Visual Arts Exhibition and Major Tribute Event to Equestrian Sport and the Olympic Values at the Athens War Museum by the “Federation of Olympia”

• “Ἵππος γὰρ εὐπρεπές τι ἐστίν” – The Timeless Value of Horsemanship, the Relationship between Humans and Horses, and the Values of Olympism at the Heart of the Event

The visual arts exhibition and major tribute event dedicated to Equestrian Sport and the Olympic Values, organized by the Federation of Olympia AMKE, was held with great success at the Athens War Museum, within the framework of the actions of the Route of Truce 2026 and on the occasion of World Olympic Day.

The event was a tribute to the horse and to equestrian sports, which have long been associated with nobility, discipline, respect, the harmonious coexistence of humans and animals, as well as with the fundamental values of the Olympic Movement.

The central symbolism of the evening was Xenophon’s phrase from his work On Horsemanship: “Ἵππος γὰρ εὐπρεπές τι ἐστίν” (“The horse is indeed something noble and dignified”), a saying that highlights the profound relationship between humans and horses, a relationship that runs through Greek history, culture and sport.

The event opened with a greeting by the President of the Federation of Olympia, Mrs. Sofia Hintziou-Kontogianni, who referred to the vision, actions and work of the Organization in promoting the Olympic Values, cultural heritage and the connection of modern people with the principles of Truce.

The President of the Athens War Museum, Air Marshal (ret.) Mr. Konstantinos Karamesinis, in his address, emphasized the special symbolism of hosting the event at the Museum, underlining the timeless relationship between Greeks and the horse:

“The relationship of Greeks with the horse runs through the history of our nation’s struggles, from antiquity to modern times. This tradition is connected with courage, discipline, self-sacrifice and devotion to duty, values that we encounter both in sport and in our military history.”

He also pointed out that true success gains meaning when it is accompanied by ethos, consistency and contribution to society, while stressing that the athletes honored at the event are examples of effort and personal transcendence.

The Historical and Cultural Value of Horsemanship

Associate Professor Konstantina Goggaki, of the School of Physical Education and Sport Science of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, developed the topic: “The Invaluable Value of Horsemanship in Antiquity and Today”.

In her speech, she referred to the importance of the horse in ancient Greek tradition, as reflected already in Homeric poetry, in the art of war and in athletic contests. She made special reference to the connection of the horse with martial excellence in the Iliad, to the chariot races held in honor of Patroclus, and to the deep moral and aesthetic dimension of the equestrian tradition. She stressed that the relationship between human and horse constitutes a unique form of cooperation, as it requires physical harmony, technical training, emotional intelligence and respect for a living being. She also referred to the modern form of Equestrian Sport as an Olympic sport, which includes Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing, as well as to the significant contribution of therapeutic riding to the rehabilitation of motor and psychosocial difficulties.

Greek Horse Breeds and the Tradition of Ilia

Veterinarian and Professor Emeritus of the Agricultural University of Athens, Mr. Ioannis Menegatos, presented the Greek horse breeds and the importance of preserving equestrian heritage.

He referred to the Greek breeds: Pindos, Pineia, Crete, Skyros, Ainos, Thessaly, Andravida, Zakynthos and Rhodope.

He made special reference to the breeds of Ilia, Pineia and Andravida, emphasizing their connection with ancient Greek tradition and the history of the region.

He noted that the first horse races were held in Ancient Olympia, while Xenophon wrote his important works on horsemanship in Skillous, Ilia — the first manuals of hippology.

Mr. Menegatos, who is an honorary citizen of the Municipality of Andravida-Kyllini and President of the Andravida Horse Exhibition, also referred to the uniqueness of the Andravida horse, the result of the relationship of local residents with breeding and their love for the horse.

The Visual Arts Exhibition and the Artists

Art historian and exhibition curator Mrs. Annita Patsouraki presented the visual arts tribute inspired by Xenophon’s phrase: “Ἵππος γὰρ εὐπρεπές τι ἐστίν”. She thanked collectors Mr. Michael Skoullos and Mr. Fotis Zachos, as well as all the artists who participated.

The participating visual artists were:

Paschalis Angelidis, Alexandra Athanasiadi, Stathis Alexopoulos, Mina Valyraki-Papatheodorou, Erietta Vordoni, Christos Georgoudakis, Charalampos Goumas, Georgios Katsigiannis, Dimitris Bakopanos, Feny Bouza, Dimitra Xenaki, Angelos & Filippos Panagiotidis, Lazaros Pantos, Alexandros Papakonstantinou, Nikos-Giorgos Papoutsidis, Altin Patselis, Aristidis Patsoglou, Giorgos Roussis and Nikos Siamos.

Message from the President of CISM on the Olympic Truce

During the event, a message was screened by the President of the International Military Sports Council (CISM), Colonel Nilton Rolim, who referred to the importance of the Olympic Truce as a global symbol of peace, cooperation and solidarity.

He underlined that sport is a bridge between peoples and that Equestrian Sport embodies values such as trust, harmony, cooperation and excellence.

Honorary Awards

During the event, important figures of Greek Equestrian Sport were honored:

• The President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee, Mr. Isidoros Kouvelos, for his continuous contribution and support to Equestrian Sport.
• The President of the Hellenic Equestrian Federation, Mr. Kostas Karakasilis, who delivered a greeting and received the honorary award on behalf of the Federation.
• The President of the Hellenic Riding Club, Mr. Giorgos Fragkogiannis.

Distinguished athletes were also honored:

Heidi Antikatzidis, the only Greek Olympic athlete in Equestrian Sport and the leading athlete in the history of Greek equestrian sport.

Ioli Mytilineou, Show Jumping champion and athlete of the Filippi Equestrian Sports Club, with a significant international presence.

Angelos Touloupis, a leading Greek Show Jumping athlete with international distinctions and a strong presence in major competitions.

Michalis Kalarakis, Paralympic athlete in Para Dressage, whose course constitutes an example of strength, perseverance and personal transcendence.

Antonis Antoniou, distinguished equestrian athlete, who represented Greece at the 2023 World Military Equestrian Championship in Fontainebleau. The award was presented by the former Director of the Supreme Sports Council of the Armed Forces, Mr. Spyros Andriopoulos.

Also honored were:

The late Freddy Serpieris, an emblematic figure of Greek Equestrian Sport, for his major contribution to the creation and development of the sport in Greece.

Mrs. Lena Levidi, for her significant contribution to Greek Equestrian Sport and to therapeutic riding.

Therapeutic Riding Awards

Important figures who contributed to the development of therapeutic riding were also honored:

• Mrs. Rosemary Georgopoulou, a pioneer of therapeutic riding in Greece.
• Mrs. Dimitra Karouzaki, founding member and long-standing President of the Hellenic Therapeutic Riding Association.
• Mrs. Maria Liga, physiotherapist, hippotherapist and former President of the Therapeutic Riding Center of Serres.

