Santorini Experience 2026: More Than 3,600 Entries, Athletes From 42 Countries & a World-Class Podium

From Thursday 15 to Sunday 18 October, Santorini Experience 2026 turned Santorini into an open-air stadium above the Aegean. Olympians and amateurs shared the same start line, swimmers dived from the volcano, runners climbed to the rim of the Caldera, and the island’s children heard champions speak first-hand about dreams, hard work and values.

Santorini Experience 2026 recorded more than 3,600 entries across its races and its sporting, educational and entertainment activities. On the start line were athletes from 42 countries and four continents (Europe, the Americas, Asia and Oceania), with one in four travelling from abroad. Local residents also turned out in particularly strong numbers, embracing the event and celebrating it as their own. Participants ranged from 1 to 72 years of age, 56% men and 44% women. The event also left a strong footprint on the island’s tourism, generating more than 2,000 overnight stays in 38 Santorini hotels over four nights, every one of them a hospitality sponsor of the event.

For the 12th year running, the event proved that sport can be the most authentic way to discover a place. Between music-filled evenings, culinary discoveries and the warm hospitality of the island’s people, Santorini Experience 2026 brought down the curtain on an edition that left behind memories far beyond stopwatches and rankings.

Santorini Experience 2026 did not simply bring big names to Santorini; it brought 44 international medals in running and swimming, along with a Super Bowl ring and a EuroLeague title.

In open water swimming, a tally of 38 medals was led by Germany’s Leonie Beck, a three-time world champion with 11 medals from World and European Championships. Alongside her were Italy’s Barbara Pozzobon with 8 medals, Hungary’s Anna Olasz with 7, Georgia Damasioti, Caroline Jouisse and Mario Sanzullo with 3 each, the Netherlands’ Marcel Schouten with 2, and Japan’s Yasunari Hirai, 2017 Asian champion and two-time Olympian.

In athletics, Antigoni Ntrismpioti, double European champion at Munich 2022, was joined by a unique family story: Periklis Iakovakis, 2006 European champion and 2007 World Championships bronze medalist in the 400m hurdles, and his daughter Eleni Iakovaki, the 17-year-old European U18 champion in the 400m, holder of the Greek national record of 52.38 and bronze medalist at this year’s World U20 Championships. Father and daughter, with four international medals between them, provided one of the event’s most striking images: two generations of champions on the same island.

Completing the picture were Stevan Ridley, Super Bowl XLIX champion with the New England Patriots; EuroLeague legend Joe Arlauckas, 1995 European champion with Real Madrid; and Olympian Evina Maltsi, all-time top scorer of the Greek women’s national basketball team.

Two wins decided by less than a second, double podium finishes and performances ranking among the best in the event’s history defined the racing programme of Santorini Experience 2026.

Stylianos Drosos won the 15 km powered by The North Face for the fourth time, adding 2026 to his victories of 2016, 2018 and 2019 – and in a thrilling finish, just six tenths of a second separated him from the runner-up. He also claimed the inaugural Sandblu Ancient Thera 5km, setting the first course record at 20:17, while his 18:19 from 2022 remains the event record over 5 km.

The 2.4 km swim was just as dramatic. France’s Caroline Jouisse took first place overall, ahead of both men and women, in 30:29, edging out Yasunari Hirai by eight tenths of a second in another race decided quite literally on the line.

In the women’s 5 km, Eleni Iakovaki returned to the top of a distance in which she already holds the women’s record, 23:38 from 2022.

Also standing out were Klaudia Namyslik from Baden-Baden, Germany, who won the women’s 15 km in 1:22:25, the second-fastest winning time in the race’s history, and Elina Arapidou, who took the women’s 10 km in 1:02:25, the third-fastest winning time over that distance.

Denmark’s Janne Holstein Pehrson celebrated two podium finishes, winning the women’s Sandblu Ancient Thera 5km and placing second in the women’s 15 km.

Finally, internationally renowned ultramarathon runner Konstantinos Dean Karnazes completed three races – at times alone, at times alongside fellow ultramarathoner Jo Manta and their newborn – crossing the finish line in the Sandblu Ancient Thera 5km, the 15 km powered by The North Face and the 5 km “Aristidis Alafouzos” powered by Miele.

The programme opened in the most meaningful way, with talks held with the support of the MOTODYNAMICS Group. On Thursday 15 October at Mesaria Junior High School and on Friday 16 October at the Bellonio Cultural Centre in Fira, the Group’s ambassadors met primary, junior high and senior high school students from the Municipality of Thira and shared experiences that no textbook can teach.

