In its 7th edition, “Navarino Challenge”, to be held from 11-13 October 2019, in Messinia and at Costa Navarino, continues to innovate with a roster of environmentally friendly activities.
“Navarino Challenge” allows participants to be informed and involved in its activities to support the sacred goal of combating childhood obesity through exercise and awareness of the benefits of a Mediterranean diet.
With a view to adopting a more eco-friendly strategy, the organizers: a) have declared the start and end points of the Navarino Dunes runways as strictly smoke-free areas, b) have declared the beautiful Voidokilia beach, through which the runners cross, as strictly plastic-free, c) will offer participants an eco-friendly bag by Luanvi, event’s official sports supplier.
Running routes:
Participants can choose between the top-of-the-range Ford Go Further Greek Half-Marathon (21.1km), 10km by PlantBox, and 5km (running & dynamic walking). Starting from the Navarino Dunes of Costa Navarino, professional and amateur athletes will run along the coast to Pylos, crossing the beautiful Voidokilia beach, following the Homeric trail that Telemachos traced for Odysseus in King Nestor’s land. It is the only trail run that combines soil, sand and asphalt.
On the same day, the children’s 1km course will take place. The routes have been planned by the former marathon runner, current classic marathon course national record holder, running coach and director of All About Running, Nikos Polias. The event includes race timing for all runners.
The olive tree, a key symbol of Ancient Greece, the Olympic Games, of the Mediterranean diet, and of Messinia in particular, is given its due place of honour at Navarino Challenge. Peloponnese-based PlantBox, the award-winning team at the Athens Startup Awards, will offer an original olive tree package to each participant. Participants will also receive high quality cosmetics by Messinian Spa, a range of cosmetics based on Kalamata olive oil and other natural Greek products.
Accommodation Packages are available at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino with guests enjoying a full programme of events that include more than 20 sporting activities. The first 50 to book their package at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino stand a chance to win a free participation at the Authentic Athens Marathon 5km race on Sunday, November 10, 2019.
Registrations continue for running and swimming are available at this link. Pre-sale is also available online via www.viva.gr or by phone at 11876 as well as at all Viva pre-sale points.