Athens Marathon
Marina Vernicos
The Athens Marathon has become an annual institution, going from strength to strength with each year that it is staged.
READING TIME
As long as it takes to eat a slice of watermelon

An Athenian student gets on the right track for the marathon weekend.

The Athens Marathon has become an annual institution, going from strength to strength with each year that it is staged. Participants and spectators gather from all over the world, attracted not only by its obvious sporting and social element but also by the historic ideal it represents. This year approximately 43,000 runners will take part in the races, breaking every previous participation record.

Panathinaiko Stadium - Kallimarmaro

Here are some thoughts and feelings of a young Athenian student taking part in the 10km run as part of the Athens Marathon this Sunday:

When I was younger, I used to go every year to see the athletes who were running and dream of taking part.

I’m so excited about the Marathon, but also a bit nervous, because I’m actually going to be running against other people  for the first time.  This will be a new entry in ‘’my personal notebook of experience”, as well as a way to help raise money and awareness for people, especially children, with some serious illnesses.

Even training for the “Short Road Marathon”, as I call it, is quite a challenge.  As a high school student, time is precious to me. I don’t have a coach or something like that… I prefer doing this all alone. Just finishing will make me very proud of myself.

When I was younger, I used to go every year to see the athletes who were running and dream of taking part. I am expecting a day full of happiness , team spirit and everyone working towards a common aim, knowing that doing what we do will help a little to improve the lives of young people less fortunate than us.”

Athens, Greece

Be there this coming Sunday, November 8th, at 9.00 am! Whether you’re a runner or not, join the Marathon celebration and take part in the events for an unforgettable experience. Don’t forget to share your moments with #athensauthenticmarathon!

Xenia Kominea
Xenia Kominea
High School Student