Antigoni Ntrismpioti and Youth Olympic javelin champion Elina Tzengko spoke about perseverance, sacrifice and the joy of success, showing the children that every great achievement begins with a small, everyday step. Olympian and two-time European champion basketball player Dimitris Papanikolaou focused on the power of diversity and inclusion, reminding them that a team wins when there is room for everyone. Motorsport coach Thanasis Chountras put safe road behavior in the spotlight, a vital message for the drivers of tomorrow. The meetings confirmed that sport remains one of the most powerful sources of inspiration for the younger generation.

Kamari hosted the two new races of the year, both starting from Sandblu Santorini. In the Sandblu Ancient Thera 5km, run along the waterfront beneath the archaeological site of Ancient Thera, winner Stylianos Drosos was followed home by Stylianos Noulas and Christos Soultatis. In the women’s race, Janne Holstein Pehrson led home Marsha Dunkel and Anna Olasz, who briefly traded water for land and proved that great athletes know no limits.

Meanwhile, the Sandblu 5km Kamari Coast Pet Run produced some of the most heart-warming moments of the four days, as owners and their four-legged friends strolled along the shore together, in a race where company, not the clock, had the final say.

At the Sandblu Ancient Thera 5km, athletic effort was paired with a second, equally meaningful goal: building more responsible choices into the design and delivery of a road race. With Sandblu Santorini, LXR Hotels & Resorts by Hilton as its point of reference, the event connected sport and hospitality with practices that brought sustainability within reach of every participant, through the objects and experiences that accompanied each step.

Race bibs were printed on seed paper, so runners could plant them after the race and turn the memento of their effort into new life. The medals carried a similar symbolism, crafted from discarded materials: objects that had reached the end of one life cycle returned as symbols of participation, perseverance and reward – at once a keepsake of the finish and a tangible example of how we can give new purpose to things we usually consider useless. T-shirts made from 100% recycled materials, reusable 100% cotton bags and a recycling programme at the start and finish completed the approach, making waste management part of the race’s everyday operation.

The same philosophy shaped the refreshments and the atmosphere. Seasonal local fruit and fresh juices gave athletes a flavourful connection with local produce, while the music gave creative expression to the idea of reuse: barrels became drums, framing the rhythm set by two DJs. A solar generator covering part of the energy needs added a further dimension to the event’s environmental design. From bib to medal, and from refreshments to music, the Sandblu Ancient Thera 5km showed how a race can double as a hands-on lesson, leaving people with vivid memories and useful ideas about their relationship with the environment.

The waters of the Caldera hosted the event’s most iconic race. Swimmers dived from the volcano for the 1.5-mile (2.4 km) crossing to the Old Port of Fira, on a course designed by technical director Nikos Gemelos with the help of Italian coach Fabrizio Antonelli, 2021 “Coach of the Year” and the man behind the rise of Gregorio Paltrinieri.

Participant safety was the top priority, thanks to the coordinated work of the Port Authority, the Thira Port Fund, Geothira, Lifeguard Patrol, Caldera Yachting, the Santorini Nautical Club, the Santorini Boatmen’s Union, the Municipal Water Supply and Sewerage Company of Thira (DEYATH), the Loula and Evangelos Nomikos Foundation, the Thira Volunteer Rescue Corps, the Thira Police Department, the Municipal Police and Health Spot. From ferrying the swimmers to the volcano to monitoring every metre of the course, they took care of every detail so that everyone could swim with confidence and enjoy the Caldera without a worry. All swimmers wore an individual safety buoy and were escorted by boats throughout.

The podium was worthy of the event; it is rare to see so many leading figures of open water swimming share the top places in a single race. Alongside Caroline Jouisse, the women’s podium was completed by Barbara Pozzobon and Georgia Damasioti, an athlete supported by VIKOS Natural Mineral Water, who gave the Greek public a moment of real pride. In the men’s race, Yasunari Hirai confirmed his bond with Santorini, claiming victory for the third time after 2019 and 2025, with Marcel Schouten second and Thomas Bousgas third.

The finale was written on the trail that links Oia with Fira, with the start and finish at the Desalination Plant.

The 15 km powered by The North Face lived up to its reputation as the event’s most demanding and most spectacular challenge. Runners set off from the Caldera and tackled climbs and descents across striking volcanic terrain, with the Aegean spread out before them at every step. They passed the chapel of Profitis Ilias, crossed picturesque Imerovigli and reached the entrance to Fira at the church of Agios Gerasimos before returning to the start: a true outdoor experience in which the intensity of the volcanic land met the singularity of the landscape, a setting that perfectly reflects the spirit of exploration and connection with nature at the heart of The North Face’s philosophy.

With the same intensity, the 10 km powered by SIXT, member of MOTODYNAMICS Group gave runners an adrenaline-filled run along the edge of the Caldera, while the 5 km “Aristides Alafouzos” powered by Miele opened the route to every fitness level, running or power walking.

Whatever the distance or the time, everyone shared the same feeling. Smiles at the finish line, photos against the deep blue, hugs and words of encouragement between strangers who became companions within a few kilometres: these were the images that defined this year’s finale. Because in Santorini, every finish is a small victory.

The winners did not leave empty-handed. In the swim, prizes were provided by 42K, SportAdore and Spanou Jewelry, while in the running races the awards came with gifts from Spanou Jewelry, SportAdore and OAKBERRY.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of honorary awards to Joe Arlauckas, Evina Maltsi, Periklis Iakovakis, Stevan Ridley, Nikos Gemelos and Fabrizio Antonelli, six figures who have each left their mark on sport. Created by marble sculptor Grigoris Kouskouris and Othen Elemental Aesthetics, the awards carry the artistic signature and identity of the island, a lasting “thank you” for all they have given to sport.

The nights of Santorini Experience had a pulse of their own. At Marilyn Bar, the party of DJ Junior Rush powered by VIKOS COLA set the tone for what was to follow. With an unerring instinct for reading his crowd, Junior Rush delivered an energy-packed set, moving effortlessly from groovy sounds to heavier beats and keeping the dance floor in constant motion. Refreshing sips of VIKOS COLA, smiles, dancing and a crowd from every corner of the world came together for a night with an unmistakable summer vibe in the middle of October.

In the grounds of the Metropolitan Cathedral in Fira, renowned DJ Vassilis Tsilichristos turned the panorama of the Caldera into the backdrop of an unforgettable party attended by thousands. With his refined style and the sound that made his name, he blended his music with the colours of the sky, taking the audience on a journey that lasted until the very last note. The evening opened with a live performance by Angela “S”, and Bombay Sapphire accompanied the music with fine cocktails and its iconic Gin & Tonic, adding a touch of elegance to a night that will stay with everyone who was there. The event was supported by AESTIAN Philoxenia & Hospitality, the Thira Municipal Community and Rizes Gastro Taverna.

At Santorini Experience 2026, getting to know the island continued beyond the race routes, through a programme linking sport with gastronomy, wine and cultural heritage. The volcanic landscape that framed the races gave way to the flavours and wines of the same land, weaving a single narrative about the place and its people. Guests dined at Rizes Gastro Taverna, under the creative signature of Executive Chef Alexandros Makropoulos and Head Chef Maria Sylla; at Alati at Vedema, with Executive Chef Rafail Tsakiris; and at Nectar at Sandblu and Blu Restaurant in Imerovigli, part of the same group, with chefs Thymios Kolas and Panagiotis Boufis. Miele and Sandblu also presented a special wine-tasting experience at Blu, attended by guests, Olympians and journalists, highlighting the Santorini vineyard as an integral part of the island’s identity. Around the table, athletes, partners and media had the chance to share experiences and discover Santorini through its hospitality. The partnership with the “D. Nomikos” Tomato Industrial Museum completed the connection, shedding light on the productive heritage and history of an iconic local product. The event thus demonstrated in practice how sports tourism can bring visitors closer to the everyday life, flavours and culture of a destination, creating bonds that last long after the finish line.

The volcanic soul of Santorini unfolded in every glass at “Volcanic Stories – A Santorini Wine Tasting”. Guests journeyed through four labels – Inspire Cuvée Privée by Venetsanos Winery, Santorini by Estate Argyros, Nykteri by Mikra Thira and Vinsanto by Gavalas Winery – discovering the minerality, salinity and character that volcanic soil gives to wine, in an experience that added a note of finesse and pleasure to the event.

For many, the journey began in the clouds with SKY express, Official Airline Sponsor of the event and the Greek carrier with the youngest fleet in the country and one of the youngest in Europe. With nine daily flights from Athens and an extensive international network, the airline brought athletes, companions and friends of the event within a breath of the Caldera.

On the ground, SIXT, member of MOTODYNAMICS Group and Premium Mobility Partner of the event, made every journey around Santorini part of the overall experience. With its modern, premium fleet, it provided participants with comfortable and safe transport, from the start line in Kamari to the trail in Oia, so that they reached their destinations rested and stress-free, ready to take on the challenge and make the most of every moment.

