Few people have stories as remarkable and inspiring as ninety-year-old Naomi Pass. A survivor of the Holocaust, she fled the Israeli Army with her family at a young age, yet continues to run marathons and encourage others to participate in physical activity. Pass is a prime example of what it means to lead a life of resilience and courage, regardless of one’s age or circumstances.
Pass was born in Romania in 1929 to Holocaust survivors. Her parents, who had survived atrocities, felt compelled to move to Israel at the end of World War II. In 1948, when Pass was 18, they left Romania and arrived in Palestine. When Israel declared its independence the same year, Pass’s family wanted their daughter to join the war effort and to fight for their new home. Pass, however, wanted to focus on her studies and was against military service, so she and her family fled to France.
While in France, Pass decided to pursue a degree in physical education. During her studies, she became interested in running and eventually took part in the Paris Marathon. In 2011, Pass felt brave and confident enough that she chose to run in the Jerusalem Marathon. That same year, she joyfully completed her first marathon, as well as several others in the following years.
Now, at ninety years old, Pass is still running in marathons and pushing herself to stay physically active. However, she does not do it for herself. Rather, she strives to inspire the younger generation to invest in their fitness. Pass is a true example of what it means to remain physically and mentally strong throughout life.
Pass’s story is a light in the darkness of any situation, no matter how difficult. Despite her past and the dangers she’s faced, Pass found her passion in running and does not let anything stop her from continuing to pursue it. Her courage and determination is an inspiration to us all.