By Maria Gregoriou
The Limassol Marathon is set for April, but for those who just can’t wait that long and for those who feel lucky enough to win free entry to the Eighteenth Logicom Cyprus Marathon, mark March 6 as the date to run in Paphos.
You have until Friday to enter the draw for one of two free entries for the marathon, half-marathon, five km fun run and the ten km road race. All you have to do is visit http://www.logicomcyprusmarathon.com/#!santa-claus-contest/edivs and complete the form.
The Eighteenth Logicom Cyprus Marathon is for over 18-year-olds and will start at 7.30am at the Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Birthplace). From there the course will follow the coastal route. You will be able to slow down every three km at a fluid station, where you will be cheered on. There is a six hour time limit in which the marathon is to be completed.
The course is accredited by AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races) and is clearly marked at every kilometre.
The first man and first woman of the marathon will be honoured with a wreath made from olive leaves straight from the Marathon in Athens, which are immersed in gold. This is the same prize that the winners of the Cape Town Marathon and the Boston Marathon receive.
For those who would like to run the half marathon, it is suitable for those over the age of 16 and will start at 8.25am from Paphos Castle.
This race is on almost flat ground, includes six fluid stations to make sure you keep refreshed, and is the best way to test yourself.
The first man and fist woman to finish the half marathon will receive a coupon from Saucony. Trophies will also be awarded to the top three men and women in different age groups.
The ten km road race is suitable for those over 14. It will start at 8.40am from Paphos Castle. This is the most popular distance of the event as it covers a flat route along Poseidonos Avenue.
Groups of volunteer marshals will assist in guiding runners throughout the course. The Paphos police will also make sure that effective traffic control is maintained so that the safety of all runners is secured.
Trophies will also be awarded to the top three men and women in different age groups.
The five km fun run is great for families as it is suitable for persons over nine-years-old. This run will begin at 8.30am also from Paphos Castle.
Runners will run next to the Archaelogical park and then next to the sea. Volunteers and the police will also be present on this path to make sure that all runners of all ages are safe.
Trophies will be awarded to the first three men to finish the race, and the first three women.
After the marathon, you can also enjoy traditional Cypriot and Greek dancing and a number of activities for the whole family.
Eighteenth Logicom Cyprus Marathon
Run the marathon, half marathon, 5 KM fun run or the 10 km road run. March 6. Marathon: Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Birth place) at 7.30am, half marathon: Paphos Castle at 8.25am, 10km road race: Paphos Castle at 8.40am and 5km fun race from Paphos castle at 8.30am. €50-20. Tel: 22-370396
