Spartathlon
Spartathlon follows Pheidippides' route for 246 kilometers from Athens to Sparta, with 75 checkpoints and an unforgiving 36-hour overall limit.
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.
Course
The route leaves the Acropolis for roads, tracks, vineyards, villages, and the nighttime crossing of Mount Parthenio before finishing at Leonidas' statue in Sparta.
Race-day weather
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
| Year | Date | Status | Results |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, September 26, 2026 | Upcoming | — |
Spartathlon FAQ
When is the Spartathlon?
The 2026 Spartathlon is on Saturday, September 26, 2026.
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