Ultramarathon Guide

Spartathlon

Spartathlon follows Pheidippides' route for 246 kilometers from Athens to Sparta, with 75 checkpoints and an unforgiving 36-hour overall limit.

Next raceSaturday, September 26, 2026
Distance categoryUltramarathon
LocationAthens, Greece

Marathon Scout prioritizes official race websites, registration pages, timing providers, results pages, and race-linked live tracking. Last updated July 17, 2026.

Spartathlon quick facts

  • The 246K Athens-to-Sparta route must be completed within 36 hours.
  • Qualification standards demand strong prior ultra performances before application.
  • Success requires meeting dozens of intermediate checkpoint cutoffs, not only the finish limit.

About the Spartathlon

Founded in 1983 after a modern test of Herodotus' account, Spartathlon is one of road ultrarunning's most historic and selective races.

Spartathlon course description

The route leaves the Acropolis for roads, tracks, vineyards, villages, and the nighttime crossing of Mount Parthenio before finishing at Leonidas' statue in Sparta.

Weather for the Spartathlon

Late September often starts hot on exposed roads, then cools sharply on Mount Parthenio overnight. Rain and wind can add to the mountain crossing.

Past Spartathlon dates and results

YearDateStatusResults
2026Saturday, September 26, 2026

Spartathlon FAQ

When is the Spartathlon?

The 2026 Spartathlon is on Saturday, September 26, 2026.

How do I register for the Spartathlon?

You can register for the Spartathlon at spartathlon.gr.

Race organizer or timing partner?

Send Marathon Scout an official race update

Share official dates, registration links, results, live tracking, course details, or claimed-profile updates. We review updates before they go live.

Include source links when you can.