A message of independence and perseverance
Hasto said young people should approach challenges with idealism, courage and independence. He linked the Soekarno Run to the culture of the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), describing it as a way to encourage confidence, independent thought and service to the country.
He also called for creativity and a command of science and technology, saying young people should contribute across different areas of life. The spirit of self-reliance, or berdikari, associated with Indonesia's first president, Sukarno, also known as Bung Karno, should remain part of the younger generation's outlook, he said.
East Java PDI-P Deputy Chairman Eri Cahyadi connected that message to the experience of running: pursuing a goal, persevering and reaching the finish line. Beyond encouraging exercise, he said, the event was intended to nurture courage and determination and carry forward the values of the country's founders.
Eri said the party was also providing opportunities for young people to develop through soccer and volleyball competitions, alongside the Soekarno Run and Soekarno Cup. "We want the youth to have a place," he said.
Blitar's first edition draws 4,200 participants
Organizing committee chair Rera Alvi Syahrina and PDI-P DPP Chairman Djarot Saiful Hidayat said this was the first Soekarno Run in Blitar and that its 4,200 participants made it the event's largest edition.
Blitar Regent Rijanto also cited a committee tally of about 4,200 participants, saying registration had been closed. "Almost 5,000 actually, but we had to close registrations," he said.
The organizing committee reported 135 athletes from outside the city. Participants came from regions including Kalimantan, Sulawesi and East Nusa Tenggara (NTT).
Rera said runners had a choice of 5K and 10K categories. Both routes passed through the Istana Gebang area, while the 10K course also passed Bung Karno's grave, known as Makam Bung Karno.
Heroes' Day program and local business expectations
The run was organized ahead of Heroes' Day, or Hari Pahlawan, on November 10. Djarot said it was intended to express the values of sacrifice, hard work and perseverance.
The program also included a "Soekarno Way" talk show with Hasto at Pendopo Ronggo Hadi Negoro on the evening of Saturday, November 7, 2026. Held before the main race, the discussion explored Bung Karno's life.
Djarot said those scheduled to attend the run included Hasto and Ganjar Pranowo, along with musician and party cadre Once Mekel and House of Representatives member Ronny Talapessy.
Organizers expected the event to benefit Blitar's economy. Rera said several local accommodations were reported fully booked for November 7-8 ahead of the race.