Awards to Supporters of the Federation of Olympia

The Federation of Olympia also honored the supporters of its actions:

• Collectors Michael Skoullos and Fotis Zachos.
• Mr. G. Karavias and Karavias Art Insurance for insuring the works of the exhibition.
• Mr. Yiannis Paraskevopoulos, founder and CEO of TURBOMED.
• AVANCE car rental, whose award was received by Mrs. Marisa Drolapa, Sales & Marketing Manager.
• Olympia Odos.
• Mr. Nikos Paraskevopoulos of GAIAOHOS CAPITAL S.A.

The event was honored by the presence of Member of Parliament for Ilia Mr. Andreas Nikolakopoulos, representing the President of the Hellenic Parliament; Mrs. Rita Pikrou Moraitaki, representative of the Regional Governor of Attica; the Deputy Regional Governor of Athens, Mr. Giorgos Vlachos; the CEO of STASY S.A., Mr. Athanasios Kottaras; the President of the Hellenic Olympians Association, Mrs. Voula Zygouri; world champions Mrs. Maria Karpathaki and Mrs. Maria Christoforidi; Mrs. Sofia Agrapidi from the Filippi Andravida Club “O Spartakos”; political figure Mr. Grigoris Lamprakis; and the representative of EFKA, Mrs. Fotini Vryna.

The event was coordinated and presented by journalist Mrs. Xenia Safari.

The events were held with the support of the Hellenic Parliament and were organized by the Federation of Olympia AMKE, with co-organizers the Region of Western Greece, the Municipalities of Ilida, Pyrgos and Ancient Olympia, and the Supreme Sports Council of the Armed Forces (A.S.A.E.D.). The International Olympic Truce Centre participated as a cooperating support body, with the support of the Region of Attica, #BEACTIVE and STASY S.A..

The events were held under the auspices of the Ministry of National Defence; the Ministry of Education, Religious Affairs and Sports; the Ministry of Rural Development and Food; the Ministry of Tourism; the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO); the International Military Sports Council (CISM); the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC); the International Olympic Academy (IOA); the Hellenic National Olympic Academy; the Association of Greek Olympic Games Participants (ESOA); and the Hellenic Olympians Association.

Volunteer support was provided by the Hellenic Red Cross, Corps of Volunteer Samaritans, Rescuers and Lifeguards – Amaliada Regional Department; the Hellenic Red Cross – Pyrgos Regional Department; the 1st Scout Group of Ilioupoli; E.O.PY.D. Vrachneika; S.E.DI.P. of Western Achaia; Run Amaliada; and Olympia Runners.

Media sponsors included ERT, ERT3, ERT Pyrgos, ERA Sport 101.8, ERT NEWS Radio 105.8, PSAT, RunningNews.gr, OVI and apopseis.gr.

The events of the Federation of Olympia are supported by TURBOMED – Yiannis Paraskevopoulos, AVANCE car rental, THEONI Natural Mineral Water and Karavias Art Insurance.

Supplier-supporters include Olympia Odos, GAIAOHOS CAPITAL S.A., Xenia – The Hospitality Experience, Ktima Brintziki, X-TREME STORES, BARAT biscuits, DOLE, the Panegialios Union of Cooperatives, the National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives (ETHEAS), Kalomoiris ILVIGAL, Fargeco Hellas, PANINI FOODS, Karnaros Bakery and Bioilis (Organic Products – Olive Oil Trade).

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ROUTE OF TRUCE 2026 – SUNDAY 26th OF APRIL 2026

Runners from 16 Countries Took Part in the Route of Truce

50 kilometres from Ancient Ilida to Ancient Olympia

A Powerful Message from the Land that Gave Birth to the Olympic Value of Truce
Three Days of Events, for the 11th Year, in Ilida and Olympia

In an atmosphere of enthusiasm, fellowship, respect and emotion, the three-day events of the Federation of Olympia AMKE in Ilia for the Route of Truce 2026 were successfully completed on Sunday, for the 11th consecutive year.

Runners from all over Greece, as well as from 16 countries, covered the 50 kilometres of the Route of Truce Trail, from Ancient Ilida, the organizing city of the ancient Olympic Games, to Ancient Olympia, the place where the Games were held.

The runners started on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 05:45 in the morning, from the entrance of the Old Museum of Ancient Ilida. They passed through the villages of Dafni, Keramidia, Dafniotissa, Peristeri, Cheimadio, Sopi, Karatoula, Magoula, Latzoi, Irakleia, Pournari, Pelopio and Platanos, and finished at the Old Town Hall of Ancient Olympia, where the award ceremony also took place.

As every year, approximately 500 runners from Greece and abroad took part in the Route of Truce 2026. This year, runners participated from Canada, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, France, Ukraine, China, Romania, Venezuela, Mexico, Bulgaria, Moldova, Bosnia, Spain, Sweden and Türkiye, powerfully conveying the message of Peace as its “messengers”.

The Route of Truce 2026 was held along the Eco-touristic Route Ilida – Olympia: the Route of Truce Trail. It was not competitive in nature, and the runners who completed the 50 km route were awarded unique numbered medals.

This year, the peace walk was led by runner and author Mr. Giorgos Pantazopoulos.

Present at the event were: Member of Parliament for Ilia Dionysis Kalamatianos; the Director of the Office of MP Michalis Katrinis and representative of the Office of MP Andreas Nikolakopoulos; Deputy Regional Governor Theodoros Vasilopoulos; Municipal Councillor Konstantinos Koutroubis, representing the Mayor of Ilida; Deputy Mayor of Ancient Olympia Antonis Chrysanthakopoulos; S. Sampsounis from the Ilia Chamber of Commerce; Olympic wrestler Maria-Louiza Vryoni; world champions Maria Christoforidi in Weightlifting and Maria Karpathaki in Taekwondo; the Forestry Officer of Pyrgos, Mr. P. Lattas; and others.

In all the villages along the route, the residents and volunteers of the Route of Truce once again showed that the spirit of “Xenios Zeus” still lives in the land that gave birth to the Olympic Games, generously offering local delicacies to the runners this year as well.

The Three-Day Events

The three-day events held within the framework of the Route of Truce began on Friday afternoon from Ancient Pisa and were completed on Sunday with the Route of Truce from Ilida to Olympia.

Specifically:

The Route of Kleosthenis, from Ancient Pisa to Ancient Olympia, a 5 km race in honour of Kleosthenis, King of Ancient Pisa, who, together with Iphitos of Ilida and Lycurgus of Sparta, established the institution of Truce.

Runners from Greece and from 11 countries abroad — Sweden, Moldova, Germany, Poland, Brazil, Uganda, Kenya, Taiwan, El Salvador, China and Lebanon — started on Friday afternoon from Ancient Pisa. They ran past the tombs of the Hellanodikai, the Temple of Demeter Chamyne, in front of the International Olympic Academy, alongside the ancient Stadium of Olympia, and finished at the entrance of the Town Hall of Ancient Olympia.

The first three women were:
Konstantina Tsoukala
Karolina Pietraszek, Poland
Georgia Klironomou

The first three men were:
Ilias Giannikopoulos
Nathan Mayega Mukasa, Uganda
Frayuri Bai, China

The event was held with the decisive contribution of the Supreme Sports Council of the Armed Forces (A.S.A.E.D.). Present were the President of the Municipal Community of Pisa, Sofoklis Sofianopoulos; the Deputy Mayor of Ancient Olympia, Mr. Antonis Chrysanthakopoulos; Olympic wrestler Mrs. Maria-Louiza Vryoni; and four-time world champion in Weightlifting, Mrs. Maria Christoforidi.

