Spyros Gianniotis & The European Swimming Elite At The Authentic Swimming Marathon

Days are counting down for the historic race The Authentic Marathon Swim, which revives at Artemision 2,500 years later. Following the example of Skylias and Hydna, the first ever-recorded long-distance swimmers according to ancient Greek historian Herodotus, participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the authentic marathon swimming route, on September 4-6, 2020.

The noteworthy event will be honored by the presence of the silver Olympic medalist, world champion in open water swimming, and a member of the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, Spyros Gianniotis. Prominent personalities of international swimming will take part in The Authentic Swimming Marathon. Among them, the Hungarian ultra-marathon swimmer, Oceans Seven holder and member of the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame, Attila Manyoki, European champion George Arniakos, Greek champions Dimitris Negris, Andreas Georgakopoulos, Stellina Aplanti, Ilektra Lebl, the swimming champion George Skotadis who competes wearing the colors of the Dutch national team, English Channel marathon swimmer Giannis Kotsiopoulos and swimming champion Nikolaos Simantiras.

In the context of his presence at the event, the silver Olympic medalist in open water swimming, Spyros Gianniotis, stated: “Marathon swimming is once again at the forefront with a historic race. Through our presence, we honor history by reviving the legendary achievements of Skylias and Hydna at the straits of Artemision. I call on all swimmers, regardless of their level and ability, to embrace this effort and experience the legend, while safely enjoying the blue-green waters of Northern Evia”.

Respectively, the Hungarian ultra-marathon swimmer, Attila Manyoki stated on the occasion of his participation in the race: “Open water is my passion. I must fight against nature and also my inner fears and limits. The sea is open to everybody. The only thing that is important is how much you want it. It’s an ancient sport with 2,500 years of history that revives in this event. I will jump in the sea and follow its tradition and great history”.

In the afternoon of Saturday, September 5, the action will begin with the 3km and 1.5km open water swimming races. Respectively, on the morning of Sunday, September 6, the event will culminate with the revival of the authentic 10km marathon swimming route, while at the same time the 800m children’s race will be taking place. All swimming routes will be executed with absolute safety at Pefki, Evia, of the Municipality of Istiaia - Edipsos. The Authentic Marathon Swim will be held with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, according to FINA regulations.

Entries for the event are underway and interested parties can participate by completing the available form. The event, always prioritizing the participants themselves, offers a refund of their registration costs until July 31.

Accommodation packages at the Municipality of Istiaia-Edipsos The Authentic Swimming Marathon collaborates with hotels in the region, with the aim of revitalizing the sports tourism industry of Northern Evia and strengthening the Greek tourism product. Up to this point, this year’s event is supported with special offers and prices starting from 40 euros, by the following hospitality sponsors: Maria Louiza Apartments, Hotel 40 Platania, Altamar Hotel, Ellaeon Throesma, Galini Hotel Edipsos, Ilios Studios, Villa Anastasia, Aenaon Studios, Aktaion Hotel, Alex Spa Hotel, Arethousa Hotel, Artemis Rooms Pefki, Evia Dream, Galini Hotel Pefki, Irene Studios, Island, Kochili Apartments, Lito Hotel, Papadioti Apartments.

The Authentic Marathon Swim remains in contact with the state bodies. With its main priority on ensuring public health, organizers work for the event’s smooth and safe operation.

The event will be co-organized by the Municipality of Istiaia-Edipsos and Active Media Group.

The Authentic Marathon Swim has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2020 program of the European Commission and is held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.

The event has joined the swimming community Global Swim Series (GSS).

Official Clothing Partner: Luanvi

Official Sports Supplier: Mosconi

Official Rental Partner: Avance

Athletic Partners: Red Swim Academy, Swim Academy, Swimmingclub.gr

Assisted by: Lifeguard Patrol

Sports Production: Active Media Group

Hashtag: #authenticmarathonswim

Photo Credit: Elias Lefas