Members of the elite police Yassam unit are infamous among many Judea and Samaria Jews for their involvement in the expulsion of Jews from their homes. However, next month Yassam police and civilians from Judea and Samaria will race side by side, during the annual Talmonim race.
The race brings together civilians, policemen and women, professional runners, Defense Ministry workers and others for a run through the hills of the Binyamin region, south of Samaria. The race is unique in completely separating male and female contestants, in accordance with Jewish laws of modesty.
Many religious Jews choose to take part in the race. One of last year's winners was a religious mother of ten, who ran wearing a skirt.
The course along which runners travel is also unique. The path winds through the Jewish towns of Talmon, Horesh Yaron, and Neria. The race takes place in memory of Talmon resident Roi Arbel, a 29-year-old father of five who was murdered by terrorists in 2004.
Sportswear companies SHVOONG and New Balance are sponsoring the event.
The race will be held on Friday, April 23. The women's race will begin at 8:00 AM. and the men's race will begin 45 minutes later. A prize ceremony will take place at 10:30 AM.
There will be a special two-kilometer run for children as well.