THE GOOD CAUSE: WHY THE JERUSALEM–AMSTERDAM ULTRA RUN MATTERS
Empowering people with diabetes through movement, education, and inspiration.
When Martin Mes began planning his ultrarun from Jerusalem to Amsterdam, he knew he was undertaking a physical and emotional journey that would test every part of his being. But equally important was the mission behind the run – a mission grounded not in personal glory, but in hope, awareness, and long-term impact.
This page explains the deeper purpose of the project: supporting sports education for people living with diabetes and transforming the way society views health, limitations, and possibilities.
A Mission Born from Experience
Martin was diagnosed with diabetes in the mid-1990s. Like many people with the condition, he faced uncertainty about how it would change his life. He could have accepted limitations – but instead, he chose transformation.
Running became his medicine.
Movement became his identity.
Endurance became his message to the world.
Through years of training and countless marathons, Martin discovered that with knowledge and discipline, people with diabetes can challenge the boundaries that society often places upon them.
The Jerusalem–Amsterdam ultrarun was his chance to share this message on a global scale.
This mission is made possible by the generous support of partners and individuals who stand with Holdiarun – you can meet them on our Sponsors page.
Why This Cause Matters
Diabetes is one of the most widespread chronic conditions in the world. Millions face it daily, managing medications, monitoring blood sugar, and navigating physical and emotional challenges. Yet one of the most powerful tools for managing diabetes – physical activity – remains underused, misunderstood, or overlooked.
Martin’s mission aimed to:
Promote Movement as Medicine
Sport and regular physical activity help regulate blood sugar, improve circulation, strengthen the heart, and enhance mental well-being.
Martin wanted his journey to prove that exercise is not only possible with diabetes – it is essential.
Inspire Through Example
Running thousands of kilometers across multiple countries showcased what disciplined training and proper management can achieve.
Martin’s message: “If I can run from Jerusalem to Amsterdam, you can take the first step too.”
Support Education & Awareness
Knowledge is power – especially with diabetes.
Martin aimed to raise funds to create educational initiatives, workshops, and programs that teach:
How to build confidence in movement
Build a Diabetes Sports Center
One of the long-term goals is the development of a dedicated center where people with diabetes can:
- Train safely
- Receive medical guidance
- Access sport-specific coaching
- Participate in group activities
- Learn self-management techniques
Martin’s run was the spark intended to set this vision in motion.
A Run That Became a Symbol
The run was not simply a route from point A to point B.
It was a symbol – of resilience, of hope, and of the belief that chronic illness does not define ability.
Every step taken by Martin represented:
- A parent newly diagnosed with diabetes
- A teenager afraid of their future
- An adult who had given up on physical activity
- A family learning to support a loved one
Thousands followed his journey online and through news updates, finding motivation in his story and strength in his perseverance.
How the Funds Were Used
Supporters were encouraged to sponsor Martin in one of three ways:
- Per kilometer
- Per country crossed
- With a fixed donation
Every contribution supported:
- Educational materials
- Sports coaching for diabetics
- Awareness campaigns
- Equipment and resources for the envisioned sports center
- Workshops and community programs
Transparency was a key principle. Updates were provided regularly through the website, including reports and news about Martin’s progress.
A Cause That Outlives the Run
Although the ultrarun itself had a beginning and an end, the mission continues.
Martin’s story remains a powerful reminder of what is possible when passion and purpose meet.
The Jerusalem–Amsterdam ultrarun continues to inspire:
- Health professionals
- Coaches
- Athletes
- Schools
- Diabetes organizations
- Individuals seeking direction in their fitness journey
Martin wanted to show that the body is capable of far more than we imagine – and that diabetes, when managed with knowledge and determination, does not have to limit one’s dreams.
Join the Movement
Supporting this cause means joining a larger movement – one built on encouragement, knowledge, and empowerment. Whether you are someone living with diabetes, a family member, a supporter, or simply someone inspired by the challenge, your involvement can help bring this mission to life.
The ultrarun was only the beginning.
The real journey is the ongoing effort to help people with diabetes live stronger, healthier, more confident lives.