At the award ceremony area, an information stand operated by the National Organization for the Prevention and Treatment of Addictions, distributing informational material and souvenirs.

The Route of Ifitos took place on Saturday afternoon in Ancient Ilida. Primary and lower secondary school children participated. The young runners started from the square of Ilida and finished at the modern theatre of Ancient Ilida, in a 2 km race. All children were honoured with medals and souvenirs.

Special distinctions were awarded to the first boy and girl in each category:

Primary School:
Alkistis Angelatou, 3rd Grade
Dimitris Zounos, 6th Grade

Lower Secondary School:
Michalis Kalogeropoulos, 1st Grade of Lower Secondary School
Chrysa Kalogeropoulou, 3rd Grade of Lower Secondary School

The children were welcomed and awarded their medals by Olympic wrestler Mrs. Maria-Louiza Vryoni, world champion in Weightlifting Mrs. Maria Christoforidi, and Taekwondo world champion and #BEACTIVE ambassador Mrs. Maria Karpathaki.

The Opening Ceremony took place on Saturday afternoon in Ancient Ilida.

In her address, the President of the Federation of Olympia AMKE, Sofia Hintziou-Kontogianni, stated, among other things:

“Today, as Greece and the international community are experiencing conditions similar to those that led Iphitos, King of Ilida, to seek guidance from the Pythia, asking how the Greeks could achieve concord — receiving the prophetic exhortation ‘to renew the Olympic Games’ — today, more than ever, the implementation of Truce as an Olympic value is necessary. We must remember what unites us and not what divides us. Truce must be brought to the forefront, and respect for it must become — as it was in antiquity — a prerequisite for participation in the modern Olympic Games as well.”

In her greeting, the President of the Municipal Council of Ilida, Mrs. Theoni Georgopoulou, thanked the organizers and the runners for their participation. She emphasized the universal character of the Olympic Truce, which today appears more relevant than ever, highlighted the invaluable importance of Ancient Ilida on the global cultural map, and stressed that the effort of the Federation of Olympia must be further strengthened, as it expresses the values of Olympism, which were born in this land.

The President of the Local Community of Ilida, Mr. Christos Gourdoubas, referred to the value of Truce as a prerequisite for peace and underlined the role of Ancient Ilida in its promotion.

The Opening Ceremony concluded with a concert by Sidorela Sindy and Stavros Nathanael, who energized the runners and participants with traditional and folk dances.

Present at the Opening Ceremony were the President of the Municipal Council of Ilida, Mrs. Theoni Georgopoulou; the President of the Local Community of Ilida, Christos Gourdoubas; the Culture and Promotion Advisor of the Municipality of Ilida, Magda Christodoulopoulou; Olympic wrestler Mrs. Maria-Louiza Vryoni; world champion in Weightlifting Mrs. Maria Christoforidi; Taekwondo world champion Mrs. Maria Karpathaki; presidents of local cultural associations; runners; and a large audience.

Local delicacies were offered to attendees by the Cultural Associations of Ancient Ilida, Kalyvia of Ilida and Fileas of Augeias, as well as by the Association of School Cleaning Staff of Ilia.

All events were organized by the Federation of Olympia AMKE, with co-organizers the Region of Western Greece, the Municipalities of Ilida, Pyrgos and Ancient Olympia, and the Supreme Sports Council of the Armed Forces (A.S.A.E.D.). The International Olympic Truce Centre participated as a cooperating support body, with the support of the Region of Attica and #BEACTIVE.

The events were held under the auspices of the Ministries of National Defence; Education, Religious Affairs and Sports; Rural Development and Food; and Tourism; the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO); the International Military Sports Council (CISM); the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC); the International Olympic Academy (IOA); the National Olympic Academy of Greece; the Association of Olympic Games Participants; and the Hellenic Olympians Association.

Volunteer support was provided by the Hellenic Red Cross, Corps of Volunteer Samaritans, Rescuers and Lifeguards of the Amaliada Regional Department; the Hellenic Red Cross, Pyrgos Regional Department; the 1st Scout System of Ilioupoli; E.O.PY.D. Vrachneika; S.E.DI.P. of Western Achaia; Olympia Runners; and Run Amaliada.

Media sponsors included ERT, ERT3, ERT Pyrgos, ERA Sport 101.8, ERT News Radio 105.8, PSAT, Running News.gr, OVI and apopseis.gr.

In our effort to keep alive the history and values of our land, we wish to thank our supporters for their contribution and assistance, which greatly supports the promotion and achievement of our purpose.

Main Supporter: TURBOMED – Yiannis Paraskevopoulos.
Official Supporters: THEONI Natural Mineral Water, AVANCE car rental, Karavias Art Insurance.
Supplier-Supporters: Olympia Odos, GAIAOHOS CAPITAL S.A., Xenia – The Hospitality Experience, Ktima Brintziki, X-TREME STORES, BARAT biscuits, DOLE, the Panegialios Union of Cooperatives, the National Union of Agricultural Cooperatives (ETHEAS), Kalomoiris ILVIGAL, Fargeco Hellas, PANINI FOODS, Karnaros Bakery and Bioilis Organic Products – Olive Oil Trade.

The organizers warmly thank the Hellenic Police for the coordination and safe conduct of the actions, the National Emergency Aid Centre (EKAV), as well as the Presidents of the Local Communities, the Cultural Associations and the residents of all the Local Communities along the Route of Truce Trail, for the excellent hospitality they offered to the runners of the Route of Truce 2026.

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ART EXHIBITION AND AWARDS FOR TRUCE AND “FAIR PLAY” WITHIN THE EVENTS OF THE “ROUTE OF TRUCE 2020”

World Olympic Day is celebrated on June 23, and the Federation of Olympia dedicated its events, the art exhibition and the awards, to “Fair Play”.

At the opening of the art exhibition, during a splendid ceremony at the Foyer of the War Museum, the following were honored: the President of the International Olympic Academy, Mr. Isidoros Kouvelos, for the promotion of Olympic Education in Greece and the dissemination of Olympic values to young people worldwide; the Vice Presidents of the International Olympic Truce Centre, former Prime Minister Mr. G. Papandreou and former Minister Ms. Fani Palli-Petralia, who have worked to advance the idea of Truce globally; as well as Greek Olympians Ioannis Melissanidis, Valerios Leonidis and Spyros Gianniotis, who honored the Greek flag and filled Hellenism with pride, having associated their names with “Fair Play”.

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The event opened with a performance of the Olympic Anthem by singer-songwriter and actress Ms. Salina Gavala.

Guests were welcomed by Ms. Sofia Hintziou Kontogianni, President of the Federation of Olympia, who referred to the revival of the Ancient Olympic Games, spoke about the organization’s projects and actions to date, and outlined the upcoming events in Ilia and Athens within the framework of the “Route of Truce 2020”. It is noted that the Route of Truce, from Ancient Ilida to Ancient Olympia, will take place on August 30. Concluding her address, she emphasized that “perhaps the time has now come, by bridging the ancient with the modern, to restore harmony and balance between sport and culture, to remind ourselves why the Olympic Games were held, by each one of us—athletes, coaches, referees, spectators—redefining the universal values we have inherited and stating our own ‘Olympic struggle for salvation’.”

