On Sunday, June 7, another Vamvakou Mountain Run came to a successful close! And once again, we measured much more than kilometres. We counted smiles, personal goals achieved, emotional embraces, and applause that accompanied every runner all the way to the finish line.
This year, 450 runners from Athens, the Peloponnese, across Greece, and from abroad took to the trails with passion and determination—not to chase a finish time or pursue something elusive, but to enjoy the experience, create lasting memories, and fill their journeys with images of the breathtaking trails of Mount Parnon in Laconia. With more than 580 registrations, this year’s event confirmed that interest in the race continues to grow year after year—and that, more than anything else, makes us truly happy. And for those who did not make it to the starting line this year, we look forward to welcoming you next year!
On Saturday evening, the pasta party set the tone for the weekend. A discussion with runner and artist Giorgos Dimoulas, who spoke about art, sport, and his personal decision to leave Athens and settle in the countryside, inspired both athletes and non-athletes, reminding us of what truly matters in life.
The event was organized for the sixth time by Vamvakou Revival, as part of the village revival initiative, which is implemented with the moral and financial support of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF).
Behind every race stands a dedicated team of people who give their time and energy without expecting anything in return. Seventy volunteers from eight volunteer groups (Spartiates Dromeis, Hellenic Red Cross, Kladas Athletic Club, Sparta Motorcycle Sports Club, APS Kallisthenis, Etimoklis, Sparta Mountaineering Club, and Spartan Cross Gym) worked tirelessly to ensure that every runner reached the finish line safely.
A heartfelt thank you to the Region of Peloponnese, the Municipality of Sparta, the Sparta Forestry Department, the Hellenic Police, and the Fire Service for their valuable support and cooperation, as well as to the local businesses of Sparta for their contribution. And, of course, thank you to every runner who trusted our trails.
See you again next June for the 7th Vamvakou Mountain Run! Until then, enjoy your training, keep running, keep smiling, and keep making memories—we look forward to welcoming you back.
Organized by: Vamvakou Revival
Event Director: Ioannis Dimopoulos
Lead Donor: Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF)