In the last meters, “Kallimarmaro is waiting for you” everyone shouted and you, in turn, tear the thread of the finish line. Excitement, strong emotions
By Sofia Tastsidis
The Authentic Athens Marathon with its unique route and history continues to move and inspire thousands of runners from all over the world, conveying the message of “good luck” and “fight” for what they deserve. The historical and cultural weight of this route lends it a symbolism not found in other marathons, making it unique.
A small historical review is necessary to gain global knowledge about the beginning of the Athens Marathon. So we learn that the ancient messenger Pheidippides according to legend, he ran from Marathon to Athens to announce the victory of the Athenians at the Battle of Marathon by exclaiming “Hello! We were crushed!” and after that he fell and breathed his last.
Since 1983, the classic Athens Marathon has been held in memory of the iconic marathon runner Grigoris Lambrakis. Possibly most of you have heard of him because of Grigoriou Lambrakis Avenue in the area of Piraeus. But who is this great personality?
In memory of Grigoris Lambrakis
It is about a man who is a landmark of courage, dynamism and constant struggle who never stopped supporting his beliefs. A man who struggled to convey the message that the whole world has the right to live in Peace, Freedom and Democracy. The thread of life for him too, as for Pheidippides, was cut by conveying exactly this message. In a way, the Marathon has also been identified with the route of the messenger, the person who runs to deliver the message, whatever it may be because it is different for each of us.
People from all over the world gather for this party – because it can only be called a party after the participation of about 21 thousand people. Each runner dressed differently, several showing their place of origin by wearing their flag colors, others giving a playful character to the race dressed in banana uniform, others as Spartans, ancient Greeks in sandals, others in tops printed with dedications and so much more. ..
Trackside public participation is key. Every kilometer of the route is flooded with the voices of encouragement from the spectators, who with their continuous support become part of the success of the race. Volunteers, professionals and ordinary citizens form the backbone of the event, ensuring the race runs smoothly and giving runners the feeling that every step counts. From the Marathon culminating in Kallimarmaro, families, children, elderly, Greeks and foreigners encourage you either by handing out olive branches, holding banners, or even shaking your hand making you feel like a champion.
The banners I singled out
It was my first time participating in this grand event, and among the numerous banners I spotted was a young man towards the end of the route dressed in an all-white cloak and beard, who had apparently tried to imitate God. So it was written “the end is near…”
Furthermore, there was no shortage of political positions such as “With PASOK, you would have received a Marathon allowance”.
The music that filled the streets was polyphonic with a peak moment somewhere in the 5th kilometer where a group of small children, dressed in traditional costumes, had set up a circle and were dancing. The match started with “Zorba” playing loudly and in between we even heard “Roza” by Mitropanos, possibly wishing the organizers to give an experience of Greek music to the foreigners.
The Athens Marathon is an opportunity to test one’s limits and prove that willpower can overcome any physical limitation. Because it is certain that after some kilometers, especially if we take into account the steep and intense differences in altitude, your body is strained and your stamina drops.
This is the point where the fight really begins because then you run with your soul and mind and not with your feet. As long as the mind runs, the legs don’t stop. This is a rule!
What do you think about while running the Marathon?
And what can occupy your mind all these kilometers? You think about why you started this race, what is your initial and personal goal, because the kilometers that have preceded to get there are the real effort and that day simply belongs to you and you enjoy the route, the journey. The thumbs up from your own person, the cameras that capture you, the photographers, the other runners, the volunteers that supply you, the music bands that take you on your journey, the nature around you and so many other things that don’t leave you alone.
The last measures
Last meters, “Kallimarmaro is waiting for you” everyone shouted, people in the stands, music on the speakers and you, in turn, tear the thread of the finish line. Excitement, strong emotions, tears, hugs, feelings that you can’t handle at that moment... Everything seems so easy when you complete it, but the struggle with what it entails is definitely important because it tests the stubbornness of the soul and human limits.
A unique moment that proves the greatness of the winner was also that of the first Greek man, where he was waiting for his friend who finished second and gave him a big hug. Last year, it should be noted, exactly the opposite had happened. This will mean “good luck”, respect, love, greatness of soul… These and many more you can experience, because you can, only by setting your own personal goals, whatever they may be!
See you at the launch!
Source: Skai
I have worked as a journalist for over 10 years, and my work has been featured on many different news websites. I am also an author, and my work has been published in several books. I specialize in opinion writing, and I often write about current events and controversial topics. I am a very well-rounded writer, and I have a lot of experience in different areas of journalism. I am a very hard worker, and I am always willing to put in the extra effort to get the job done.