The awards began with the President of the International Olympic Academy, Mr. Isidoros Kouvelos, who was honored for the hard work he has carried out for many years to make the vision of implementing Olympic Education in Greece a reality and for educating young people from all over the world in the Values of Olympism at the IOA facilities in Ancient Olympia. In fact, former IOC President Dr. Jacques Rogge had described his work as an “Olympic Record”, as it included everything defined by the IOC as Olympic education. Mr. Kouvelos envisioned Ancient Olympia as a global education center and succeeded in securing from the International Olympic Committee the largest grant ever awarded to the IOA, approximately 13 million dollars, so that the IOA facilities in Ancient Olympia could be fully renovated.

During the award presentation, Mr. Kouvelos stated, among other things: “Thank you very much for the honor, however I believe I am doing nothing more than what is self-evident, and I would like to call on the leadership of the Ministry of Education to contribute to the implementation of Olympic Education in schools, because we are almost the only country where the values of Olympism are not taught in our schools. We have done a lot over the years and I hope this work will continue. At the same time, I believe that soon, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education, the International Olympic Academy will have the first English-taught undergraduate program in Olympic Studies.”

Mr. Kouvelos was honored by the Mayor of Ancient Olympia, Mr. Giorgos Georgiopoulos, and the President of the Federation of Olympia, Ms. Sofia Hintziou Kontogianni.

In his greeting, the Mayor of Ancient Olympia, Mr. Giorgos Georgiopoulos, stressed: “Congratulations to the Federation of Olympia for the excellent organization of yet another event which has now been established as an institution within the Olympic Movement and which this year is dedicated to ‘Fair Play’.

In these difficult times for the entire planet, at a moment when humanity is waging a great struggle against a tough opponent, I want to convey a message of optimism from the sacred land of Olympia. From Olympia, which elevated the struggle into the highest value of human life, we send a message of Victory. Humanity, united, with collective effort and discipline, will emerge victorious from this Struggle.”

Former Prime Minister and Vice President of the International Olympic Truce Centre Mr. George Papandreou expressed his support for the Federation of Olympia’s initiatives for The Route of Truce, during his award.

Among other things, he said: “Shortly after the selection of Athens for the 2004 Games, wishing the Greek spirit of the Games’ core purpose—namely Truce and Peace—to return, I approached the IOC with the aim of creating a stable structure for this idea.

Thus, in Nagano, Japan, the decision was taken for the Foundation and the Olympic Truce Centre. This ancient Greek idea gained ground once again.

It was established that every city seeking to host the Games must include in its bid file significant actions related to initiatives for the Olympic Truce.

With emotion I remember the moment Nelson Mandela signed the Truce Declaration, as did so many other important personalities from all continents. Even more so, when leaders of countries with rivalries or even conflicts co-signed that Declaration—such as Yasser Arafat and Shimon Peres.

To understand how far we have come, let us reflect on the recent appeal by the UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, for the pandemic to become an opportunity to end conflicts and achieve a global ceasefire.

The only war we should all wage together, he said, is against COVID-19.

His appeal found response from over 70 states and organizations, and also from opposing sides in conflict zones.

As the International Olympic Truce Centre, we embraced from the very first moment the initiative of the Federation of Olympia regarding The Route of Truce.

We have supported an effort that does not have merely local characteristics, although it seeks to highlight an area believed to have been followed in ancient times by participants in the Olympic Games, having first laid down their weapons.

Your effort, however—one for which I congratulate all contributors, with special mention to Sofia Kontogianni and her team—gained international resonance from the first year.

Thank you again, with the conviction that by joining forces we will be able to achieve much more, with the Olympic Games of 2021 on the horizon.”

The honorary plaque to the former Prime Minister was presented by the Board of the Federation of Olympia.

Former Minister and Vice President of the International Olympic Truce Centre, Ms. Fani Palli-Petralia, was honored for her longstanding contribution to Olympism and Sport. Congratulating the organizers in her greeting, she emphasized that “Olympic principles and values are not only athletic; they are universal and timeless values, and they unite people beyond race, religion and color—values humanity needs in order to move forward into the future.”

When we speak of “Fair Play”, every athlete’s mind goes to Spyros Gianniotis, who, through his stance at the 2016 Olympic Games, taught us what responsibility and respect for the rules truly mean.

He is an outstanding athlete with significant achievements and many medals. Two moments remain in our memory: his refusal to contest with an objection for the gold medal—respecting the rules of the competition—after he failed to touch the finish bar properly, which cost him the gold; and his moving apology to the Greek people at the 2012 Olympics in London, when he believed he could have achieved a better placing than 4th.

After presenting awards to Ms. Fani Palli-Petralia, Vice President of the International Olympic Truce Centre, and to the Olympic open-water swimmer Spyros Gianniotis, the Minister of the Interior Mr. Takis Theodorikakos stressed that the effort of the Federation of Olympia deserves support. Addressing Ms. Palli-Petralia, he described her as a “great lady of culture and sport, whose value is recognized across parties”, while he called Spyros Gianniotis a “Golden Greek”, the very definition of “fair play”, and wished that all Greek children would follow his example.

Among other things, Mr. Theodorikakos said: “Thank you for giving the Ministry of the Interior the opportunity to place your effort under its auspices. Congratulations for your consistent, long-term work. Let’s be honest: the struggle you are waging is a struggle against realism, because all these wonderful ideological and value-based frameworks come to mind every four years before the Olympic Games, and we end up having to beg someone not to bomb a region, at least during the Games. Even so, however, it is something important. It is worth supporting, worth offering ideas and values to young people.

Mr. Papandreou, I am very glad about what you said earlier. I believe that Greeks, in difficult times, did our best. Together we achieved it. With timely decisions, unity, democratic discipline, determination and solidarity, we achieved a lot—and united we can achieve even more in the future.

It is an honor for me to have the opportunity to honor the great lady of Greek sport and culture, Fani Palli-Petralia. She is an exceptionally creative person; she is a Lady with a capital L; a remarkable person who has offered so much to Greek sport and Olympic ideals, and her value is now recognized overall and across parties.

I want to say a huge thank you to Spyros Gianniotis, this remarkable young man. Spyros, you are forever a ‘golden’ Greek; you are the definition of ‘fair play’. May our children—every Greek child—be like you.

I believe Greeks are a dignified people, and you have emerged from this people—an illuminating and golden example that will shine forever. You did something unprecedented, and alongside ‘fair play’, of which you are the definition, you also told us something else: Never give up, never stop.”

Ioannis Melissanidis, the Olympian who made us all cry with pride at the Atlanta Olympic Games, winning Greece’s first gold medal in the floor exercises with 9.850 points—touching perfection and forcing even his opponents to applaud him.

At the age of 16, he donated the gold European medal he won in Prague to the family of his late Turkish teammate Murat Kanbas. With this act, Ioannis Melissanidis became an outstanding ambassador of “Fair Play”, proving that sport unites. The gold Olympian was honored by the Deputy Minister of Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis.

