The idea of the Limassol Marathon to become an institution and the goal of the 14th event
this year to exceed all expectations is developed in an interview by the Director of the Limassol Marathon that Spyros Spyrou is something from simple organization. People with physical and mental strength from 60
different countries, different cultures and habits meet in two days, get to know each other, share experiences, run and finish with the background of the fulfillment of a charitable purpose. This year's Limassol marathon is dedicated to the legend Stylianos Kyriakidis. & Nbsp;
How did the idea for the organization of the Limassol Marathon come about? < / div>
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It all started in the 80's when as a student in England I happened to see in the news some pictures from the London Marathon which they impressed me and remained etched in my memory forever. The years passed and at some point I had the lot as a member of the Municipal Council to represent the mayor of Limassol in the 3rd Limassol Marathon. It was I remember an event without people and with few runners. Then the images from the London Marathon came to my mind again and the idea of organizing a similar sporting event was born for the first time. After research and study, I went to the then mayor of Limassol, the president of and other bodies of the city, presenting my idea to them. Although everyone was positive, someone had to take responsibility and realize this great vision. I immediately offered to take on this role and everyone trusted me. From then until today I have to say that we went through concussions. The economic
crisis, the organizational difficulties but also the reactions from the citizens for the closing of the roads were just some of them. However, we did not give up and in the end the bet was won, although we still have a long way to go so that the Limassol Marathon
meets the high expectations we set from the beginning.
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What makes OPAP Limassol Marathon stand out in relation to other marathons?
OPAP Limassol Marathon stood out < from the rest of the Marathons as it is the largest and most massive sports event with an international reputation. It is the only sporting event that manages to gather more than 15 thousand runners with 4 thousand of them coming from 60 different countries. If you ask why we stand out internationally. Here our country makes the difference. The nice weather is the sun that floods Cyprus in March compared to the gloom in most European countries, the flat route along the beautiful coastal front of Limassol, the traditional hospitality and the perfect organization always focusing on the experience of the participating runner are some of our great strengths. Of course, none of this would have been possible without the long-term support of OPAP, which is also the Grand Sponsor of the Limassol Marathon this year.
There is room for charity offer and awareness messages in a Marathon?
Every mass event is an opportunity for public awareness and charity. In fact, this has become a tradition in the international marathon movement. A tradition
that started from the old Marathon runners who, in addition to being physical, also had
great mental strength. One of them was the Cypriot marathon champion Stelios Kyriakidis to whom the 14th OPAP Limassol Marathon is dedicated. Stelios Kyriakidis was the first among many later to use his charisma and distinctions as a means of charity. In fact, let me say that solidarity with fellow human beings is the highest good. And when in a society this happens on a mass scale then miracles happen. A common goal always unites and gives strength. & Nbsp;
In a celebration of sports like the Limassol Marathon the prizes come secondarily when it attracts athletes from all countries with different cultures and backgrounds but have a common hobby.
Your question is absolutely correct. We found out and confirmed it.
Runners from both Cyprus and abroad do not run for prizes, let alone money. They are primarily moved by the participation and the feeling of achieving a goal that, as I said before for many, is beyond their limits. The finish for the runners is the biggest reward. & Nbsp;
0 The 14th Limassol Marathon is therefore dedicated to Stylianos Kyriakidis
< div> whose rich action was written on the webculminating in the 1946 Boston Marathon What was the impetus for dedicating this legend?
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Stelios Kyriakidis was a athlete who grew up and became a man in Limassol. Today he is an international figure in the field of Marathon Roads.
Because this legend was not only a runner but as I said before he was the man who married the Marathon Road with charity and social action
making the purpose of life. He was an innovator and pioneer in the field as he was the first runner who measured his time with a personal watch and adjusted his speed while planning his route and
performance. A compatriot of ours, a fellow countryman who became an international legend
remaining unknown to most of us. Dedicating the 14th OPAP Limassol Marathon to Stelios Kyriakidis, we not only honor him but also give the opportunity to the younger generations to get to know him and to be exemplified by his work.
Could the Limassol Marathon be included institutionally as a pillar in the context of thematic tourism promoted?
Absolutely. The Limassol Marathon is in my opinion the most successful example in sports tourism, proving in practice that if what we do
has a level and impact then in other thematic areas of tourism we could have positive results. / div>