Moldovan champion Ivan Siuris at the PATRAS HALF MARATHON
Preparations for the Patras Half Marathon continue at a feverish pace. As the eagerly awaited race on April 7th approaches, news of the first international participants gradually emerge.
Undoubtedly, the presence of Ivan Siuris stands out. The winner of the 1st Patras Half Marathon will also run in this year’s race.
The Moldovan champion responded to the promise he made last year that we would see him competing again in Patras, as he was completely satisfied both with the course and the conditions of the race and the hospitality.
His time last year was 01:06:23, while it is worth noting his recent performances in the Half Marathon in Seville where on January 28th he achieved a time of 1:04:09 and in the Marathon in the same city on February 18th a time of 2:13:34. In the coming days, other significant participations from Greece and abroad will be announced.
Olympia Odos engages in significant sponsorship activities, contributing to various events. Therefore, the company supports the 2nd Patras Half Marathon as a Silver Sponsor, actively endorsing the event’s vision to internationally showcase the potentials and dynamics of the Western Greece region.
Olympia Odos “paves the way” for the seamless participation of dozens of athletes who will compete in the Patras Half Marathon, originating from cities east of Patras.
Olympia Odos is one of the most important national strategic projects for the development of the Peloponnese, Western Greece, and Epirus. It connects the three regions and the Greek capital with the most important gateway of Greece to Europe, the port of Patras.
The new highway offers an upgraded and safer connection to the southwestern part of Greece, specifically to and from the port of Patras, archaeological sites, and tourist areas, strengthening exports and agricultural production.
Olympia Odos designs and implements strategies to raise awareness and promote road safety, such as:
- hosting and touring schools and lecturing students at Traffic Management Centers and highway facilities,
- distributing printed and informational material (reflective vests, LEA brochure, brochure for driving in tunnels, etc.),
- collaborating with organizations and institutes for road safety (Panos Mylonas Road Safety Institute),
- participating in conferences on road safety.
The supermarket chain “Andrikopoulos” with its longstanding sponsorship of various events, stands by as the silver sponsor of the 2nd Patras Half Marathon, actively demonstrating the company’s support for showcasing the potential and dynamics of Western Greece to host major athletic venues.
Andrikopoulos SA shares and embodies eco friendly policies in its management, launces campaigns and empowers environmental and social awareness such as:
- It packages and recycles all paper and plastic packaging materials it uses.
- It provides battery recycling bins (AFIS) in all its stores for the convenience of consumers and employees.
- It promotes the recycling of specific light bulbs by installing special collection bins in selected stores.
- It supports the philanthropic efforts of the Holy Metropolis of Patras by placing food donation baskets in its stores, which are donated to fellow citizens in need when filled.
- It participates in social events in the broader area, supporting them with product sponsorships and other donations.
- It collects plastic caps in all its stores, which are then donated for the construction of wheelchairs.
- It recycles used cooking oil using specialized bins.
The company’s roots trace back to 1975 when brothers Vasilis and Kostas Andrikopoulos opened a traditional grocery store on Trion Navarchon Street in Patras. In 1984, the second store opened near Marouda Square on Karatza Street. Today the company operates 14 stores throughout Patras.
VIKOS natural mineral water actively participates in events that promote noble competition in sports and invests in initiatives that foster teamwork, effort, and athletic virtue.
Through its presence in running events, VIKOS natural mineral water encourages athletic activity and promotes a healthy lifestyle. With every sip of VIKOS natural mineral water, athletes experience the refreshment and energy needed to face the challenges of the race.
The involvement of the VIKOS company in the Patras Half Marathon is part of the broader corporate responsibility program, which is showcased on the company’s website, revealing its environmental and social footprint.
Health, sports, and life messages were conveyed during the open dialogue titled “Running and Health: Tips for both seasoned and new runners” held yesterday at the My Way hotel.
Before the start of the seminar, greetings were given by the Deputy Regional Governor of Western Greece, Charalambos Bonanos, the Deputy Mayor of Sports of the Municipality of Patras, Takis Petropoulos, the Deputy Regional Governor of Public Health and President of the Medical Association of Patras, Anna Mastorakou, and Dr. Panagiotis Trigas, a nephrologist and scientific director of the TRIGAS NEPHROS chronic dialysis unit. Additionally, there was a recorded message from Pyrros Dimas, Olympic weightlifting champion.
Prior to the discussion, the official promo trailer of the Patras Half Marathon was presented, receiving positive reactions from the audience.
The discussion was divided into three parts: the first part focused on topics relevant to all new runners, the second part delved into more specialized topics, and the third part addressed questions from the audience.
Dr. Georgios Stavroulakis, MD, PhD, FESC, a cardiologist with expertise in sports cardiology, opened the discussion by talking about pre-athletic screening and how exercise in general, and running in particular, benefit the body. In the second part, he discussed signs that can help prevent a heart episode and the relationship between intense exercise and heart health.
Theodore Betsos, a physical therapist and orthopedic therapist, addressed the checks one should undergo regarding the musculoskeletal system and the body areas that may be more sensitive. He also discussed the causes of common injuries and suggested preventive measures.
Dimitris Theodoridis, coordinator of medium-long distances at the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS), provided practical training advice, differentiating approaches based on age and initial goals. He spoke about factors influencing performance, the value of ergometric control, and provided specific guidance for the Half Marathon and the last month of preparation.
Dimitris Theodorakakos, a Greek marathon champion and world cup winner in mountain running, talked about how a new runner can maintain consistency in training and stay motivated for continuous improvement. He recommended key training sessions and pivotal points in the training period, combining experiential and scientific data. He also discussed the management of pre-competitive stress.
Irene Babaroutsi, PhD clinical dietitian and sports nutritionist, gave basic nutritional guidelines, discussed weight control errors, and provided useful dietary advice for intense training periods, the final week, and the necessary nutritional support during the race.
Sofia Riga, a Greek marathon champion and participant in the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, shared her experiences regarding her early steps in running, race strategy, handling stress, unforeseen situations, and managing negative thoughts during the race.
Dr. Stavroulakis, Ms. Babaroutsi, and Mr. Betsos answered questions from the audience, enriching the event with direct communication and interactivity.
The event was moderated by Nikos Polias, the technical director of the Patras Half Marathon and a marathon champion.
Several fans of classical sports, representatives from the SEGAS Northern Peloponnese, and local sports clubs attended the event.
The main sponsor of the event was the TRIGAS NEPHROS Chronic Dialysis Unit, and the supporter was the My Way Hotel & Events.
The success of the seminar was significant, and now, properly prepared, we look forward to the 2nd Patras Half Marathon on Sunday, April 7th.
In Patras, on a flat and beautiful course that unfolds the city’s history, fans of running will experience a race filled with energy and athleticism.
Starting from the heart of the city, King George Square, we swiftly transition from the urban fabric to the coastal front. There, running parallel to the waves with a view of the Patras Gulf, we relish in the natural beauty and admire all the historical landmarks along the route. Returning and having immersed ourselves in performances, we cross the finish line once again in the heart of Patras, feeling the pulse of the city welcoming us.
On Sunday, April 7th, Patras becomes the common destination for all fans of running.
On Sunday, April 7th, in Patras, we all run together in a race full of energy, movement, and athletic spirit!
The Volton, a dynamic and purely Greek company in the Energy sector, announced its golden sponsorship of the Patras Half Marathon. Through this action, the company reaffirms its commitment to social responsibility and contribution to the creation of a healthy and dynamic social environment.
Volton is a member of a powerful business Group that operates in shipping, telecommunications, construction, media, and energy. Its customers are the driving force behind every innovation. The company continues to design “clean” and “smart” products and services, offering unique advantages to each customer. At the Volton Shop in Patras (24 Agiou Andreou Street), information is provided about energy solutions that cater to the needs of both households and businesses.