Stoiximan’s second year as Silver Sponsor of Santorini Experience left its own mark. With a long-standing presence alongside teams, events and athletes across the country, Stoiximan this year stood beside every runner and swimmer, proving that support for sport is not confined to big stadiums and television broadcasts. Its choice to associate its name with an event that brings together sport, nature and culture reflects a vision of sport with room for everyone, from Olympians to amateurs testing themselves for the first time.

Its presence in Santorini highlighted the value of amateur sport, where taking part matters more than winning. The runner finishing a race for the first time, the group of friends swimming together from the volcano, the local resident turning an everyday route into a race: they are the heart of the event Stoiximan chose to support, and in their small, personal victories lies the true essence of sport – effort, perseverance and joy. Through Stoiximan Nation, the company also offered one winner the chance to experience the entire event first-hand, free of charge.

On Sunday afternoon, the adventure continued off the tarmac. With the support of Santo Line Tours, Official Travel Agency of the event, the Black Trails Santorini Off-Road Experience took guests along dirt tracks and into hidden corners of Santorini, where the volcanic landscape reveals itself in its rawest form.

OAKBERRY, Partner of the event, brought freshness and energy throughout the four days. Its bowls of açaí, the antioxidant-rich purple fruit of the Amazon, proved an ideal choice before exertion and a delicious way to recover after the finish, with participants enjoying a 20% discount at its store on the island. OAKBERRY also rewarded the men’s and women’s winners of the 15 km with free meals for a whole year at its stores, a prize that will remind them of Santorini with every bowl.

A steadfast ally of the event, Trace ‘n Chase was once again on board as Sports Memorabilia Partner, bringing to Santorini Experience the allure of collectible memorabilia that keeps the great moments of sport alive.

Santorini Experience 2026 has come to an end, but its story continues. The organisers warmly thank the athletes, the volunteers from the University of Piraeus, the sponsors, the partners and the island’s residents, who once again made Santorini run, swim and celebrate together, and look forward to the next meeting with the Caldera.

Premium Mobility Partner of the event was SIXT, member of MOTODYNAMICS Group.

Gold Sponsors of the event were Sandblu Santorini and AESTIAN Philoxenia & Hospitality.

Official Airline Sponsor was SKY express.

Official Trail Running Shoe was The North Face.

Silver Sponsors of the event were Stoiximan and Miele.

Official Water was VIKOS Natural Mineral Water.

Bronze Sponsor of the event was Blue Star Ferries.

Official Technical T-shirt was 42K Running.

Official Travel Agency was Santo Line Tours.

Official Skincare Partner of the event was EMÉNNA.

Partners of the event were OAKBERRY, Bombay Sapphire and Caldera Yachting.

Volunteer Sponsor was McDonald’s.

Official Sports Store of the event was Alafouzos Sport.

Official Supporters were Othen Elemental Aesthetics, Vacation Into Premium, “D. Nomikos” Tomato Industrial Museum, Empiria Group and Lifeguard Patrol.

Jewelry Partner was Spanou Jewelry.

Sports Memorabilia Partner was Trace ‘n Chase.

Helpers of the event were the Thira Municipal Community, Marilyn Bar Santorini and Health Spot.

Educational Partner of the event was the University of Piraeus.

The following hotels supported Santorini Experience 2026: Sandblu Santorini, Athina Luxury Suites, NOŪS Santorini, Empiria Group (Vedema, A Luxury Collection Resort Santorini), Katikies Garden Santorini, Santo Collection Resorts & Villas, Apeiron Blue, Canaves Collection, 270 Oia’s View, Lydia’s House, Coco-Mat Hotel Santorini, Aqua Vista Hotels, Agave Santorini Design Boutique Hotel, Holiday Beach Resort, Meltemi Suites, Meltemi Village, Atlantis Beach, Eteoro Suites Santorini, The Majestic Hotel Santorini (Kord Hotels), Thimari Lodge, Rocabella Santorini, K & K Unique Holiday Homes, Loizos Stylish Residences, Santorini Heart Hotel & Spa, Sea Sound White Katikies, The Muses of Santorini Suites, Kalisti Hotel & Suites, Phaos Santorini Suites, Santo Mangata, Aressana Spa Hotel & Suites, Fanouris Condo, Mon Signor, Epavlis Hotel, Blue Spa Santorini, Golden Grey Goose, Orama Hotel & Spa, Venus Sunrise Suites & Villas, Sienna Eco Resort.

The event took place under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism and the Greek National Tourism Organisation.

Santorini Experience is co-organized by the Municipality of Thira, the Department of Sports and Culture of the Municipality of Thira and ActiveMedia Group.

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