In his greeting, Mr. Melissanidis, visibly moved, referred to his friendship with his Turkish teammate and to the promise he made to himself when he learned of his death: that if he won the European Championship, he would give the medal to Murat Kanbas’ mother.

Mr. Melissanidis was honored by the Deputy Minister of Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis.

Valerios Leonidis gave us one of the most historic titanic battles in sports. His contests at the Atlanta Olympics, where he won the silver medal—especially his duel with Turkey’s Naim Süleymanoğlu in the 60 kg and 64 kg categories—went down in the history of weightlifting worldwide, as they successively broke five world records. After that thrilling contest, a strong friendship grew between Valerios and Turkey’s “Pocket Hercules”. When Süleymanoğlu passed away prematurely in November 2017, Valerios attended the funeral. His gesture of bowing before the coffin of his great rival and dear friend became headline news in Turkey and was broadcast worldwide—because Valerios Leonidis proved that sport can break down borders, politics, and religious or national rivalries.

Deputy Minister of Education Ms. Sofia Zacharaki, referring to the honoring of Valerios Leonidis, spoke about the strength of the Greek Olympian’s spirit, emphasizing that whoever discovers such inner strength realizes that they can lift not just a bar—but the whole world.

Among other things, she said: “Values such as ‘fair play’ remind us that the true winner is not only the one who stands on the podium, but also the one who, while striving for distinction, serves through example and ethos the universal values of the athletic and Olympic ideal—both on the field of play and beyond it.

Today’s award focuses on Valerios Leonidis as a person: the athlete who conveyed, in a way both moving and unforgettable, the spirit of ‘fair play’.

That scene will never leave our minds: November 2017—Valerios attends the funeral of his fellow athlete Naim Süleymanoğlu, who in the titanic battle of the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, where world records were being shattered one after another, won the gold medal while Valerios won the silver. Valerios kneels before Naim’s coffin and offers a final kiss to the former opponent—yet above all a fellow human and friend.

It is one of those moments that remain etched in collective memory and uniquely capture the power of sport to unite people and nations. And with that gesture, Valerios entered history as a symbol of this power—a power of the soul, which, when found within, allows a person to lift not merely a bar, but the entire world.

And for this reason, it is a great honor and joy for me to present the ‘fair play’ award to the athlete—and above all the human being—Valerios Leonidis.”

Due to commitments abroad, the President of the Hellenic Olympic Committee and Greek IOC member Mr. Spyros Kapralos was unable to attend the event and his award.

Mr. Georgios Patoulis, Regional Governor of Attica, was honored for his continuous support of the Federation of Olympia’s initiatives aimed at strengthening Olympism. The award was presented to Mr. Patoulis by Deputy Minister of Sports L. Avgenakis.

In his greeting, Mr. Patoulis warmly thanked the organizers for the honor and noted:

“We honor and support initiatives that convey a symbolic and meaningful message to all citizens and to people of sport—the message of Fair Play. It is our duty to create together the conditions that will shape a culture passing on to our children rules that say: I play fairly, I play clean, I respect the other person’s view, my teammates and my opponents.

The Region of Attica will continue to stand by organizations that contribute substantially and effectively to the dissemination and internationalization of Olympic values. Our goal is also to undertake further initiatives that promote dialogue, reconciliation, mutual understanding, solidarity and peace, which are the core Olympic ideals. As Local Government, we must highlight the spirit of humanism and culture—the Olympic spirit—which has been a timeless foundation of Western civilization. It is our duty to the younger generations.”

Curator Ms. Annita Patsouraki thanked all artists for their participation and dedicated her award to them for taking part in this multi-year effort and for promoting the ideas of Truce through their work.

Ms. Patsouraki was honored by Olympian and President of the Hellenic Olympians Association Ms. Evi Moraitidou, and Cyclades MP Ms. Aikaterini Monogyiou.

The visual artists who participated in the “FAIR PLAY” art exhibition were: Άγγελος, Πασχάλης Αγγελίδης, Μίνα Βαλυράκη-Παπαθεοδώρου, Άκης Βασιλόπουλος, Εριέττα Βορδώνη, Μάριος Βουτσινάς, Πηνελόπη Γαΐτη, Σπύρος Γεώργας, Κωστής Γεωργίου, Βασίλης Γκίζας, Χαράλαμπος Γκούμας, Όλγα Γουλανδρή, Γιάννης Γουρζής, Δημοσθένης Δαββέτας, Εύα Διβάρη, Κώστας Ευαγγελάτος, Πέτρος Ζουμπουλάκης, Μαρία Καλατζή, Εβίτα Κανέλλου, Kelly, Κωνσταντίνος Κερεστετζής, Αγγέλικα Κοροβέση, Μάγδα Κούρκουλου, Μαρία Κτιστοπούλου, Απόστολος Λάβδας, Γρηγόρης Λαγός, Κυριάκος Λαζαρίδης, Έλλη Λυραράκη, Jose Oriol Martinez (Consul of Cuba), Ηλ. Ματθαιόπουλος, Δημήτρης Μηλιώνης, Αντρέας Μητρόπουλος, Βαγγέλης Μήτσου, Στέλλα Μιμίκου, Μιχάλης Μιναριτζόγλου, Αλέξανδρος Μουστάκας, Βαγγέλης Μουστάκας, Νάντια Μπαράκου, Γιώργος Ξενούλης, Αλεξάνδρα Παλάσκα, Άγγελος Παναγιωτίδης, Αλέξανδρος Παπακωνσταντίνου, Νίκος-Γιώργος Παπουτσίδης, Ρούλα Πάππας-Τσιώτα, Ιωάννα Παρασκευά, Αλτιίν Πατσέλης, Γιώργος Ρούσσης, Γιώργος Σαμαράς, Παύλος Σάμιος, Παναγιώτης Σιάγκρης, Κώστας Σπυριούνης, Γιώργος Σταθόπουλος, Δημήτρης Ταλαγάνης, Άγγελος Τζιάρα, Γιώργος Τουρκοβασίλης, Δημήτρης Φόρτσας, Δημήτρης Χριστογιάννης, Ποτουρίδης Σταύρος (with a collection of memorabilia), Ζωή Σαββίνα (poetic–visual intervention).

The awards concluded with honors presented to AMKE AIGEAS and OPAP, supporters of the Federation of Olympia’s initiatives.

During the event, young kindergarten pupils from Ancient Olympia recited poems by Olympic Education teacher Dr. Ileana Klokoni: “Hand in Hand” by pupil Vasiliki Kladi and “Sacred Purpose” by pupil Paraskevas Flessas. The children were coached by kindergarten teacher Ms. Anna Papaioannou.

The event closed with Dr. of Philosophy Fotis Christou performing an excerpt from “Mythistorema” by Giorgos Seferis.

The awards were created by the exceptional sculptor Mr. Evangelos Moustakas (creator of the Alexander the Great statue on the Thessaloniki seafront).

Among those attending were: Minister of the Interior Mr. Takis Theodorikakos, former Prime Minister Mr. George Papandreou, Deputy Ministers of Culture & Sports Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis and of Education Ms. Sofia Zacharaki, Cyclades MP Ms. Aikaterini Monogyiou, the Ambassador of Japan Mr. Yasuhiro SHIMIZU with his wife Ms. Yoshimi SHIMIZU, Cultural Attaché Ms. Chiori Shintani, the Consul of Cuba Mr. Jose Oriol Marrrero Martinez (who also participated in the exhibition with photographs), the representative of Ms. Fofi Gennimata (PASOK President & Head of the Movement for Change), MP Mr. Dimitris Konstantopoulos, the Secretary General for Public Order Konstantinos Tsouvalas, the Mayor of Ancient Olympia Giorgos Georgiopoulos and Deputy Mayor for Technical Works Panag. Flessas, Dim. Kostarias (President of the Municipal Welfare Enterprise of Ancient Olympia), on behalf of the Hellenic Police the Commander of Y.F.A.A., Olympian in freestyle wrestling Heraklis Deskoulidis, the national coordinator of #BEACTIVE Dion. Karakasis, the Director of Athens 9.84 Niki Arampatzi, and Olympians: (award recipients) Spyros Gianniotis, Valerios Leonidis, Ioannis Melissanidis, and Stelios Mygiakis, as well as Pigi Devetzi, Voula Kozompoli (President of HSOA), Evi Moraitidou (President of the Hellenic Olympians Association), Dimitris Papanikolaou, Paralympian Giannis Kostakis, TAE KWON DO World Champion Maria Karpathaki, Sailing World Champion Konstantinos Tsigkaras, Deputy Director of the International Olympic Truce Centre Dora Palli, the President of the “Friends of the War Museum” and members Giorgos Tsoukalas and Giorgos Manikas, painter Thodoros Manolidis, art dealer Liana Skourli, President of the Eurasian Association Xenofon Lamprakis, publisher Dimitris Arnaoutis, Professor Ioanna Mastora, museologist Angelos Dendrinos, philology professor Aphrodite Gkenakou, criminologist Maria Kyriakopoulou, director Maria Tsaroucha (Member of the Union of Greek Physicists), friends of culture and sport, musician Alexandros Chachalis, and lawyers Dim. Chatzimichalis and Dim. Valasis.

The event was moderated and presented by journalists Chrysa Roumelioti and Spiridoula Irida Spanea.

The art exhibition and awards, as well as all actions scheduled for 2020 within the framework of the “Route of Truce 2020”, are organized by the Federation of Olympia, with co-organizers the Regions of Attica and Western Greece, the Municipalities of Ilida, Pyrgos and Ancient Olympia; Support Partner: the International Olympic Truce Centre; Institutional Support Bodies: the Municipality of Athens and the Municipality of Sparta; under the auspices of the Ministries of National Defence, Culture & Sports, Interior and Tourism; of the International Military Sports Council (CISM); the Hellenic Olympic Committee; the International Olympic Academy; GNTO; ETHNOA; the Hellenic Olympians Association; Technical Support Body: the Supreme Council for Sports in the Armed Forces (ASAED); and the Athens War Museum; with the support of #BEACTIVE; and media sponsors including ERT, Proto Programma, ERA SPORT, ERT Patras, ERT Pyrgou, the Panhellenic Sports Press Association (PSAT), RunningNews.gr, Athens 9.84, apopseis.gr, OVI magazine, GreekTeachers, Polis magazino.

In our effort to keep alive in our memory the history and values of our land, we would like to thank our Supporters for their backing and contribution, which greatly helps promote and achieve our mission: OPAP S.A., AMKE AIGEAS, Avance car rental, ANTAPODOTIKI Recycling of Packaging, FARGECO Hellas, Loux, Zagori, PAPADOPOULOU biscuits, Ethniki Asfalistiki, Merkouri Estate, ILIS pasta, Kalomoiris HLVIGAL, Agricultural Cooperative of Koryfi Ilia, Enosi Agrotwn Ilaias IKE, OESI, Bioilis.

The honoring of Greece’s Olympic wrestling medalists – The Trail of the Truce & its role in promoting Olympic Values

The athletes of wrestling who managed to raise the Greek flag high at the Olympic Games were honored in a special event by the Federation of Olympia, within the framework of its activities in view of the Truce Run from Ilida to Ancient Olympia, which this year is organized on April 22.

In an extremely moving atmosphere, special plaques were awarded to the Olympic medalists of Greco-Roman and Freestyle Wrestling: Stelios Mygiakis (gold, 1980), Petros Galaktopoulos (silver, 1972 and bronze, 1968), Dimitris Thanopoulos (silver, 1984), Babis Cholidis (bronze, 1984 and 1988), Amiran Kartanov (bronze, 2000), Artiom Kiouregkian (bronze, 2004) and Giorgos Chatzioannidis (bronze, 1980), during a one-day conference held on Wednesday, March 28 by the Federation of Olympia at the Hellenic War Museum, aiming to promote Olympic values, alongside a parallel art exhibition. The conference took place in honor of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace.

The event began with the screening of a short interactive video on the Truce and Greco-Roman Wrestling, created by Professor Dimosthenis Davvetas.

Subsequently, the President of the Federation of Olympia, Mrs Sofia Hintziou-Kontogianni, made extensive reference to the Organization’s actions already implemented and those planned for 2018 regarding “the Trail of the Truce”.

Within the framework of the event, the Director of the International Olympic Truce Center, international relations expert Konstantinos Filis, was honored for his contribution to promoting the value of the Truce, and in his address he stated:

In an issue with the complexities and difficulties of the Korean Peninsula, where regional and international interests are involved, major powers compete and the risk of nuclear escalation remains, the Winter Olympic Games offered the opportunity to the Republic of Korea (South Korea) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) to sit at the negotiating table after approximately two years. In a few weeks, in fact, the presidents of the two states will meet—an outcome that seemed unthinkable not long ago. The prevalence of the Olympic Truce provided both sides with the opportunity to realize the beneficial consequences of peace compared to the risk of maintaining any possibility of conflict. Regardless of the outcome, let us consider that if the temporal milestone of the PyeongChang Winter Olympic Games had not existed, it is likely that the joint South Korea–U.S. military exercises would not have been suspended, nor—much more so—would dialogue between Seoul and Pyongyang have begun.

The Mayor of Ilida, Mr Christos Christodoulopoulos (one of the three cities of antiquity that had signed the Truce), in his greeting noted:

Through the trail and the race held upon it, the true and substantive meaning of the Truce is given, contributing to connecting the institution with the modern world. Ilida, by establishing the Games, achieved something much greater than the simple creation of an institution. It succeeded in giving form and an ideological foundation to the ability of the then-known world to coexist for a few days, without weapons and without hostilities.

Today we must make the necessary compromises prescribed by the institution and stand against newly emerged realities such as xenophobia, intolerance and, more broadly, a violent mentality and way of life. We must bring forward concepts such as solidarity toward one’s fellow human being and toward what is different.

We must take initiatives—each one from their own position and with their own potential—so that the institution of the Truce may once again contribute to the Olympic Games, not as a necessary evil but as a mandatory given.

