Sport is not only about competition. It is also a space for equal opportunities, confidence and inclusion.

With this in mind, Europe House joined forces with Women Power Cup to take part in the 22nd edition of the Wizz Air Skopje Marathon through the “Wear the Change” initiative – standing alongside women and girls who take part in sport, compete, inspire others and constantly push their limits.

The joint marathon participation was part of the activities with which Europe House marked the European Week of Sport, which began on 23 September and brought a range of sports activities and initiatives across the country, highlighting that sport is for everyone – regardless of age, gender or ability.

More Than a Race

Running a marathon takes endurance, discipline and determination. But sport is about more than what happens at the starting or finishing line. It is about building healthy habits, making a commitment, establishing a routine and choosing to make sport part of everyday life.

The Europe House team and athletes from Women Power Cup in Kochani came together at the Skopje Marathon to highlight the importance of greater inclusion and gender equality in sport. We want to encourage more girls and women to discover sport as a space for personal growth, connection and new achievements.

Women Power Cup brought the energy of women’s sport, movement and female strength – both on the field and in society. And through “Wear the Change” – an initiative of the Delegation of the European Union and the Europe House network – we create space for dialogue, new ideas and progress towards greater gender equality.

Equality Through Sport

At the country’s largest sporting event, a record 15,050 participants from 63 countries took part this year across the marathon, half-marathon and “EU for Sport” relay race. Among those who completed the marathon, 77 were women, compared with 518 men.

These figures show that women are still underrepresented in sport, but greater participation can help make women’s presence more visible and encourage others to follow.

Because in a marathon, as in any other sport, every step matters. And progress happens when we choose to keep moving forward.

Through its year-round “Wear the Change” initiative and its participation in the Skopje Marathon, Europe House once again underlined the importance of staying active, supporting women in sport and creating a space where everyone has the chance to participate, compete and grow.

Join in. Take the next step forward. Wear the Change.