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Ελληνικά 
Τhe iconic event returns to the beach, renewed, with record participation, an international flair, and a rich program!
When runners from every corner of the world—even from the exotic Saint Barthélemy in the Lesser Antilles—lace up their shoes to run along Athens' southern coastal front, something magical happens. The Poseidon Half Marathon and its parallel races are back on Sunday, April 27, more vibrant, international, and refreshed than ever before, breaking all participation records with over 6,000 runners from 48 countries!
Now in its 16th edition, the event impresses not only with numbers. Participants will run alongside the waves, with the vast blue of the Saronic Gulf as their natural inspiration. The newly designed routes, starting from the Athletic and Cultural Center of the Municipality of Palaio Faliro, wind through the coastal areas of Palaio Faliro, Alimos, and Kallithea, passing key landmarks such as Flisvos Marina, the historic Averof Battleship, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, Batis Beach, and Alimos Marina. The organizing committee has secured official course measurements for both the Half Marathon and the 5K race, certified by WA/AIMS in accordance with guidelines from the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS), of which the event has been a full member since last year.
This year's Poseidon Half Marathon program spans five unique races, catering to the full spectrum of running preferences—from seasoned athletes to those taking their very first steps into the world of running. At the heart of the event is, of course, the 21.1 km Half Marathon, while the Quarter Marathon (10.5 km) along the same scenic route offers a taste of a larger race for those seeking a challenge. For fans of shorter, high-energy runs, there's the 5K Road Race, and for those who prefer a gentler pace, a 5K Power Walking option is also available. Special emphasis is given to the Charity Run (1,000 or 2,000 meters), supporting the work of the Panhellenic Association for Adapted Activities “ALMA”, which helps children with intellectual disabilities and autism. Lastly, for our younger friends up to 12 years old, the 1,000-meter Children’s Race provides a joyful and safe running experience of their own.
As every year, Athens’ first historic Half Marathon, which continues to grow in strength, unfolds a multifaceted action plan alongside the races. The National Children's Drawing Contest, open to kids aged 4–14, brings color and imagination to the message of participation: "Running is fun, running brings joy! Running with friends is even more joyful!" The winning artworks are currently displayed at the race’s registration hub. Throughout the race routes, music becomes a companion to the runners. From jazz and funk to folk and rhythmic percussion, the initiative "Music and Musicians by the Sea" brings energy to the steps of both amateur and professional athletes.
At the same time, the Poseidon Half Marathon delivers a strong environmental message with the campaign "ECO Environment: A Way of Life!", promoting recycling and water conservation in collaboration with the Institute Team for the World – Environmental Alliance 2004+. And since health is the ultimate goal, the motto "Run & Walk. Give Value to Your Steps!" connects the Poseidon event with the Hellenic Diabetes Association and municipal health services of Palaio Faliro, raising awareness about diabetes and obesity.
On the occasion of the event, Mayor of Palaio Faliro Yiannis Fostiropoulos shared:
"With great joy and pride, we welcome the Poseidon Half Marathon to Palaio Faliro—a well-established institution that promotes the values of sportsmanship, participation, and fair play. April 27 will be a celebration for everyone: for the athletes giving their best, the volunteers supporting the event, the families encouraging their children to participate in sports, and all citizens who come out to cheer for strength, effort, and passion. The Poseidon route, framed by the sea and the Athenian Riviera, is one of the most remarkable in the country. It’s a race that measures not only kilometers, but also feelings, images, and human stories."
Mayor of Alimos Andreas Kondylis added:
"The 16th Poseidon Half Marathon has become a magnet for both Greek and international runners. With a rich and diverse program and a strong spirit of inclusion, it offers everyone—amateurs and pros, young and old—the chance to come together as a joyful community united by fitness and natural beauty, and to enjoy a truly special day! Sports unite us. Sports are play, joy for all! This race fights inertia, stress, isolation, and loneliness. It becomes a celebration of movement, freedom, companionship, contribution, and excitement! We are all proud of this festival of sport and joy in the South!"
Finally, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Kostas Liapis, emphasized:
"Now in its 16th year, the Poseidon Half Marathon is not just a race—it is a multidimensional event that inspires and unites. It’s a landmark in the life of the city, combining sports with culture, environmental awareness, and the promotion of an active and healthy lifestyle. It brings together people of all ages, nationalities, and fitness levels, highlighting the deeper values that unite local communities, institutions, and citizens. It is a great honor for us in the organizing committee to see this event evolve into a lasting institution with strong social impact and global appeal."
The event is held under the auspices of the Region of Attica, the Municipalities of Palaio Faliro and Alimos, the Hellenic Tourism Organization, the World Health Organization – Healthy Cities, the Hellenic Diabetes Association, and the Hellenic Police.
