s love for Israel began unexpectedly, during a trip that initially had nothing to do with politics or advocacy.
In her early 20s, seeking a fresh start after a breakup, Marina impulsively signed up for a marathon and chose Tel Aviv as her race destination. At the time, she knew very little about the country beyond what she had read in the media, but what she found on the ground would change her forever.
“I was not very educated about the situation in the Middle East,” she admits. “I was just looking for a marathon to run and booked a flight to Tel Aviv. It was like I went with an open heart and an open mind. And I had the chance to fall in love with the people without ever hearing anything about the country.”
“It’s the right side of history... it’s clear to me”
Her trip turned into an immersion in Israeli culture. She ran the marathon, made lifelong friends and discovered a deep connection to the country’s people.
It wasn’t long before she began studying Hebrew, learning about the Jewish faith and even attempting to convert to Judaism, though she later chose a different path.
Despite not being Jewish, Marina says she “feels like I’m part of the Israeli community with all my friends”.
Her passion for Israel isn't just about visiting or supporting from afar; it’s a core part of who she is and how she engages with the world.
“It’s the right side of history, and when I educate myself on the topic, it’s clear to me,” she says.
She’s also quick to point out that her views come from a place of education and self-reflection.
Marina read books from both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian perspectives to understand the complex history of the region and says, “I tried to educate myself as best as I could. But what I understood is that the people of Israel deserve peace, and they deserve a place in the world, and they deserve to fulfil their dreams without constantly being threatened.”
As an outspoken advocate of Israel, Marina has faced her share of criticism, particularly online. She has been the target of harsh comments and negative reactions, but her resolve remains unshaken.
“When I first started sharing my support for Israel, I took it very personally when people criticised me,” she admits.
“But I’ve learned that for many, it’s just blind hatred. They’re not interested in discussion or education. I’m not here to argue with people who aren’t willing to listen. I just block that negativity and move on.”
Marina recently ran in the Dead Sea Marathon in Israel[Missing Credit]
Despite the criticism, Marina continues to stand firm in her beliefs. She sees her platform as a space for positivity, education and love — values that have driven both her marathon journey and her pro-Israel advocacy.
“I will never stop spreading the love I’ve received from Israel,” she says. “I will continue to stand by what I believe is right. I want to show the world the beauty of Israel, the kindness of its people and the amazing experiences it offers.”
One of her most powerful ways of doing this is through sport.
“Sports is one of the best ways to connect people,” she says. “When you race in Israel, you’re not supporting war or conflict — you’re supporting a small race organiser with a family, someone who is just trying to make a living. And that’s what I want to show the world. Israel is a beautiful country with so much to offer, and racing there helps the community.”
Marina recently ran in the Dead Sea Marathon in Israel, which marked another significant moment in her journey as both an athlete and a Zionist. For her, racing in Israel is a way of not only supporting the local communities but also showcasing the beauty of the country.
Looking ahead, Marina’s journey is far from over. She’s training for a bodybuilding competition and has her sights set on the challenging UltraMan Israel, a gruelling double Ironman race that crosses the country. But no matter where her athletic career takes her, Israel will always be a part of her story.
"I’m dreaming of racing the UltraMan Israel,” she says with excitement. "It’s one of my dream events and I’m determined to make it happen. Whenever there’s a half marathon in Israel, you can be sure I’ll be there at the starting line."
