Join the Crete Half Marathon this Year!

A permanent fixture on Crete’s sporting calendar since 2014, with its popularity and the number of participants growing year after year, the Crete Half Marathon has managed to become recognized as one of the most organized and popular running events in Greece, attracting athletes from around the world.

Open to runners of all abilities from novices to international long-distance runners, the next international event will take place on Sunday, 1st October 2023 at Arkalochori.

Now integrated into the official calendar of The Hellenic Athletics Federation, Greece’s governing body for amateur sport since1897, the half marathon’s route has also been officially measured by sporting bodies such as the AIMS and IAAF.

Having become very popular in the racing community with thousands of posted comments praising how well it is organized and promoted, many of the best Greek long distance and leading foreign athletes attend the event.

This includes a 10 km, 5 km and 1 km race for children (6 – 11years) – on a circular course located in the center of the island of Crete, Greece’s largest island, passing through some of the most picturesque villages, olive groves and vineyards in the municipality of Minoa Pediados.

Asides from sportsmanship, the objective behind the Crete Half Marathon is one that is very much based on promoting Crete’s strong cultural identity. Annually televised on all of the nationwide television channels, its mission seeks to promote Crete’s value as a tourist destination along with its culture, history and people, especially highlighting the health benefits of the local Cretan diet.

Long acknowledged as an ally of good health and longevity, the Cretan diet is rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fats and fibre which reduce the risk of serious illnesses, such as Type 2 diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Therefore, an array of wonderful Cretan flavors and products will be offered to the runners such as raisins, fruits, baked goods and local specialties, all lovingly prepared by members of the local community.

On the day, traditional bands will welcome runners finishing the race along with the many local spectators that line the half marathon’s route every year cheering them on, further highlighting Crete’s hospitality and sense of celebration in the best possible way.