On Sunday, 4 October 2026, the great celebration of sport and culture, the “International Crete Half Marathon – Arkalochori, Heraklion”, will take place once again.

After a decade filled with success, emotion and unique sporting moments, the event returns refreshed, having established itself as an important sporting institution for Crete.

This year’s Half Marathon was presented today, Thursday, at a press conference held at the Region of Crete, attended by the Deputy Regional Governor of Crete Giorgos Pitsoulis, the Deputy Regional Governor of Heraklion Nikos Syrigonakis, the Mayor of Minoa Pediada Vasilis Kegeroglou, the Councillor for Education and Sports Stefanos Psyllakis, and the President of the Health Sports Association Giorgos Alevyzakis.

The event includes:

• the 21.1-kilometre Half Marathon,
• 10 km and 5 km road races,
• the 1,000-metre children’s race,
• as well as a 200-metre race for people with disabilities.

Interest in this year’s event has been particularly strong, with registrations, which have already closed, exceeding 6,000 runners from 52 countries. In fact, the number of international athletes travelling to Arkalochori is approaching 1,000, giving the race a strong international character.

Special mention was made during the press conference of the 750 volunteers, whose contribution is crucial to the success of the event. The participants publicly expressed their thanks to the volunteers, as well as to the cultural associations, local professionals and all the organisations that have consistently supported the International Crete Half Marathon over the years.

The Crete Half Marathon has now become a major celebration of participation, sport, volunteering, culture and openness, promoting Crete both in Greece and abroad.