In 2008 Skai Olympus Marathon, 478 athletes from 18 countries participated in the race and 85% of them crossed the finish line within the 10-hour time limit. The Spanish Jessed Hernandez, won the race in 4:33:37, setting a new course record. In the women category the famous French Corinne Favre, finished in 5:29:57 setting a new record as well.
“Skai Olympus Marathon” is held annually on the last Sunday of every June. It takes place in Greece, on the famous Mt. Olympus, the mountain of the mythical gods of ancient Greece. It follows the footsteps of the ancient pilgrims as they accented every summer to the high peaks, to sacrifice and honor Zeus as their supreme God.
The course of the race is 44km, and the total altitude gain is +3170m. The race starts at the archaeological site of Dion (alt. 3m). It crosses almost the entire eastern face of the mountain, passing just below the highest peaks. The race ends at the town of Litohoro (alt. 250m) on the foothills of the mountain. The athletes have the opportunity to live a very unique experience in a very unique mountain with unsurpassed natural beauty.
Skai Olympus Marathon is organized by “Marathonios Olympou” a non-profit organization aiming to promote the uniqueness of the mountain. The country’s first national park (1938) was declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO (1982). “SKAI” TV broadcasters is the main sponsor, and the event is also supported by the prefecture of Pieria and the municipalities of Dion and Litohoro.
For more information visit the website: www.olympus-marathon.com