My Way Hotel & Events announces its golden sponsorship of the Patras Half Marathon, showcasing its commitment to supporting the local community and its belief in the significance of sports tourism for local economy and development.
Located just a stone’s throw away from the heart of Patras’ historic and commercial center, My Way Hotel & Events stands prominently at the seaside entrance of the city, caressed by the waters of the Patraikos Gulf. Offering four-star hospitality, it caters to a diverse audience of visitors.
With 63 exemplary spacious rooms and 2 refined suites, it has quickly established itself as the favorite city hotel with unbeatable views, a strategic location, and versatile amenities. All balconies overlook the sea, making it the ambitious “next day” of a comprehensive redevelopment of familiar hotel facilities that have been wisely utilized, as befits them.
Overlooking Othonos-Amalias and the pier, extending to the iconic St. Andrew and the Plaza, My Way tempts tourists of every category, as well as the residents of Patras themselves. It embodies the absolute definition of “value for money.” The breakfast is rich and satisfying, emphasizing exquisite local products. The kitchen and room service operate all day, always ready to meet every demand. Examples of the quality of room equipment include Cocomat beds and mattresses, ensuring thoughtful rest and comfort, along with a well-stocked mini-bar.
My Way Hotel & Events features an extensive conference hall for up to 400 people, hosting various events (meetings, gatherings, professional and celebratory events, speeches, weddings etc.) and, of course, luxurious and modern reception areas. A unique asset is the renowned roof garden, a super panoramic hot spot that has rightfully become the talk of the town.
The driving force behind all of the above is Sofia and Dionysia Stefanopoulou, who supervise and orchestrate everything with passion and enthusiasm, along with a professional team. All honor the vision of a benefactor from Patras, who felt more Greek than ever while progressing and prospering in America, returning to his homeland with a vision of growth and creation.
The Patras Half Marathon operates under the auspices of the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports specifically the General Secretariat for Sports.
The primary mission of the General Secretariat for Sports is to implement the sports policy of Greece, aiming at cultivating, disseminating, and instilling the sporting spirit throughout society.
We are proud that the contribution of the event to the promotion of sports is acknowledged through the auspices of the General Secretariat for Sports.
Trigkas Nephros MON A.E., the chronic dialysis unit, announces its support for our race by becoming the main sponsor of the seminar “Running and Health” organized by the Patras Half Marathon on March 3, 2024. Additionally, the unit will provide its ambulances on the day of the race for medical assistance.
Participation in this sporting event represents for Trigkas Nephros an opportunity to strengthen community spirit and highlight the importance of health care. In the field of chronic dialysis, the significance of mobility and a healthy lifestyle for improving quality of life is fully understood. Physical activity and sports play a crucial role in the therapeutic process, offering patients the chance to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Trigkas Nephros MON A.E., established with a focus on the quality and safety of hemodialysis patients, is housed in a newly constructed 1,200-square-meter building and stands as the largest chronic dialysis unit in Western Greece. Equipped with state-of-the-art medical and facility infrastructure, it is conveniently located near Venizelou Street and within walking distance from the center of Patras (521 Korinthou Str. & Voreiou Ipirou).
The scientific manager of the unit, Dr. Panagiotis Trigkas, a nephrologis, a graduate of the University of Patras, who together with Dr. Zioga Styliani, a nephrologist, a graduate of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, lead the core team of physicians, gradually supported by other specialists.
The specialized staff, with exclusive experience in hemodialysis, prioritizes quality dialysis and patient safety. Comfort and entertainment for patients are also paramount concerns.
In the region of Achaia, the enduring presence of the name Konstantinos Trigkas is inseparable from nephrology and hemodialysis. Konstantinos Trigkas, as an educator and pioneer, influenced the nephrological community, while his son, Panagiotis Trigkas, continued his legacy by founding TRIGKAS NEPHROS.
The expertise of TRIGKAS NEPHROS in the healthcare sector aligns seamlessly with supporting a running event, encouraging the community to adopt a more active lifestyle.