On the occasion of the Athens Authentic Marathon, the Sports Excellence Department of the 1st Orthopedic Surgery Clinic of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), in collaboration with the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC), presents an open discussion titled “All About the Marathon” on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Book Castle of the SNFCC.
The event is made possible through the exclusive donation of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF).
Experienced coaches, top marathon champions, and scientific staff from Sports Excellence will share knowledge, experiences, and practical advice to help optimize your performance in road races.
Key topics will include training, race strategy, nutrition, recovery, and psychological preparation.
The event is dedicated to everyone preparing for the Athens Authentic Marathon, as well as for the 5 km and 10 km races.
Participation: Free admission on a first-come, first-served basis
Accessibility: Simultaneous interpretation in Greek Sign Language will be available.
Detailed Program
18:30–18:35
Welcome & Brief Presentation of the Event
Alexandra Koutsi, Communications Manager, Sports Excellence
18:35–18:40
Opening Speech – “Trust the Science”
Panagiotis Koulouvaris, Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery & Scientific Director, Sports Excellence
18:40–19:00
Presentation of the Certificate from the Australian Institute of Sport to Sports Excellence as an Accredited Partner
Fiona Dejong, Lead, European Training Centre for the Australian Institute of Sport
19:00–19:45
Scientific Insights | Key Barriers and How to Overcome Them
Moderator: Panagiotis Koulouvaris, Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery & Scientific Director, Sports Excellence
Barrier #1
“Enhance Your Mental Strength on Race Day”
Flora Papitsi, Sports Psychologist & Executive Director, Sports Excellence
Barrier #2
“Proven & Emerging Recovery Techniques”
Apostolos Skouras, Physiotherapist & Director of the Sports Excellence Lab
Barrier #3
“Optimize Your Nutrition Before & On Race Day”
Yiannis Arnaoutis, Assistant Professor – Sports Nutrition
19:45–20:30
Experiential Insights | Advice from the Experts
Moderator: Theodoros Daviotis, Director of Sports Programs, Sports Excellence
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Nikos Polias, Marathon Champion
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Dimitris Theodorakakos, Marathon Champion
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Matina Noula, Marathon Champion
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Gloria Privileggio, Marathon Champion
20:30–21:00
Audience Q&A & Closing Remarks