Athens International Triathlon
October 20, 2001
1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run
Race Website

The ancient city of Athens richly steeped in history, where art is life and home of the Olympics will host the first Athens International Triathlon this weekend - 20 October 2001.The event will be held at the beachside resort of Vouliagmeni

The race will start at 9:30am when athletes will dive into the crystal waters of Vouliagmeni for a 1500m swim, followed by a testing 40km cycle which features some challenging hills as does the 10km run with approximately an 8% gradient. In stark contrast to this however the international athletes will be treated to some of the most spectacular scenery.

The Hellenic Triathlon Federation have worked closely with the ITU in establishing the event as this will be the city to host the 2004 Olympic Games triathlon. In fact they have presented Michel Gignoux (ITU), Technical Director for the 2004 Olympic Games triathlon, the keys to a brand new office offered by the municipality of Vouliagmeni.

The organisers have had a great response from the Greek triathlon community and this is reflected in the many entries received from locals and internationals alike.

The Greeks are expected to turn out in force to cheer on one of their own, Vasili Krommidda whom they will look towards for glory. Will Athena, the goddess of wisdom and knowledge and from where Athens took it's name smile on the local athletes as they strive to make their mark on home soil?

They will face stiff competition though, also lining up will be the two big men from the Ukraine, Andrey Glushenko, currently ranked 12th, and fresh from a win in the Mitilini International Race along with Vladimir Polikarpenko, who also comes into this event on a high after winning the recent Palermo International Triathlon. They will face the flying Frenchmen Stephane Poulat and Frank Bignet who will be out to upset their winning ways.

On the women's side Spanish stars Ana Burgos and Maribel Blanco will be there, along with French team-mates Stephanie Gros and Natalie Daumas.