Crete Marathon

The third edition of the race takes place in the historic centre of Chania and includes the Marathon, 10km and 5km runs and a 2.5km fun run.

The Marathon follows a course of unique natural and monumental beauty hard to find elsewhere. It starts from the municipal market of Chania which during the day is a “temple of gastronomy” with various food shops set in a deep mystic atmosphere that allow you to taste the divine gifts of Cretan nature.

Runners pass the Old Harbour, a monument of great Venetian architecture and one of the most picturesque sites of Crete, and along the coast. The small island of Thodorou is just offshore – on the map it appears as just a dot but is of great ecological importance in preserving the protected species of the Cretan wild goat. It also harbours a rich history of legends. When runners reach Maleme, a traditional Cretan Village, and the Platanias beach resort they make a u-turn and return to Chania.

Crete Marathon is a fiesta in which the city of Chania celebrates the ideals of Olympism and the value of sport and lifelong exercise.

The event is launched on 13 April with a ceremony during which an olive branch “kotinos” is cut from the monumental olive tree of Vouves. The branch is used to make the wreaths bestowed upon the Marathon winners. On 14 April a torch relay takes place in memory of the humanist Metropolitan Irenaeus Galanakis along with an Opening Ceremony which aims to create a warm and celebratory atmosphere for the race.

The 3rd Crete Marathon is organized by the Chania Road Runners Health Club and various local authorities. It is held under the auspices of SEGAS and the Hellenic Association of Mass Popular Sports and Ultra Running. The local community supports the event with unique care and courtesy while the event’s volunteers are adept at making every participant feel unique by offering them famous Greek hospitality.

We are looking forward to welcoming you at the 3rd Crete Marathon and to you joining us in this great feast of sport.