The Vice President of the Municipal Council of Ancient Olympia, Mrs Anna Papaioannou Georgakopoulou, conveyed the greeting of the Mayor of Olympia Mr Efth. Kotzas, and stressed:

Representing the place where, for 1,200 years, the Disc of Iphitos was safeguarded—on which the sacred truce was inscribed—I invite you to intensify our efforts so that we bridge the ancient with the modern, in an era when, more than ever, the necessity of creating a peaceful and better world is highlighted.

The Municipality of Ancient Olympia, recognizing the need to promote the ideals of Freedom, Democracy, solidarity, etc., and to pass them on to young people, works closely with the Federation of Olympia in a series of sporting and cultural events aimed at spreading the values of Olympism for a better world.

We look forward to welcoming you to Olympia during this critical period so that together we can send a strong Olympic message of peace and fraternity from the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Commander Spiros Andriopoulos, Director of ASAED, which has undertaken the technical support of the organization, referred to the necessity of the Truce and the contribution of all bodies toward achieving it.

Brigadier General Panagiotis Georgopoulos, First Vice President of the Hellenic War Museum, which graciously provided the venues for hosting the events, referred to the war preparation of the ancients through sport and emphasized that the War Museum strongly supports the efforts of the Federation of Olympia and the co-organizers of the “Trail of the Truce” events.

Art historian and curator of the art exhibition “En Olympia to Kalliston”, Mrs Annita Patsouraki, noted:

The “Federation of Olympia” dedicates the 3rd edition of the “Truce Run” with a vision to revive the route from Ilida to Olympia, focusing on the events of wrestling, boxing and pankration. The exhibition “En Olympia to Kalliston” draws inspiration from the words of the historian Philostratus and honors the sports of the strong, the warriors and the brave. Works of painting, printmaking, sculpture, mosaic, photography and a performance produced as video came together as an expression of collectivity. Arts and ideas—images that evoke Greekness and at the same time universality—become mediators between past and present. Artistic creations were produced specifically and by commission for the idea of the truce as well as for the above sports, seeking to express admiration and glory for the strength, the fortitude of soul and body of our worthy athletes. The “body” is praised as a means of expressing power, superiority and endurance.

With myths, legends and recorded histories, Kathimerini journalist Spyridoula Irida Spanea referred to 2,726 years of wrestling history in her talk titled “From Evryvatos to Kiouregkian”. Particular emotion was stirred in the audience by stories of the successes of Petros Galaktopoulos, Stelios Mygiakis, Dimitris Thanopoulos, Babis Cholidis and Giorgos Chatzioannidis, who won Olympic medals during the so-called “stone years” of Greek sport, as well as by the more recent successes of Amiran Kartanov and Artiom Kouregkian.

The Deputy Director of the International Olympic Truce Center, Mrs Dora Palli, spoke about the timeless principles and values expressed by Olympism that we have inherited from our ancestors:

Fair competition, equal participation, mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence of peoples and individuals, the truce, reconciliation between people and nations. Universal values. Values that existed, exist, and will exist.

Speaking of the Truce as an educational tool, she referred to the programs implemented by the Center, especially “I Respect Diversity”, stressing:

Olympism will be a source of inspiration and progress for modern Greece as well, at least in the way it moves and inspires the rest of the world, and should not remain merely a national stereotype, without being utilized to improve our society, our education, and the way we approach things.

Concluding, she announced that on Friday, April 20, the day before the “Truce Run”, on the “Trail of the Truce”, and in cooperation with the Federation of Olympia, the program “I Respect Diversity” will be implemented in the schools of Amaliada.

Dr Ioanna Mastora (PhD in Philosophy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, and Secretary General of the Center for Olympic Philosophy & Education) recited Pindar’s 8th Olympian Ode, for Alcimedon, winner in the boys’ event.

During the conference, the President of the Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE), Mr Giorgos Patoulis, was honored for his support of the “Truce Run”.

The conference was presented and moderated by ERT journalist Mrs Chrysa Roumelioti.

Among those present were: KEDE President G. Patoulis, Deputy Regional Governor of Western Greece Panos Bramos, President of the Association of Greek Olympians Voula Kozomboli, Olympians Vasilis Polymeros, Chrysa Biskitzi, Niki Bakogianni, Paralympian Thodoris Alexas, world champions Maria Christoforidi and Paraskevi Tsiamita, President of the Hellenic Wrestling Federation Dim. Trampakoulas, President of the Hellenic Association for Atlantic and European Cooperation G. Georgiou, representatives of sports and cultural associations, the Armed Forces and Security Corps, ASAED, journalist Antonis Panoutsos, and a large audience.

In the Museum foyer, an art exhibition titled “En Olympia to Kalliston” operated with works by renowned artists: Angelos, Paschalis Angelidis, Mina Valyraki, Eriet. Vordoni, Sp. Georgas, Christod. Galtemis, Olga Goulandri, G. Gourzis, Dim. Davvetas, Eva Divari, K. Evangelatos, N. Zivas, P. Zoumpoulakis, I. Karkavitsas, M. Kassis, Ang. Korovesi, M. Kourkoulou, M. Ktistopoulou, Ap. Lavdas, Kyr. Lazaridis, K. Mavrommatis, Alexandros and Evangelos Moustakas, Nadia Barakou, P. Pagkratidis, Ang. Panagiotidis, Al. Patseli, Ar. Patsoglou, Vag. Rinas, G. Roussis, K. Spyriounis, G. Stathopoulos, G. Tourkovasivlis, Ap. Fanakidis, V. Chormoviti, G. Chouliaras, Sof. Christou, D. Christogiannis.

The work “Metallaxi” (“Mutation”) was donated by painter Ioannis Karkavitsas to the collection of the Hellenic War Museum.

On April 21 and 22, 2018, the third “Truce Run” will take place in Ilia; as with the event itself, it is organized by the Federation of Olympia, co-organized with the Municipalities of Ilida and Ancient Olympia, with the Municipality of Sparta and the International Olympic Truce Center as supporting partners, under the auspices of the Ministries of National Defense and Tourism, CISM, NATO, the Hellenic Olympic Committee, the International Olympic Academy, the National Olympic Academy of Greece, the Association of Greek Olympians, the Hellenic Scouts, the Hellenic Association for Atlantic and European Cooperation, supported by PSAT and the War Museum, and with technical support by ASAED.

On Saturday, April 21, the opening ceremony will take place in Ancient Ilida, and the start will be given on Sunday, April 22, 2018, at 5:45 a.m. from Ancient Ilida (host city of the ancient Olympic Games). The finish will be in Ancient Olympia (site of the Games) at approximately 4:30 p.m. Around 500 runners have already registered.

The route is non-competitive, and all who successfully complete the full 49.8 km distance will be awarded unique numbered medals. Because what matters is not only the journey—just as with the Truce on the way to peace—but also completing it.

The Federation of Olympia’s activities are supported by: Ethniki Asfalistiki, Legea, AB Food Market Amaliada, Louxs, AUTOUNIT N. Poulakis SA, PIK Kininis, Ktima Merkouri, FARGECO Hellas, ILVIGAL Kalomoiri, PAPATHEODOROU Greek pistachio, Union of Cooperatives of Ilia–Olympia, LOURIDA Insurance, OESI Federation of Trade Associations of Ilia, DI.KE.P., the Volunteer Firefighting–Rescue Team of Vrachnaika, as well as the Volunteer Rescuer Firefighters Corps of the Municipality of Western Achaia.

