Authentic Pheidippides Road

One of the most famous long-distance races in the world, with a route of 490 km from Athens to Sparta and back.

Basic Information about the Pheidippides Race

• Distance: 490 kilometers (from Athens to Sparta and back).

• Route: Starting from Athens (Acropolis), passing through various historical landmarks, reaching Sparta, and returning to Athens.

• Duration: Maximum time limit of 98 hours (4 days ).

• Date: Usually held in November

Historical Background

• The race is based on the historical journey of the Athenian messenger Pheidippides, who, in 490 BC, ran from Athens to Sparta to request help against the Persians before the Battle of Marathon.

• According to Herodotus, Pheidippides covered this distance, delivered the message, and returned to Athens, completing a total journey of approximately 500 km.

• The race is longer and more demanding than the Spartathlon, as it includes the return leg, totaling 490 km.

• First Edition: 2011

Route

• The race follows the historic path, starting and finishing at the Acropolis.

• First Leg (Athens - Sparta): Runners cover 246 km, passing through locations such as Corinth, Nemea, Argos, and Mystras, eventually reaching the statue of Leonidas in Sparta.

• Second Leg (Sparta - Athens): The return follows the same route, starting in Sparta and ending in Athens.

Challenges and Difficulties

• Distance and Duration: The total distance of 490 km makes this one of the longest ultramarathons worldwide.

• Time Limits: Runners must complete each phase (e.g., Athens to Sparta) within set time limits or face disqualification.

• Physical Conditions: Competitors endure significant temperature fluctuations (cold at night, heat during the day) and varied terrain (asphalt, hills, and mountainous regions).

• Mental Strain: The extended duration and minimal rest requirements make this race extremely challenging.

Checkpoints

• Numerous checkpoints along the route provide runners with supplies and monitor their timing.

• Runners must pass through these points within specific time limits to continue the race.

Participation Criteria

To be accepted, a runner must have completed at least one of the following under specific time limits:

• Spartathlon: Completion of the 246 km Spartathlon within 36 hours.

• 100-Mile Races: Successful completion of a 100-mile race (161 km) within 22 hours.

• 24-Hour Ultramarathon: A minimum distance of 180 km in 24 hours in an official race.

• 12-Hour Races: Completion of a 12-hour race with a minimum distance of 110 km.

• Long-Distance Events: Other ultramarathons with official time limits demonstrating the runner’s experience.

• It is necessary to present a medical certificate certifying their ability to complete such a demanding race.

Special Features

• Athletic and Cultural Significance: The race is not only an athletic challenge but also a journey through the history and heritage of ancient Greece.

• Limited Participants: Around 50–70 runners participate each year due to the difficulty and strict selection process.

• Dedication and Endurance: Runners must manage exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and time pressure for four consecutive days.

International Recognition

• The Pheidippides Race is regarded as one of the toughest ultramarathons in the world.

• Athletes from numerous countries participate, highlighting its global appeal and historical significance.

Useful Links

• Official Website: www.apollonrunnersclub.gr

Pheidippides Race

The Pheidippides Race is among the most demanding ultramarathons in the world and is deeply tied to ancient Greek history. Here is a full description of the race: