Greece's Santorini Experience wins gold at 2020 Tourism Awards

ATHENS – Santorini Experience on the volcanic island of Cyclades, highlighting sports, culture, unique architecture, and history, will be held for the 6th consecutive year October 2-4. Santorini Experience will attract professional and amateur athletes for another year and promote sports and Santorini as a destination, while respecting the environment and the island's traditional architecture. This year's races will adopt an eco-friendly approach, with a strategy that involves plastic-free and environmentally friendly initiatives.

Run with a stunning view of the Caldera

On Saturday, October 3, participants will run on the Caldera, overlooking the enchanting images of the volcano and the background scenery of Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Oia. Specifically, the 10 km route is geared toward runners with experience in distances, while the 15 km route “Aristides Alafouzos” is ideal for those who love strength, endurance, and adrenaline. All routes start from the desalination plant in Oia and finish in Oia. The breathtaking routes are designed by the former marathon runner, Greek classic route record holder, running trainer and director of All About Running, Nikos Polias.

Swim in the unparalleled volcanic landscape

On Sunday, October 4, participants will swim from the volcano to the old port of Fira, with the impressive view of the island in front of them, in the 1.5 miles open water swimming race (2.4 km). The event will look after all athletes by adding the high-quality safety lifeguard buoy, giving them an extra motive to choose Santorini Experience. The swimming route will be held, as every year, with absolute safety in the captivating waters of Santorini, where the average water temperature in October, reaches 20-22 degrees Celsius [about 68-71 degrees F]. Lifeguard Patrol's specialized lifeguards and lifeboats will contribute to the safety of the race again this year. Different categories will be formed depending on the final number of entries, while a separate category for those wearing wetsuits will be added. The race will be held under the technical direction of Greek national swimming coach with Olympic and World Championship distinctions, Nikos Gemelos, with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, according to FINA regulations.

At the forefront of the 2020 Tourism Awards for the first time

The event that has already been distinguished in the past in Greece and abroad with an international award at the Travel & Hospitality Awards, the Ermis Awards, and the Sports Marketing Awards, conquered for the first time a top position at the 2020 Tourism Awards. Specifically, the successful sports tourism event won the Gold Award in the category of Sea Tourism for implementing its innovative initiatives.

In the context of this year's award, Santorini Mayor Antonios Sigalas said, “The award given to the event of Santorini Experience by the acclaimed Tourism Awards institution, is an exceptional honorary distinction for Santorini. Our Municipality implements a Complete Plan for the Management of Santorini's Destination, having adopted the strategy of sustainable development with emphasis on the protection of the natural and man-made environment, the emergence of our cultural wealth, innovation, and quality of infrastructure. Our recognition by a tourism excellence institution, such as the Tourism Awards, strengthens the brand of Santorini, reinforces the island's position among the world's top destinations and motivates us to continue our actions in the field of quality tourism.”

The President of the Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) Vassilios Alafouzos noted that “this award belongs to all citizens of Santorini that have embraced the event. On our behalf, we will support any effort that fosters sports and promotes Greek tourism.”

Register today for the 15km “Aristides Alafouzos” and 10km running routes, as well as the 1.5 miles swimming route and take advantage of the early bird prices with a 25% discount. The offer is valid until July 31. The event, always prioritizing the participants themselves, offers a refund of their registration costs until August 31.

Registration link: https://www.myrace.gr/event/2408/registrations.html

The top sports tourism event Santorini Experience is expected to support, this year more than ever, Santorini's sports tourism during the month of October through a number of actions.

As every year, the event will be held in accordance with the strict standards set by the Greek Ministry of Tourism, the General Secretariat of Sports and all relevant sports Federations. Santorini Experience will be planned and delivered based on the protocol of races, which will ensure public health and safety of all parties involved.

The safety and health of all participants remains its main priority.

Santorini Experience is co-organized by the Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS), and Active Media Group.

More information is available online:www.santorini-experience.com.

Read more at thenationalherald.com

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