Solutions to win: Resident of frontline Ochakiv runs route in Ukraine’s state emblem shape

In early February this year, 33-year-old media specialist Vsevolod Sevastianov ran a trident-shaped route in Ochakiv, Mykolaiv region. The route was designed as a symbol of strength, steadfastness, and the ongoing struggle for the independence of the Ukrainian people.

This was reported by Suspilne, citing Rubryka.

What is the problem?

Ochakiv, a frontline town in Mykolaiv region, has endured near-daily shelling since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion.

Vsevolod Sevastianov, who now lives in Ochakiv, continues to motivate others through physical activity despite the challenges. While he doesn't always have time for long runs—due to the constant threat of air raids, shells, and drones reaching the city in minutes—he remains committed to his work.

"A little physical activity, not necessarily running, is an opportunity to take care of your own physical and psychological health. The main thing is to do what your health and well-being allow, so that it is beneficial, not vice versa," Sevastianov says.

What is the solution?

In Ochakiv, the town where he grew up, 33-year-old media professional Vsevolod Sevastianov ran a trident-shaped route in early February 2025. He did so as a symbol of strength, steadfastness, and the ongoing struggle for the independence of the Ukrainian people.

"I dedicated it to all the defenders of my city and our country, and to those who gave their lives for our freedom," Sevastianov said of the run.

How does it work?

The total distance of the trident-shaped route in Ochakiv was about five kilometers, and Sevastianov completed it in 40 minutes.

He traditionally runs alone, as this is how he creates most of his designs on the map. Before the run, he warms up to prevent injury and takes time to rest afterward.

Sevastianov has been running since 2018. He shares that his runs have become more sporadic and irregular recently due to health issues and other factors. However, for him, running is not just a sport—it is also a way to convey important messages.

"One of the key running achievements of all time is setting a Ukrainian record with the #CreativeRunDvizh project, which is the largest collection of running drawings on city streets," says the runner.

Launched in 2018, the #CreativeRunDvizh project was originally designed to engage runners in creativity. Over time, however, it became more personalized.

Sevastianov uses running routes in the form of drawings to draw attention to fundraising efforts and social issues. Over the years, he has created several notable routes, including:

• A route in the form of the 33 letters of the Ukrainian alphabet for the Day of Ukrainian Writing and Language
• A route in the shape of a dog to support the UAnimals initiative and the Antares dog unit
• A route in the form of a prosthesis to show support for the Superhumans Center

The project's collection includes about 60 drawings, each varying in complexity, length, and theme, according to the initiator. Each of them has a unique vision of its own. The routes in the form of numbers for Ukraine's Independence Day, as well as themed drawings for the January 1 run, have already become traditional.