The 13th Athens Half Marathon is taking place on Sunday, March 9, 2025, drawing approximately 25,000 runners of all ages across various race categories. The starting and finishing point is Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) opposite the parliament building, with participants covering a newly designed, more accessible route aimed at helping both elite and amateur runners achieve their best performances.
This year’s event is dedicated to the memory of the renowned Greek composer Mikis Theodorakis. Organized by SEGAS in collaboration with the Municipality of Athens and supported by the Attica Region, the Athens Half Marathon has grown into one of the most prestigious races in its category.
Parallel Championships Add Prestige
In addition to the main half marathon race, the event also hosts the 16th Panhellenic Half Marathon Championship, which will determine this year’s national champions, as well as the Balkan Half Marathon Championship. Representing Greece in these competitions are Nikos Stamoulis, Charalambos Pitsiolis, Anastasia Marinakou, and Stamatia Noula.
The championship races started at 8:30 am, with the participation of approximately 10,000 half marathon runners.
Race Start and Logistics
The half marathon began at 8:30 am from Vasilissis Amalias Avenue near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where participants will also complete their run.
To ensure a smooth flow, runners were divided into five waves, with the national championship athletes taking the front row.
Athletes using hand-cycles had a dedicated start at 8:25 am, followed by staggered starts for the remaining waves every three minutes, ensuring all participants set off efficiently. Organizers anticipate that all runners will cross the finish line by 11:45 am.
Later in the day, the 5K road race will begin at 12:00 pm from Filellinon Street in Syntagma Square. Competitors will follow a route through Stadiou Street before finishing on Vasilissis Amalias Avenue in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Participants will also be divided into waves, with the final wave scheduled to start at 12:30 pm, and the race will conclude by 1:30 pm.
Family Run: Encouraging Young Athletes
An additional highlight of the event is the “Family Run,” starting at 11:45 am on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue, near the Officers’ Club of the Armed Forces, and finishing in Syntagma Square.
The race is open to children in the first five grades of elementary school (born between 2014 and 2018) accompanied by adult guardians. To ensure an orderly race, there will be separate starts: one at 11:45 am for fourth and fifth graders, another at 11:48 am for first to third graders, and a final start at 11:52 am for participants from Special Olympics Hellas and athletes with disabilities.
Traffic Restrictions for Athens Half Marathon
Meanwhile, Athens authorities have announced traffic regulations and alternative routes for drivers to reach their destinations during the Half Marathon.
According to the official statement, there will be a temporary and gradual suspension of vehicle circulation—including bicycles and personal mobility devices—as well as a ban on parking and stopping from 7:00 am to 2:00 pm. These restrictions will apply to key avenues, streets, and squares within the Municipality of Athens, where the event will take place.
Motorists are advised to plan their journeys accordingly and follow the recommended detours to avoid delays.