Communication sponsors include: ERT, ERT 3, Proto Programma 91.6, ERA Spor 101.8, ERT Pyrgos, ORT, PATRIS, PSAT, The BEST, RUNNING NEWS.GR, We Love Sports, SPORTEVENT.GR, Apopseis.gr, The OVI, Greek Teachers, ILIDA Kampos News, HMG Hellas Web Radio, RNF.gr, patrisnews, ORT 24.7.

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The symbolic Route of Truce Pnyka–Kallimarmaro. Bridging the ancient with the modern,
with the aim of Truce and Peace

In an atmosphere of joy, optimism, and hope—and in full compliance with the approved
health protocol—the symbolic Route of Truce Pnyka–Kallimarmaro took place as part of the
Route of Olympic Truce 2020.

This symbolic route was led by the Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports
Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis, together with Olympic medalist
Spiros Gianniotis (who had been honored by the Sympoliteia of Olympia
for “Fair Play”), the holder of the Greek national marathon record and Director of ASAED,
Navy Captain Spiros Andriopoulos, the TAE KWON DO world champion
Maria Karpathaki, and Olympic medalists.
The runners started from Pnyka—the symbol of Democracy and free speech
(start at the Pnyka Fountain on Apostolou Pavlou Street)—and via Dionysiou Areopagitou,
Vasilissis Amalias, and the Zappeion, reached the Panathenaic Stadium, the symbol of the
modern Olympic Games. The route had no competitive character.

Participants included the Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports
Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis, the President of the Olympians
Ms. Evi Moraitidou, the President of the Hellenic Association of Olympic
Participants Ms. Voula Kozompoli, the Director of the International
Olympic Truce Centre Dr. Konstantinos Filis, the Deputy Director
Ms. Dora Palli, the Director of ASAED and CISM representative,
holder of the Greek national marathon record, Navy Captain
Spiros Andriopoulos, Olympic medalists
Spiros Gianniotis, Virginia Kravarioti, Dimitris Kaffatos,
Grigoris Chatzatourian, Nery Niangouara, Dimitris Miteloudis,
the President of ATHINA 9.84 and representative of the Mayor of Athens
Ms. Niki Arambatzi, TAEKWONDO world champion
Ms. Maria Karpathaki, the President of the Kung Fu Federation
Mr. Lambros Stamoulis, the President of the Sympoliteia of Olympia
Ms. Sofia Hintziou Kontogianni, former MP
Mr. Giorgos Kontogiannis, the President and Vice President of
Antapodotiki Recycling Mr. Ilias Moustairas and
Mr. Pavlos Ravanis, the President of the Ioniki Stegi Ilioupolis
Ms. Argyro Pikoula, painter Mr. Dimosthenis Davvetas,
sculptor Ms. Ioanna Paraskeva, actor
Panos Stathakopoulos, the grandson of the first Marathon runner
Mr. Charis Vasilakos, and runners who had participated in the
Route of Olympic Truce 2020 from Ancient Elis to Ancient Olympia.

Welcoming the runners and attendees, the President of the Sympoliteia of Olympia,
Ms. Sofia Hintziou Kontogianni, referred to the symbolic connection of
the Route of Truce with Pnyka and the Panathenaic Stadium, as well as to Pankratis
Herakles and the Athenian Olympic champions of antiquity, who followed their own Route
of Truce in order to participate in the Olympic Games at Ancient Olympia.

At the Panathenaic Stadium, children of the MILA Group of the
9th Primary School of Glyfada, together with Paralympic medalist
Ms. Eirini Kourouvani, presented a performance for peace, freedom,
and anti-bullying, choreographed by Ms. Nektaria Konstantinou.
Before the performance, student Alexandra P. delivered the message:

“We dance for Peace. We dance for freedom of expression and movement.
We dance for a new reality where the word ‘war’ will be unknown.
We dance so that Peace may prevail and to spread the message to our generation.
We dance and we hope. We hope that one day everything will end and change for the better…”

Subsequently, invited guests together with children and the MILA group
formed the Peace symbol in the square of the Panathenaic Stadium.

During the event, special plaques—created by sculptor
Mr. Evangelos Moustakas—were awarded by the Mayor of Elis,
the organizing city of the ancient Olympic Games, Mr. Giannis Lymperis, and
the Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis to
Alexandros Vamvakidis (Chief Warden) and
Nikolaos Karyotis (Navy Lieutenant Commander) for their participation
in the Route of Heracles (Agrapidoxori–Ancient Elis) and the Route of Olympic Truce
Ancient Elis–Ancient Olympia; to the Governor of Attica
Mr. Giorgos Patoulis for his continuous support of Olympic values and
the idea of Truce; to the President of the Hellenic Olympic Academy (ETHNOA)
Mr. Giorgos Alikakos; to the Director of #BEACTIVE
Mr. Dionysis Karakasis; to Paralympic medalist
Ms. Eirini Kourouvani, who led the MILA group; and to
Ms. Nektaria Konstantinou, who curated the children’s performance.

The event concluded with music by the Municipal Band of Athens,
performing songs for peace and for Athens. Young participants honored the runners and
attendees with a wild olive branch from Ancient Elis and Ancient Olympia,
bearing the Disc of Truce.

It should be noted that the approved health protocol, as authorized by the General
Secretariat of Sports, was strictly observed (50 runners and a limited number of
participants, physical distancing, use of antiseptics, masks, and gloves where
necessary).

All attendees received a certificate of participation, a commemorative t-shirt, and
products from the event sponsors.

The event was organized by the Sympoliteia of Olympia and co-organized with the Regions
of Attica and Western Greece, the Municipalities of Elis, Pyrgos, and Ancient Olympia,
with the International Olympic Truce Centre as the cooperating support body. It was held
under the auspices of the Ministries of National Defence, Culture & Sports, Interior,
and Tourism; the International Military Sports Council (CISM); the International Olympic
Academy (IOA); the Hellenic Olympic Committee; the Association of Greek Olympians; ETHNOA;
and the Hellenic Tourism Organisation. Institutional supporters included the
Municipalities of Sparta and Athens; technical support was provided by ASAED and the
War Museum; with the support of #BEACTIVE; communication sponsors included PSAT, ERT,
ERAsport, Proto Programma, ERT Patras, ERT Pyrgos, RunningNews.gr, ATHINA 9.84,
apopseis.gr, OVI, Greekteachers, Polismagazine, among others; and with the support of
OPAP S.A., AMKE AIGEAS, Avance Car Rental, Antapodotiki Recycling, FARGECO Hellas,
Louxs, Zagori, Papadopoulou Biscuits, D.I.K.E. Pyrgos, National Insurance, Mercouri
Estate, ILIS pasta, Kalomoiri HILVIGAL, the Agricultural Cooperative of Koryfi Ilia,
Union of Farmers of Ilia IKE, OESI, and Bioilis.

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