Hundreds of runners took part in the 5th International Rhodes Marathon, a race that follows a route next to the endless blue of the Aegean and the medieval walls of the capital of the Dodecanese.

The Marathon is organized by the South Aegean Region and the local department of Greek Athletics Federation SEGAS, with the support of the Municipality of Rhodes and the Rhodes Hotels Association.

It is fully accredited by AIMS, the Association of International Marathons and apart from the Marathon and the Half Marathon, 5K, a 10K and a 1000m kids race, are available providing more choices for the runners.

All races started from and ended in the center of the city at Eleftherias square, passing by the main attractions of Rhodes, on an entirely car-free route.

“The International Rhodes Marathon promotes Greece and its beauty globally, contributes to the increase of tourism flows to the country, extends the tourism season, promotes Rhodes and the South Aegean region and benefits the economy and local community,” Greece’s Tourism Minister Elena Kountoura said in a statement.

The “Roads to Rhodes” Marathon is organized by the South Aegean Region and the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS) EAS Dodecanese branch, with the support of the Rhodes Municipality and the Rhodes Hoteliers Association, under the auspices of GNTO.

“It is a leading sports event… taking place in one of the most beautiful islands in Greece,” said South Aegean Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism Marietta Papavasiliou.

“It also enhances the destination’s fame and attracts athletes and visitors from all over the world… By joining forces we can achieve many things,” she added.

Source: greece.greekreporter.com