Courtesy of Elias Lefas and Andreas Papakonstantinou – Tourette Photography.
The Authentic Marathon Swim race is rescheduled for 2020 – 2,500 years after when it first started in Artemision, Greece. The authentic marathon swimming route, first completed by Skyllias together with his daughter Hydna, will now be revived by combining the historical legend with contemporary swimmers.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, The Authentic Marathon Swim changed its date to September 4th – 6th 2020 and will includes 800m, 1.5 km, 3 km, and 10 km races held in Pefki, Evia in the Municipality of Istiaia-Edipsos.
With public health concerns first and foremost in mind, the organizers are working towards the event’s smooth and safe operation.
The discounted Early Bird – Refund offer is available until June 30th. Swimmers can register with a 20% discount for the 10 km race with additional discounts for the 3 km and 1.5 km routes. The 800m children’s race is free. Refunds will be available until July 31st. Registration is here.
Swimmers over 18 years old can participate in the 10 km marathon swim. Swimmers over 14 years of age can participate in the 3 km and 1.5 km swims. Children between 9 and 13 years old can participate in the 800m swim.
The course will be held at the Straits of Artemision where the average water temperature is 23-26°C and conducted under the auspices of the Hellenic Swimming Federation according to FINA regulations.
Race director Nikos Gemelos says, “As Greeks, we must always remember our history and try to keep it unchanged over the years. Marathon swimming regains its special significance and position. We provide swimmers from Greece and abroad with an opportunity to visit Artemision and experience the authentic marathon swimming, while offering them absolute safety and a unique route. Our priority is always the health of all athletes. Therefore, we will take care of this by complying with all necessary protocols.”
The event has joined the Global Swim Series.
For more information on the Authentic Marathon Swim, visit www.authenticmarathonswim.com, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.
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